3 mistakes you’re making as a candle maker

Candle making is an ancient craft that has been passed down through generations.

While it may seem like a simple process, there are several common mistakes that candle makers often make. In this article, we will explore three things that candle makers frequently get wrong when making candles.

The first mistake that candle makers often make is not properly measuring the ingredients.

Candle making requires precise measurements of wax, fragrance oils, and wicks. If the measurements are not accurate, it can lead to a variety of issues such as poor scent throw, uneven burning, or even a complete failure to light the candle. One common error is using too much or too little fragrance oil. Fragrance oils are what give candles their pleasant scent, but using too much can result in an overpowering aroma that can be unpleasant or even irritating to some people. On the other hand, using too little fragrance oil can result in a weak scent throw, where the candle barely releases any fragrance when burned. It is important for candle makers to follow recommended guidelines and use a precise scale to measure the correct amount of fragrance oil for each batch.

Another mistake that candle makers often make is using the wrong type of wick for their candles.

The wick is responsible for carrying the flame and ensuring an even burn, I believe the wick is the most important aspect of the candle. Using a wick that is too small can lead to tunnelling, where the wax burns down the center of the candle, leaving a thick wall of wax around the edges.

This not only wastes wax but also reduces the overall burn time of the candle. On the other hand, using a wick that is too large can result in a flame that is too hot, causing the candle to burn too quickly and potentially creating a safety hazard.

To avoid these issues, candle makers should carefully choose the appropriate wick size for each candle based on factors such as the diameter of the container, the type of wax being used, and the desired burn time. It is also important to conduct burn tests to ensure that the chosen wick performs well in terms of flame height, burn rate, and overall candle performance.

Lastly, many candle makers overlook the importance of proper cooling and curing time.

After pouring the melted wax into the container and adding fragrance oils, it is crucial to allow the candle to cool and cure for the recommended amount of time. Rushing this process can result in a candle that is not fully set or cured, leading to issues such as sinkholes, frosting, or poor scent throw. Candle makers should follow the recommended cooling and curing times provided by the wax manufacturer or conduct their own tests to determine the optimal duration. This allows the candle to fully set and mature its scent, resulting in a high-quality product that burns evenly and releases a pleasant aroma when lit.I n conclusion, candle making is a delicate art that requires attention to detail and precision. By avoiding common mistakes such as improper ingredient measurements, using the wrong wick, and neglecting proper cooling and curing time, candle makers can create beautiful and high-quality candles that bring joy and relaxation to their customers.

If you want to learn candle making with me sign up for my beginners online course Candle Making Made Easy today. You can visit my Etsy store which has lots of downloadable and printable tools to help you in your candle business – Etsy store