Candle terminology 101

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Introduction: Candle making is an age-old craft that has evolved into a popular hobby and even a lucrative business for many enthusiasts. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned candle maker, understanding the terminology associated with this art form is essential for creating stunning candles. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the ABCs of candle making terms, covering everything from wax types to fragrance oils, wicks, and more. So, grab your apron and let's dive into the fascinating world of candle making lingo!

1. Wax Types: a. Paraffin Wax: Derived from petroleum, paraffin wax is one of the most commonly used waxes in candle making. It's known for its excellent scent throw and ability to hold vibrant colors. b. Soy Wax: Made from soybean oil, soy wax is a natural alternative to paraffin wax. It's eco-friendly, renewable, and produces a clean burn with minimal soot. Soy waxes are often blended with other waxes to improve the final product. c. Beeswax: Harvested from honeycomb cells, beeswax has a natural golden hue and a subtle honey scent. It's prized for its long burn time and air-purifying properties. d. Palm Wax: Derived from palm oil, palm wax is known for its beautiful crystalline structure and ability to hold intricate designs. It's often used for pillar candles and votives.

1. Fragrance Oils: a. Essential Oils: There are different opinions on Essential Oils (EO) in the candle making world. I personally avoid Essential Oils. Some EO's are toxic to animals and have lower flash points meaning they could possibly be a fire hazard. If you choose to use EO's then do your own diligent research before using. b. Fragrance Oils (FO) Formulated in a laboratory, fragrance oils offer a wide range of scents that mimic natural fragrances. They're often more affordable and stable than EO's. c. Fragrance Load: Refers to the percentage of fragrance oil used in candle making. A higher fragrance load results in a stronger scent throw but may affect the candle's performance.

1. Wicks: a. Cotton Wicks: Made from 100% cotton, these wicks are popular for their clean burn and minimal soot. They come in various sizes and are suitable for different candle diameters. b. Wooden Wicks: Crafted from sustainably sourced wood, wooden wicks offer a unique crackling sound reminiscent of a fireplace. They're ideal for creating cozy ambiance in candles. c. Wick Size: Determined by the diameter of the candle container, wick size plays a crucial role in achieving an even burn and preventing tunneling. Choosing the right wick size is essential for candle quality.

1. Candle Types: a. Container Candles: Candles poured into containers such as jars, tins, or glass vessels. They're versatile, easy to make, and ideal for beginners. b. Pillar Candles: Standalone candles molded into pillar shapes without the need for containers. They're great for decorative purposes and come in various sizes and designs. c. Tea Light Candles: Small, disc-shaped candles housed in metal or plastic containers. They're perfect for adding ambiance to any space and are often used in candle holders or lanterns.

1. Colorants: a. Liquid Dyes: Concentrated colorants in liquid form, ideal for tinting candle wax. They offer vibrant hues and are easy to mix to create custom colors. b. Pigment Powders: Fine powders used to color candle wax. They're highly concentrated and offer intense, opaque colors. Pigment powders are suitable for achieving bold and vivid hues. c. Mica Powders: Shimmery powders derived from minerals; mica powders add a subtle sparkle to candle wax. They're popular for creating elegant and decorative candles. Mica powders are often used in wickless candles or melts, as they can affect the burn of a wick.

1. Melt and Pour Technique: A candle making method that involves melting pre-made wax and adding fragrance oils, colorants, and other additives before pouring the mixture into molds or containers. It's a beginner-friendly technique that allows for creativity and experimentation.

1. Cure Time: The period required for candles to fully develop their scent and burn characteristics after being poured. Depending on the wax type and fragrance used, cure time can range from a few days to several weeks.

1. Scent Throw: Hot and Cold Refers to the strength and diffusion of a candle's fragrance when lit. A good scent throw ensures that the fragrance fills the room, creating a pleasant olfactory experience for the user. A hot throw refers to the fragrance when lit, whereas a cold throw is the fragrance of an unlit candle. Wax type, wicks, amount of FO and vessel can affect the scent throw of a candle.
   

Conclusion: Mastering the terminology of candle making is essential for creating beautiful and high-quality candles. From choosing the right wax type to selecting fragrance oils, wicks, and colorants, each aspect plays a crucial role in the final product. Whether you're a hobbyist or aspiring entrepreneur, understanding these essential terms will empower you to unleash your creativity and craft candles that delight the senses. So, let your imagination soar and embark on your candle making journey with confidence!