This is how you avoid cracking your soy wax candle!
On 2025-02-12 10:24:39
Entering the world of candle making is an exciting and creative adventure that offers plenty of opportunities for self-expression and creating your own unique decorations. Whether you are making a gift or just want to brighten up your home with a little warmth and fragrance, candles always create a special atmosphere. However, as with any craft activity, there are challenges that can arise: cracked surfaces, uneven burning, or unwanted color changes in the candle. But don't worry, these mistakes can be easily avoided with a few simple practices! I have collected the most important tips that will help both beginners and advanced candlemakers to make the candlemaking process not only successful, but also truly enjoyable.
1. Choose the right wax!
The first step in candle making is choosing the right raw material. In general, it can be said that soy wax (vegetable) raw materials are enjoying their heyday today. Why wouldn't it deserve the first place in the ranking, since it is 100% vegetable wax, free from animal testing and a completely vegan product. Beeswax and any other vegetable wax (palm, coconut, rapeseed) are ideal choices, as they are natural and environmentally friendly. These waxes cause fewer problems with cracking than paraffin waxes. In addition, using natural wax allows you to add special scents and colors to your candles.
2. Control the temperature!
Temperature plays a key role in candle casting. If the wax is too hot when you pour it, the surface of the candle may crack or air bubbles may form. It is advisable to melt the wax between 65-75 °C. Don't hesitate to use an accurate thermometer, as this can prevent a lot of inconvenience.
3. Pour slowly and evenly!
The pouring technique is also very important. When pouring wax into the mold, always do it slowly and evenly. This will avoid the formation of bubbles that can weaken the candle and contribute to cracking.
4. Add fragrance carefully!
If you want to make a scented candle, keep in mind the optimal temperature for adding fragrances. This is usually between 60-70 °C. Also, don't add too much fragrance! Choosing the right amount will help the scent to develop without compromising the structure of the candle.
5. Let the candle rest!
Once the candle is finished, let it rest in its shape until it is completely solid. This step will help stabilize the candle and reduce the possibility of cracking. We always avoid sudden temperature changes.
6. Feel free to experiment!
Don't forget that candle making is a fun and creative process! Feel free to experiment with different waxes, shapes and scents. Each attempt will enrich you with experience and help you find the most suitable techniques for making scented candles at home.v
Post-work: after pouring, it is advisable to pierce the scented candle with a toothpick (especially around the wick, to remove any air bubbles and in case the top cracks) and we can correct it with a heat gun! This way, the trapped air will come out and the crack will close.
Overall, the secret to avoiding cracking during candle making lies in careful preparation and paying attention to the small details. By paying attention to the wax, temperature, pouring technique and fragrance components, you can create beautiful, crack-free candles. Remember that every mistake is an opportunity to learn. Enjoy the joy of candle making and dare to experiment!