The bowl in your homemade double boiler should fit snugly onto the large pot. There should be no gaps or spaces between the bowl and the rim of the pot. [2] X Research source The bottom of the bowl should not touch bottom of the large pot. If you are making your own double boiler, consider using a glass or ceramic bowl instead of a metal one. Glass and ceramic bowls don’t transfer heat as much as metal ones do, which means that they heat slower and more evenly, thus giving you more control. [3] X Research source

Consider having some extra water nearby. The water level in your double boiler will decrease the longer you cook. You can prevent the water level from going too low and scorching your bottom pot by having a cup of water nearby. When the water level gets too low, refill the bottom pot with more water.

If the items you are heating already come in smaller chunks, you will not need to cut them up. Examples of smaller items include: chocolate chips, melting chocolate disks, shaved soap, and wax pellets.

Do not let any water to come in contact with the melting chocolate. Water will cause the chocolate to stiffen or turn grainy. If this does happen, ½ to 1 teaspoon of shortening per ounce of chocolate will remedy the problem. [8] X Research source To prevent dark chocolate from scorching, do not let the chocolate’s temperature go over 115°F (46°C). To prevent milk chocolate and white chocolate from scorching, do not let the temperature go over 110°F (43°C). [9] X Research source

If your wax does not come in pellets, chunks, or flakes, you will need to cut the block into smaller pieces. This will make it melt faster. Once the wax has melted, you may add fragrances and dyes. Do not leave heating wax unattended. Wax takes a long time to melt, but once it reaches its “flash” point, it becomes flammable. Do not let the temperature of the heating wax go above 250°F (121°C). [11] X Research source

Rebatch soap will never become fully-melted, but have the consistency of oatmeal instead. It will reach this consistency after about 20 minutes.

Consider working with two-pound blocks. Batches of this size are the easiest to work with. [13] X Research source Set your stove’s heat to medium-low or medium. Be careful not to heat your soap too quickly. [14] X Research source