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Soy vs Paraffin Wax Candles: Which Should You Choose? Choosing between soy vs paraffin wax candles often comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. Each type of wax offers distinct advantages that cater to different needs, whether you value vibrant colors or eco-friendly materials. Soy Wax vs Paraffin Wax: Key Considerations Choose Paraffin Wax If: Bright, Bold Colors Matter to You: Paraffin wax holds color exceptionally well, making it the best choice if you want candles with vivid, eye-catching colors. You Dislike Frosting: Frosting, a natural occurrence where the wax appears cloudy, is much less noticeable in paraffin candles. If a smooth, polished look is important, paraffin wax is your go-to. You Want Strongly Scented Candles Quickly: Paraffin wax allows for a strong scent throw with minimal curing time, perfect for those who want to enjoy their candles' fragrance immediately. Choose Soy Wax If: Supporting Local Farmers is Important: Soy wax is derived from soybeans, which are primarily grown in the United States. By choosing soy, you support American farmers and opt for a renewable, plant-based resource. You Prefer Subtle, Pastel Colors: Soy wax tends to produce softer, pastel colors, especially when dyes are not used. Frosting is more common in soy candles, but it's less noticeable without added colorants. You Want a Cleaner Burn: Soy wax burns cleaner than paraffin, producing minimal black soot. If you're concerned about air quality or want to avoid soot marks on your containers, soy wax is the better choice. Making the Right Decision When deciding between soy wax vs paraffin wax, consider what matters most to you: vibrant colors and immediate scent payoff, or a cleaner, more eco-friendly option that supports sustainable practices. Both waxes have their strengths, so your choice should align with your personal values and the aesthetic you want to achieve in your candles. You May Also Like: What Are the Types of Candle Wax? What is Blended Wax? What is Paraffin Wax? What is Soy Wax?

Choosing a Candle Wick Size Determining the best wick size to use is topic that generates a lot of questions. There are a variety of factors that can impact the size of wick to use and change how a candle burns. Since there are many variables that can affect a candle’s burning characteristics, there is no single answer on which wick size will work properly without performing testing for each candle recipe. Changing just one of the items listed below may mean modifying the wick size as well. Some of the main things that can determine the best wick size for your recipe are: Wax used (paraffin, vegetable/soy, etc.) Type and amount of dye used Amount of fragrance oil used Amount and types of additives added Candle diameter Because of the many factors that can impact the burning characteristics of a finished candle, the only way to determine the best wick size for each particular candle is through testing. Testing can be one of the challenging parts of candle making. However, if you keep detailed notes, it can become easier as you become more familiar with how well certain recipes work. We offer a wick guide to help with suggested starting points. However, there is no substitute for testing to determine the optimal wick size for each particular candle recipe.  

A fragrance is divided into 3 distinct parts: top note, middle note, and base note. Each of these usually has an assortment of ingredients. Top Note – This is the initial immediate smell you notice when you sniff a fragrance oil. This is known as the initial fragrance 'burst.' Middle Note – This is considered to be the heart of the fragrance and becomes more prevalent once the top note dissipates. Bottom Note – The base notes are long lasting and provide depth to the fragrance. Also referred to as the 'dry down.' You May Also Like Top 10 Scents for Women

Candles will have a different color once they have cooled versus the color of the wax when it is melted. Sometimes there can be dramatic differences. To test and see how your candle is going to turn out once it has cooled, you can simply take a small sample of the melted wax (using a wooden spoon or other utensil) and place it on a paper towel or white sheet of paper. It should cool quickly and give you a good idea of what the candle will be in its final form. If you are not happy with the color in the sample, simply add more dye and repeat the process until you achieve your desired shade of color.

Specks of dye in the bottom of a candle is usually the result of dye chips or dye blocks that did not get fully melted and dispersed in the wax. When using dye chips or dye blocks and this is an issue, try adding them to the wax at a temperature around 175° - 185° and stir thoroughly for several minutes allowing the dye time to get fully dispersed in the wax.

