Candle-Burning Tips and Tricks

One of the beautiful things about handcrafted items is the fact that the loving care in each single product is palpable. But it can also mean that no two items are alike in every way, which can give rise to occasional issues that can affect the life of your candle. Here are some tips to help get the most out of your candles.

The First Burn

When you burn your candle for the first time, allow it to burn until it reaches a full melt pool. This is when the candle wax reaches the very edge of its jar. You must allow ample time for this activity (at least four hours). If you make this a priority, then your candle will burn all the way to the edge every time you burn it, which will help maintain a clean jar. This can also prevent it from tunneling. 

Tunneling

Tunneling is when a burning candle’s wax only melts in the center and leaves a thick edge of wax all around the vessel. If you need to fix this issue, wrap a collar of tinfoil around the top of the candle vessel the next time you light it (make sure you trim the wick to a ¼ inch first). Then, fold it inward, leaving space for the flame. This will trap heat on the surface of the candle (particularly around the edges) and allow the extra band of wax to melt. Let it burn about one hour for every inch of its diameter and then remove the tinfoil. You should be left with a full melt pool.

Alternate Use of Wick Dipper

If you have a wick dipper, you know it’s a smokeless way to extinguish your candle. But you can also use it in another instance. If your candle has a very thin amount of wax on one side due to a slightly off-center wick, consider running it alongside the edge while it’s lit to encourage the rest of the wax to melt. This will loosen it from that side and bring it closer to the flame, which will help create a full melt pool.