How do I color candle wax?
Short answer
Use oil-soluble ('F') or mixed ('F+P') candle dyes, crayons, mica or natural colorants, added gradually. Never use water-based paints.
Explanation
Oil-soluble 'F' dyes are transparent and bright and don't affect the burn. Pigment 'P' dyes give deeper color but can clog the wick. Mixed 'F+P' combine both. Gouache, watercolor and ink separate into flakes. Natural colorants (turmeric, cocoa, coffee, beet juice, henna) give soft pastels but are uneven and pH-sensitive.
Color sets about one shade lighter than it looks in liquid wax. Add solid dyes at 70–80 °C and liquid dyes at 55–60 °C.
What to do
- Test each dye with your wax: 3–4 drops for a light shade, 5–7 for a stronger one.
Source: The Big Book of Sweet Dessert Candles — Wax Dyes · Organic / Natural Candle Dyes · Inorganic Candle Dyes · Using Candle Dyes