There is no set rule for when a double wick should be used. However, a general guideline is that candles with a diameter of 4" or larger may need a double wick (or triple if preferred). The reason for using a double wick in larger diameter candles is to achieve a full burn pool, which can be challenging with only a single wick. There are large wicks designed for wider diameter candles. However, we have found that larger wicks are more prone to mushrooming, soot, and smoke. For this reason, a double wick may be a better alternative. The decision on when to use a double wick is more of a personal choice. We have known candle makers to use double wicks in smaller diameter candles and others that prefer a single wick in a larger diameter candle. Testing is the only way to determine which wick choice (single or double wicking) is best for a particular application and will achieve optimal burning characteristics. Double wicking a candle is really not difficult. The challenging part is finding the right wick size to use for a double wick. As a general rule of thumb on how to select the right wick size when using double wicks, find a wick that is designed for half of the candle diameter and start testing with two of that size. For example, if making a 5" diameter candle that will have double wicks, you may begin testing with a wick size that is designed for a 2.5" diameter candle. Be sure they are centered, spaced out about 1" apart from each other, and not too close to the side of the glass if using containers. Placing the wicks close to the sides can cause the glass to get too hot. Please remember that testing is the only way to determine the best wick size for a particular candle recipe.

What Temperature Should I Add Dye Oil to Melted Wax? Add dye to melted wax when it reaches around 170-180°F (76-82°C) to ensure even color distribution without burning the dye.

Our troubleshooting guide is meant to serve as a reference in addressing problems you may be experiencing either making or burning candles. While we cannot list every scientific problem that can arise with candles, it does provide possible causes and resolutions for many common candle related issues. General Candle Making/Burning Issues Issue Potential Reason for Issue Resolution for Issue Small flame or flame drowns out Wick is too small Use a larger wick or try a different wick type Wax is too hard for wick used Use a softer wax or reduce amount of wax hardening additive if used Candle smokes or creates excessive soot Too heavy use of additives (dye, fragrance, etc.) Reduce amount of additives used Candle may be in a draft Move candles to an area that is clear of drafts, typically not near vents Wick size too large Use smaller wick size or try a different wick type Candle flame too big Wick size is too big Use smaller wick size or try a different wick type Wick needs to be trimmed Always trim wick to ¼ to ½ inch before burning Candle wick is ‘mushrooming’ Wick size is too large for candle Use a smaller wick size (Zinc wicks are known to mushroom more than other wick types, but this can be minimized by keeping the wick trimmed) Wick needs to be trimmed Always trim wick to ¼ to ½ inch prior to burning Candle color fades Too much exposure to light   Keep candles stored in a dark area and away from direct sunlight Add UV inhibitor to prolong candle color life Low quality candle dye Use only quality candle dye Low quality wax Use only quality wax designed for candle making Little or no scent throw Added fragrance oil too soon before pouring Add fragrance oil just before pouring to minimize evaporation Poor quality fragrance oil Use only quality fragrance oils from trusted suppliers Too little fragrance oil used Add more fragrance Type of fragrance oil used Be sure fragrance oil used is designed for use in candle making Type of wax used Use better quality wax Candle not burning evenly Wick may not be centered Be sure wick is properly centered using equipment such as a wick bar   Candle may be in a draft Move candles to an area that is clear of drafts, typically not near vents Sputtering flame Water may have gotten in the wax Be sure to prevent water from getting in the wax when making candles Air pockets may have formed during the cooling process Adjust the pouring temperature Tap the sides of the container or mold lightly after pouring to release air pockets Candle burning rapidly Air pockets formed around the wick Adjust the pouring temperature Tap the sides of the container or mold lightly after pouring to release air pockets Wax is too soft for wick used Use a harder wax or smaller wick size Candle surface has a ‘mottled’ effect Excessive oil used in wax Reduce amount of fragrance oil used and/or use additives such as Vybar to prevent mottling Candle cooled too quickly Be careful not to use excessive amounts of mold release Allow the candle to cool at a slower pace by wrapping a towel around the mold or container Pre-heat the mold or container prior to pouring Candle will not stay lit Wick not primed Use wicks that are ‘primed,’ or coated with wax Wick may be clogged Avoid using dyes that contain pigments which can clog the wick Be sure the wax is clean of dust and debris before melting Oil seeping from candle Likely used too much fragrance oil Reduce the amount of fragrance oils used Wax is not formulated to retain large percentages of fragrance oil Use additives such as Vybar to increase fragrance oil retention Use a wax that is designed to retain higher amount of fragrance oil (many waxes are pre-blended for increased fragrance oil retention) Candle cracked during cooling Candle cooled too quickly Allow candle to cool in warmer temperature environment Do not place in the refrigerator or freezer Candle has dye spots on surface Dye chips or blocks did not fully dissolve before pouring Stir thoroughly and allow dye chips or dye blocks to fully dissolve before pouring Consider using liquid dyes which disperse easier in melted wax Candle color is fading Candle has too much exposure to UV lighting Keep candles out of direct sunlight Consider using UV inhibitors which can help prolong colors before natural fading occurs Candle has ‘tunneling’ effect (leaving wax on the sides of container candles) Wick size too small Use a larger wick size Use a softer wax    You May Also Like: How to Fix Candle Tunneling How to Get Wax Out of Fabric, Clothing and Carpet

