Troubleshooting Common Candlemaking Challenges

Uneven burning occurs when the candle burns down one side or leaves a tunnel through the center. This issue, known as “tunneling,” is one of the most common frustrations in candlemaking.

#### **Causes**
Tunneling often happens when the wick is too small for the diameter of the candle. It can also occur if the wax is not allowed to melt evenly across the entire surface during the first burn.

#### **Solutions**
To prevent tunneling, ensure that the wick size matches the candle’s diameter. Larger candles require wicks with greater burn capacity to produce enough heat to melt the wax evenly. During the first burn, allow the candle to melt completely across the surface, forming a “full melt pool.” This process typically takes one to three hours, depending on the candle size. Educating customers about the importance of the first burn is equally essential for preventing this issue.

A candle’s scent throw—the strength of its fragrance when cold (cold throw) or burning (hot throw)—is a critical factor in its appeal. When the scent is too faint, the candle loses its sensory impact.

#### **Causes**
Weak scent throw is often caused by using too little fragrance oil or adding it at the wrong temperature. Using a wax type incompatible with the fragrance oil can also diminish the scent throw.

#### **Solutions**
To improve the scent throw, ensure you’re using the correct ratio of fragrance oil to wax. For most waxes, a fragrance load of 6–10% by weight is ideal. Add the fragrance oil to the wax at the recommended temperature, typically between 175°F and 185°F (79°C to 85°C). If the scent throw remains weak, consider switching to a wax known for excellent fragrance retention, such as soy or coconut wax.

Excessive sooting can detract from a candle’s beauty and even pose health concerns. It often manifests as black smoke or residue on the container or surrounding surfaces.

#### **Causes**
Sooting is usually caused by improperly trimmed wicks or wicks that are too large for the candle. Using wax or fragrance oils with impurities can also contribute to sooting.

#### **Solutions**
Always trim the wick to ¼ inch before each burn. This length helps maintain a steady flame and reduces smoke. Choose wicks that are appropriately sized for the candle diameter, and avoid overloading the wax with fragrance oil, which can lead to incomplete combustion. Additionally, using high-quality wax and fragrance oils ensures a cleaner burn.

Cracks or frosting—a whitish, cloudy appearance on the surface of the candle—can make the candle look less appealing. These issues are particularly common with soy wax.

#### **Causes**
Cracking often occurs when candles cool too quickly, causing uneven shrinkage. Frosting is a natural characteristic of soy wax and some other plant-based waxes but can be exacerbated by temperature fluctuations.

#### **Solutions**
To prevent cracks, pour the wax slowly at a slightly lower temperature, typically around 135°F to 145°F (57°C to 63°C). Allow the candle to cool gradually in a stable environment free from drafts. For frosting, while it’s difficult to eliminate completely, maintaining consistent temperatures during pouring and cooling can minimize its appearance. Highlighting the natural qualities of soy wax can also turn frosting into a selling point rather than a flaw.

Sometimes, the wax pulls away from the container, leaving unsightly gaps. This issue is particularly noticeable with glass jars or tins.

#### **Causes**
Wax shrinkage during cooling is the primary cause of this problem. Sudden temperature changes or underfilled containers can exacerbate the issue.

#### **Solutions**
Pour wax slowly at a controlled temperature, ensuring the container is slightly warm to reduce temperature contrast. Filling the container to the appropriate level can also help prevent shrinkage. If gaps form, gently use a heat gun to warm the surface and sides of the candle, allowing the wax to reattach to the container.

Candles that won’t release from molds can be frustrating, especially for pillar or sculptural designs.

#### **Causes**
Improper preparation of the mold or wax that has cooled too firmly against the mold walls can make removal challenging.

#### **Solutions**
Prepare the mold by applying a light coating of mold release spray or vegetable oil before pouring the wax. Allow the candle to cool completely, as premature removal can cause breakage. Placing the mold in the refrigerator for a short time can help the wax contract slightly, making it easier to remove. Ensure the mold is flexible, such as silicone, for intricate designs.

A wick that flickers, drowns in melted wax, or fails to stay lit can ruin the functionality of a candle.

#### **Causes**
Using the wrong wick size or type for the wax and container can lead to poor performance. Overloading the wax with additives or fragrance oils can also affect wick behavior.

#### **Solutions**
Select wicks that are specifically designed for the type of wax and container size you’re using. Test burn your candles to confirm that the wick performs well. Avoid overloading the wax with additives, as this can clog the wick and prevent it from burning properly.