How To Use A Presto Pot Wax and Soap Melter

Presto Melters are used to make candles, to make soap, and to make artificial bait.

What is a Presto Pot Wax Melter?

A Presto Melter is a direct heat melter. Another method of melting wax uses indirect heat, via a double-boiler.

Why do people prefer a Presto Melter over a double-boiler?

Convenience
- Using a double-boiler requires more parts, including: an outer unit (usually a pot), water, a thermometer, wax melting vat. A Presto Pot Wax Melter is a self-contained melting unit.
Portability
- The presto melter can be setup easily and then stored (out of sight) when not in use. In addition, a stove top double-boiler can result in a REALLY messy stove.

How to use a Presto Pot Wax Melter:

Safety First
- Cover your workspace to prevent damage.
- Use safety glasses and heat resistant gloves.
- Keep a damp cloth close by, just in case.
- Candle wax is flammable and can result in fire, similar to a grease fire.
Place the melter on a raised surface
- You can purchase a sturdy wooden box at your local craft store.
- Ensure that the raised platform is stable and has enough clearance for your molds to fit under the spout.
Place your candle wax into the Melter
- Try to get the right amount of wax for the volume of the candle you will be making (reduces waste).
Turn the melter to the Warm position
- You should know the melting point of your wax.
- Do NOT over heat the wax. If it reaches its flash point, then it WILL catch on fire.
Stir the wax as it begins to melt
- A wooden stirring spoon works well.
- The spout will be hot, don’t touch.
- If there is residual wax in the spout, then you will have to wait for the spout to heat up enough to melt that wax.
- Patience is a virtue.
Put the wick into the candle mold
Add you color and fragrance oil (scent)
- Use the proper amount of fragrance, about 1 – 1.5 ounces per pound of wax.
- Using extra fragrance is wasteful because the wax can only absorb a certain amount.
- You can use either liquid candle dye or color chips.
Pour the candle wax into the mold(s)
- Heat resistant gloves will keep you from getting burned.
- Open the valve slowly to minimize splashing.
Tip and Warnings
- Do not cover the melter with a lid while it is in use. This will cause pressure to build up.
- Don’t over heat the candle wax, fire hazard.
- Don’t tip the melter.
- Apply the correct amount of heat for the wax being used. Soy wax has a low melting temperature, around 120 degrees Fahrenheit.