Understanding Candle Wick Numbers This is one of the most common questions we receive. The wick numbers represent the size of the wick. Candles need the right wick size specific to their diameter to burn correctly. Smaller diameter candles require smaller wick sizes and larger diameter candles require larger wick sizes (unless you are using more than one wick). As a general rule, the larger the wick number, the larger (thicker) the wick size. This is important when determining the right wick size to use for a specific candle diameter. Using too small of a wick will lead to 'tunneling' or will cause the flame to drown out. Using too large of a wick size will lead to excess smoking, soot, and/or mushrooming, as well as cut down on the candle burn time. Understanding the wick size number is essential to ensure you are using the right wick size that will lead to optimal burning characteristics. Some wicks have 3 different numbers for the wick size. For example, one of our zinc wick sizes is 60-44-18. Below is a description of what the numbers represent: The first number tells you the wick size. The size of the wick is determined by how many spools of yarn were used to make the wick. The higher the number, the larger the wick.  As a general rule, the larger wick sizes will have a bigger melt pool and usually have higher wax consumption. The second number indicates the speed at which the wick was sent through the braiding machine. The higher the number, the faster the speed and the tighter the braid. Wicks with a tighter braid have less fuel (wax) consumption. The third number is a code for the temperature of the wax as the wick is fed through the gears of the braiding machine. This temperature varies according to the two previous numbers. Note: Many pre-tabbed wicks may appear to be the same thickness even though they are different wick sizes. Smaller wick sizes tend to have a thicker wax coating which creates the illusion of having the same thickness of larger wicks sizes. However, these wicks will burn differently when used in a finished candle.  

