Cement Candle using 3D Printed Mold

thingiverse

## **Introduction** I published a video on my YouTube channel that showcases how to use these parts. I recommend watching the video to understand their intended purpose, although I'll try to explain it here as well. --- ## **Specifications** The dimensions of each part are specified by the size of its inner cavity, which determines what type of wick you should use. However, don't get too hung up on wick sizes, as they won't make a significant difference for most users. For reference, I used a 3mm diameter wick. There are three candle sizes to choose from: 50x50x50mm, 75x75x75mm, and 100x100x100mm, with outer dimensions of 60x60x60mm, 85x85x85mm, and 110x110x110mm. --- ## **What to Print?** One mold consists of three parts: two sides and one bottom. I added my logo to the wall of one side. If you don't want my logo in the cast, simply print the plain side twice, as the walls are symmetrical. The "Bottom" part of the mold is disposable; you'll need to break it when demolding! --- ## **Bill of Materials** * Cement or plaster (any brand will do) * Optional: sand or small rocks to mix with the cement * Paraffin wax or beeswax * Wick (I used a 3mm diameter wick) * Tools (3D printer, sandpaper, x-acto knife...) The overall price is approximately €5-10 per candle. This can be reduced by using paraffin wax. --- ## **Making the Candles** Some of the following steps may be difficult to understand. If that's the case, I suggest watching my video about it on YouTube. 1. Print all three pieces of the mold. 2. Sand the inner surfaces down with 180-400 grit sandpaper. 3. Apply vaseline or vegetable oil to the inner surfaces of the mold. 4. Secure the mold together using tape or rubber bands. 5. Mix cement with water until it reaches a pourable consistency. 6. Once the cement starts to set (after approximately one hour), scrape off any excess cement to smooth it out. 7. Let the cement cure for 24 hours, depending on the type of cement used. 8. Demold the candle; be aware that the "Bottom" part is disposable and must be broken. 9. Allow the candle to dry for at least 24 hours or place it in a low-temperature oven (50°C) for a few hours. 10. Slowly melt the required amount of beeswax. 11. Optional: Preheat the form to approximately 50°C to reduce the risk of cracking. 12. Hang the wick into the mold using something like a pencil. 13. Fill the mold with beeswax. 14. Optional: When the wax cools, it may shrink; if necessary, top it off with more wax.