I'm thinking about getting one of these to melt my soya wax inhttp://www.amazon.co.uk/PLIMCO-LTD-5712040154-Beka-Marie/dp/B000EBFK0U/ref=tag_dpp_lp_edpp_img_in

Has anyone got one of these? are they any good for candle making?

Looks interesting

I like the look of it but it doesn't mention capacity unless I can't see it (very possible  :mwaha:)

About 1.7L

http://www.beka-cookware.com/cookware/product/78/bain-marie

 

It's very like the one Which Thornes (bee stuff) have on site - down at the bottom of this page (doesn't give capacity either)

Thanks kes! I was going to google it later but you beat me to it

tbh I don't think there is much difference to using a pot/pan with a glass bowl or jug at that size

Thornes (see above) have some large wax melters for candle makers and melting beeswax down to cast slabs.

Whenever I try using a pan there always seems to make a mess and the way I do it is pretty dangerous. hmmm. I need to re-think or just go for the bain marie. How does everyone melt wax? surely there must be a safe double boiler way I just haven't tried yet.

For creams and small runs of melts I use a salon waxpot.

For larger amounts I use a double boiler (bought as such).

For waxed paper flowers (haven't made any for years) I use an old crockpot.

Elaine, do you reckon It's more woth whole getting a double boiler than a bain maire?

Are you dipping or pouring?

Double boiler (two pans which fit to gether - also called bain marie) has the advantage for pouring of either pan-handle long enough to hold with two hands or a grab handle either side.

I'm pouring.
So, I think I'll get a double boiler then. Thanks for helping me out

I wouldn't get anything made of glass to melt wax in... It takes toooo long and the glass gets far too hot to manipulate safely and control the temperature. Double boilers have the problem that they don't tend to have a groove to help you pour which means you risk emptying it out onto the counter and spilling when filling tart moulds etc. and it's hard to be exact.

I use an aluminium pouring jug from here: http://www.devonscents.co.uk/ourshop/cat_101302-CANDLE-MAKING-ACCESSORIES.html

They haven't get any at the moment but you can get them in lots of places. You just sit them in a pan of boiling water over the stove. I really like it because it's really quick to melt but temperature is easily controllable. It has a stay-cool handle and pouring spout to make it extra user-friendly too!

Kevin x

I imagine a catering equipment company would sell something similar - try here .

Thanks for those links! they're going to come in handy. In the end I bought a similar pouring jug off ebay. Right now I'm halfway through making candles, in the waiting stage. I'll post pics later on.