Understanding Fragrance Load in Candle Making The term fragrance load refers to the maximum percentage of fragrance oil that a particular wax can hold. This is an essential factor in candle making, as it determines how much fragrance oil you should use to achieve the desired scent strength without compromising the quality of your candle. How Much Fragrance Oil Per Candle? When determining how much fragrance oil per candle to use, it's crucial to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the wax you’re working with. For instance, if you're using a wax with a maximum fragrance concentration of 10%, and you're making a 16 oz. candle, you can add up to 1.6 oz. of fragrance oil (16 oz. * 10% = 1.6 oz.). Exceeding the recommended fragrance load can result in issues such as poor burning characteristics or the appearance of sweating, where the excess fragrance seeps from the candle. What is Fragrance Load? Fragrance load is the maximum amount of fragrance that a wax can retain without affecting its performance. For example, paraffin wax often has a lower scent capacity, typically around 3%, unless additives like Vybar are used to increase its capacity. On the other hand, many pre-blended waxes or those with additives can hold higher fragrance loads, sometimes up to 12%, allowing for a stronger scent throw in your finished candles. Recommended Fragrance Load for Testing For beginners, a good starting point is to use 1 oz. of fragrance oil per 1 lb. of wax. This results in a fragrance load of approximately 6.3%, a safe and effective amount for testing the performance of your candle. Always remember to calculate the fragrance load by weight, not by volume, to ensure accuracy. By understanding and properly calculating the fragrance load, you can create candles that not only smell wonderful but also burn correctly and look great and safe.   You May Also Like Top 10 Scents for Women  

You spent time perfecting the shade of your candle, only to check back later and notice the color has shifted or faded almost completely, without intending to make a color changing candle! Whether your candles are meant for personal use or retail, color changes can affect the overall look and feel of your product. So why does this candle wax discoloration happen? Candle color fading or discoloration is typically the result of environmental exposure, ingredient interaction, or the natural aging of materials. Here’s how to understand it, prevent it, and know when it signals something more. For long-lasting color and performance, start with high-quality materials and proper storage practices. Explore our full Candle Dyes Collection and try a tested shade like Red Liquid Candle Dye for reliable color control from batch to batch. Why Does Candle Wax Change Color Over Time? Candle color doesn’t just fade without a cause. Most of the time, changes are linked to how the candle was formulated and stored. Both natural and synthetic dyes can shift in appearance under certain conditions. UV Light, Fragrance, and Additive Reactions Ultraviolet (UV) exposure is one of the most common causes of fading. When candles sit in direct sunlight or strong artificial lighting, dyes can break down or become unstable. Even if the wax looks fine at first, you may notice fading or yellowing after a few days or weeks. Some fragrance oils, especially those with vanilla or citrus compounds, can also interact with certain dyes and cause discoloration or patchiness. The presence of UV inhibitors, stabilizers, or certain wax additives may help in some cases, but results vary depending on the wax type and formulation. Color Shifts in Natural vs. Dyed Candles Natural waxes like soy or beeswax often have a slight tint of their own. This can affect how the final candle color looks, especially with lighter shades. Over time, that natural wax tone may deepen, which makes pastels or delicate hues appear uneven or washed out. Pigment-based dyes tend to hold up longer than liquid dyes but may still be affected by fragrance or oxidation. How to Make Candles Last Longer Even if your candles are beautifully colored today, poor storage can reduce how long that color holds. Here are some notes for improving candle care. Storage Tips for Finished Candles Store candles in a cool, dark area away from direct sunlight Avoid placing finished candles near heat vents, windows, or warm storage rooms Use airtight or UV-protective packaging for long-term shelf life Keep candles away from high-humidity environments that may accelerate degradation If you're producing in bulk, clear labeling and rotation schedules can also help keep your inventory looking its best. Does Candle Wax Expire or Go Bad? Candle wax does not expire in the same way food does, but it can degrade over time, especially when exposed to oxygen, UV light, or high temperatures. This affects not only fragrance throw and burn quality but also the appearance of the wax. Signs of Aging in Wax and Colorants Fading or yellowing of originally vibrant colors Uneven coloration or mottling in dyed candles A sour or off smell in the wax itself Brittleness, cracking, or frosting, especially in soy wax These signs do not always mean the candle is unsafe to burn, but they may suggest that the materials are past their best quality. Frequently Asked Questions Q: How do I color candles without fading?A: Use high-quality dyes that are compatible with your wax type. Avoid overexposure to light and heat during curing and storage. Q: What’s the best way to dye candle wax?A: Liquid dyes work well for consistent color, while dye blocks offer more control in smaller batches. Always test your exact wax and fragrance combination to monitor for color stability. Q: Do candles go bad over time?A: Not in the traditional sense, but both wax and colorants can lose performance if stored improperly. Keep materials in a cool, dry, and dark space to extend shelf life.

