When it comes to crafting the perfect candle, the details matter. Whether you’re an experienced candle maker or just getting started, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can affect your candle’s quality. Let’s go through some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them. This post mostly addresses soy candles, but hey, reach out to us if you have questions about any type of wax for candle making. Allow us to be your candle making guides.
1. How to Choose the Right Wick Size for Soy Candles
Choosing the correct wick size is crucial for a clean, even burn. A wick that’s too small will result in tunneling, while one that’s too large can lead to overheating and wasted wax. For soy candles, the size of the container and the type of wax both matter, so always run a test burn to make sure your wick matches your container perfectly.
2. Best Temperature to Melt Soy Wax
Temperature control is everything in candle-making. For soy wax, the ideal melting point is between 170°F to 180°F. Overheating can cause the wax to burn too quickly, while melting it at too low a temperature can lead to poor bonding with fragrance oils, affecting scent throw.
3. Adding Fragrance Oil to Soy Wax at the Right Temperature
One of the most critical steps in making a scented candle is knowing when to add your fragrance oil. For soy wax, the best time is when the wax is between 175°F and 185°F. This ensures that the fragrance binds well to the wax and doesn’t evaporate before it gets a chance to settle.
4. How Much Fragrance Oil to Use in Soy Candles
Finding the right balance of fragrance oil can be tricky. Too much, and your candle might burn improperly; too little, and you won’t get enough scent throw. The general rule is to use 6-10% fragrance oil based on the weight of the wax (about 1 ounce of fragrance per pound of wax). This ensures the perfect balance between scent and burn quality.
5. Curing Soy Candles for Better Scent Throw
Curing is an essential step that many overlook. After pouring your candles, allow them to cure for at least 2-3 days, but for the best scent throw, let them sit for up to two weeks. This curing time allows the fragrance and wax to bind fully, ensuring a stronger, more consistent scent when burned.
6. How to Test Burn Time for Homemade Candles
Burn testing is the best way to determine how long your candles will last and how evenly they will burn. To conduct a proper test, light the candle and let it burn for about four hours, keeping an eye on how the wax melts and how the wick performs. This will give you insight into how your candles behave and help you make any necessary adjustments.
7. Best Containers for Soy Wax Candles
The container you choose isn’t just for looks—it affects the candle’s performance. For soy wax, heat-resistant glass containers are a great choice as they handle the temperature changes well and allow for an even burn. Make sure the container is also appropriately sized for the wick you’re using.
8. How to Properly Mix Fragrance Oil in Candle Wax
Properly mixing your fragrance oil into the wax is essential for an even scent distribution. After adding the fragrance to your melted wax, stir continuously for at least 1-2 minutes. This ensures the oil is thoroughly incorporated, giving your candle an even scent throughout its burn time.
9. Best Pouring Temperature for Soy Candles
Pouring temperature can affect the final appearance and performance of your candles. For soy wax, the ideal pouring temperature is between 135°F and 140°F. This prevents issues like sinkholes or frosting, ensuring a smooth and professional finish.
10. How to Store Homemade Candles Properly
After you’ve poured and cured your candles, storage is key to maintaining their quality. Store your candles in a cool, dark place to avoid scent loss and color changes. Sunlight and heat can degrade both the wax and the fragrance over time, so keep them safe until you’re ready to light them.
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