One of the most common frustrations candle makers experience is inconsistency. Candles that tunnel, smoke, or burn unevenly are rarely the result of “bad luck” they are usually caused by an untested combination of wax, wick, and vessel.
Understanding how these elements work together is essential for creating professional-quality candles.
There is no “perfect” wax
No wax works perfectly in every situation. Different waxes behave differently depending on fragrance load, vessel size, and wick choice.
Soy wax is popular for its natural image and clean burn, but it still requires proper testing. Blends can offer improved performance, but may come with different handling requirements. Choosing wax should always be based on performance, not trends alone.
Wick choice matters more than people realise
The wick controls how a candle burns. Too small, and the candle tunnels. Too large, and it may burn too hot, smoke, or consume wax too quickly.
Wooden and cotton wicks behave differently and respond to fragrance and vessel size in unique ways. Wick selection should always be guided by testing rather than assumption.
Vessel size and shape affect burn performance
Wider vessels require different wicks than narrow ones. Thick glass holds heat differently from thin glass. Even small changes can impact how a candle performs.
When changing vessels, testing should be repeated even if the wax and fragrance stay the same.
Why testing saves time and money
While testing can feel slow, it prevents wasted stock, customer complaints, and reputational damage. Recording results helps you spot patterns and make informed decisions rather than guessing.
Professional candle makers view testing as part of production, not an optional extra.
My approach to testing
My own testing process focuses on:
This approach reduces confusion and leads to more consistent results.
Record everything when testing - I have a candle burn test sheet which records every detail of the test burn from wick height to size of melt pool over and given time, as well as basics like scent throw.
If you want some help and more structured guidance, I run a monthly candle testing masterclass via Zoom and I offer 1:1 mentoring.
More info here: https://willowandfinn.co.uk/collections/candle-making-workshops
