Candle Making Basics
Calculating the right amount of wax and fragrance is essential for successful candle making. Wax weight varies by type due to different densities, and fragrance load should never exceed your wax's maximum recommendation.
Wax Types Comparison
| Wax Type | Max Fragrance | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Soy Wax | 10-12% | Container candles |
| Parasoy | 10-12% | Better hot throw |
| Paraffin | 6-10% | Pillars, votives |
| Coconut | 10-12% | Luxury candles |
| Beeswax | 6-8% | Natural, pillars |
| Palm Wax | 6-8% | Crystal patterns |
Container Size Guide
| Container | Wax (approx) | Burn Time |
|---|---|---|
| Tealight | 0.5 oz | 4-6 hours |
| Votive | 1.5-2 oz | 10-15 hours |
| 4 oz Tin | 3.5 oz | 20-25 hours |
| 8 oz Jar | 6-7 oz | 40-50 hours |
| 16 oz Jar | 12-14 oz | 80-100 hours |
Wick Selection Guide
| Container Diameter | Recommended Wick |
|---|---|
| 1-2 inches | Small (ECO 2, CD 3) |
| 2-3 inches | Medium (ECO 6, CD 8) |
| 3-4 inches | Large (ECO 10, CD 12) |
| 4+ inches | Multiple wicks recommended |
Candle Making Tips
- Double boiler: Never heat wax directly - use a double boiler
- Temperature: Add fragrance at 185F, pour at 135-145F for soy
- Cure time: Let candles cure 1-2 weeks for best scent throw
- First burn: Burn until full melt pool reaches edges
- Wick trimming: Trim to 1/4" before each burn
- Testing: Always test new fragrance/wax combinations
- Storage: Store candles away from sunlight and heat
Common Candle Problems
- Tunneling: Wick too small - try larger wick
- Drowning wick: Wick too small or fragrance load too high
- Sooting: Wick too large, needs trimming
- Wet spots: Normal shrinkage - not a defect
- Frosting: Natural in soy - embrace it or use additives
- Poor scent throw: Increase fragrance load or cure longer
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate are the results?
The Candle Making applies a standard formula to your inputs — accuracy depends on how precisely you measure those inputs. For planning and estimation, results are reliable. For high-stakes or professional decisions, cross-check the output with a domain expert or primary source.
Can I use this on mobile?
Yes — the calculator is designed to work on any device. For complex multi-input calculations on small screens, landscape orientation gives more room to see all fields and results simultaneously.
How should I interpret the Candle Making output?
The result is a calculated estimate based on the formula and your inputs. Compare it against the reference values or benchmarks shown on this page to understand whether your result is high, low, or typical. For decisions with real consequences, use the output as one data point alongside direct measurement and professional advice.
When should I use a different approach?
Use this calculator for quick, formula-based estimates. If your situation involves multiple interacting variables, time-varying inputs, or safety-critical decisions, consider a dedicated software tool, professional consultation, or direct measurement. Calculators are most reliable within their stated assumptions — check that your scenario matches those assumptions before relying on the output.