A lit candle should burn cleanly, with a steady flame and little to no smoke. So if yours is throwing off black wisps or popping like a campfire, something’s off. Whether you’re troubleshooting a wooden wick candle or just wondering why is my candle smoking so much, the fix usually comes down to a few simple adjustments. Why Is My Candle Smoking? Excess smoke from a candle, especially black smoke, usually means the flame is burning too large or too hot. That can happen for several reasons: The wick is too long The wick is too thick for the wax and vessel There’s debris (like soot or char) feeding the flame Airflow is causing an unstable burn The wax or fragrance load isn’t burning cleanly Let’s break down the most common causes and how to stop candle smoke for good. 1. Wick Too Long or Not Trimmed This is the #1 cause of candle smoking. If the wick gets too long, it starts to mushroom, which leads to a bigger, smokier flame. Fix it: Trim your wick to ¼ inch before every burn. For wooden wicks, 1/8 inch works best. If you're seeing black soot around the jar rim, chances are the wick needs a trim. 2. Wick Too Large for the Candle A wick that’s too wide or thick can draw more wax than the flame can cleanly burn. That results in a larger flame, more smoke, and sometimes a torch-like effect. What to look for: Big flame Fast melt pool Smoke or soot shortly after lighting If this sounds like your setup, consider sizing down your wick or switching to a different series better suited for the wax and container diameter. 3. Drafty or Unstable Burning Conditions If the flame is flickering or dancing too much, airflow might be feeding extra oxygen to the flame, making it unstable and smoky. Avoid burning candles near: Open windows Fans AC vents A stable burn = a clean burn. 4. Debris in the Wax Pool Leftover wick trimmings, charred material, or dust can interfere with how the wax burns. These can act like extra fuel, making the candle smoke or pop. Check the melt pool before each burn, and keep it clean. 5. Too Much Fragrance or Additives An overloaded candle, whether with fragrance oil, dye, or other additives, can struggle to burn cleanly. Overloaded wax may not fully combust, and that excess can come out as smoke.Stick to your wax’s maximum fragrance load (as defined by the manufacturer) and use quality-tested candle fragrances. If you’re experimenting with dye or custom blends, test burns are essential. Why Is My Candle Smoking Black? Black smoke is usually unburned carbon from a too-large flame. The solution is almost always to: Trim the wick Reduce drafts Check wick sizing If the black smoke is coming from a wooden wick, trimming even a sliver off the top can make a big difference. Don’t relight a wooden wick without trimming off the charred end. Why Is My Wooden Wick Candle Smoking? Wooden wicks can sometimes be more prone to smoking if: They’re not trimmed close enough to the wax surface The wick size isn’t properly matched to the container The wood has absorbed fragrance or moisture Use clean, dry wooden wicks made for candle making, never repurpose craft wood or popsicle sticks. How to Stop a Candle From Smoking Here’s your quick checklist to stop candle smoke: Trim the wick before each burn Use the right wick size and style for your wax and container Burn in a draft-free area Keep the wax pool clean Stick to tested fragrance loads Popping, Crackling & Bubbly Noises A little soft crackle from wooden wicks is normal, but loud popping or bubbling sounds can indicate: Moisture in the wick Trapped air from improper wax pouring Debris or additives affecting the burn Always store wicks in a dry area, and pour wax slowly to avoid air pockets. If the candle sounds like it’s boiling, blow it out and inspect the melt pool. Final Burn Tips Clean-burning candles start with the right wick, wax, and testing. Smoke is a sign that something’s out of balance, but the fix is usually easy. For makers, it’s a reminder to revisit wick selection, wax compatibility, and fragrance percentages. For candle lovers, it might just be time for a trim. If your candle is producing more smoke than scent, your flame is trying to tell you something.