Common Candle Making Terms: What They All Mean
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وقت القراءة 16 min
Starting your candle making adventure goes beyond gathering quality materials; you need to speak the language of the craft. From choosing the perfect wax to mastering scent throw, knowing these terms makes all the difference in your success. This guide breaks down the common candle making terms, helping you work with confidence and unleash your creativity.
Table Of Contents
Your Essential Guide To Candle Making Terminology
Getting familiar with candle making terms forms the foundation for anyone exploring this creative craft, whether you're just starting out or sharpening your existing skills. The world of candle creation terminology might feel overwhelming initially, but mastering this candle making vocabulary is what separates good candles from exceptional ones. We believe that solid knowledge and clear communication help makers achieve their best results.
A thorough glossary of candle making terms helps you identify materials accurately, understand processes clearly, and solve common problems quickly. Knowing the difference between cold throw and hot throw, or how pour temperature affects your chosen wax, directly shapes your final product. This candle terminology gives you the confidence to select the right wick, fragrance oil, and container for each project. When you understand these terms for candle making, you'll boost your technical skills and transform your overall candle crafting experience. We're here as your trusted partner, offering both premium supplies and the expertise to use them well.
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Candle Making Terms: A-C
To truly master the art of candle making, understanding the foundational candle terms and definitions is paramount. This section clarifies essential candle production terms from A to C, providing the candle making definitions you need to refine your craft.
Adhesion
Refers to how well the wax sticks to the sides of your container in a container candle. Good adhesion prevents "wet spots" – areas where the wax pulls away from the glass, creating an undesirable appearance. Achieving strong adhesion often involves controlling the pour temperature and ensuring a slow, even cooling process for the wax.
Bloom
Bloom, sometimes called frosting, is a white, crystalline film that can appear on the surface or sides of natural wax candles, especially soy wax. It's a natural characteristic caused by fatty acids migrating to the surface. While purely cosmetic, it can be minimised by careful cooling and sometimes by using specific additive a substance designed to reduce frosting.
Burn pool
The burn pool is the melted wax that forms around the candle wick when a candle is lit. An ideal melt pool should extend to the edges of the container within a few hours of burning, but not be excessively deep. This ensures the wick is properly fuelled and maximises the fragrance oil release, contributing to a strong hot throw.
an example of bloom or candle frosting
Burn rate
Measures how quickly a candle consumes wax and fragrance over time. It's influenced by the wick size, wax type, and any additive a substance used. An optimal burn rate ensures a long-lasting candle and a consistent melt pool, preventing issues like tunnelling and promoting efficient fragrance dispersion.
Cold throw
Cold throw is the strength of a candle's scent when it is unlit and at room temperature. It's the first impression a customer gets of your fragrance. Achieving a good cold throw depends on the quality and load of your fragrance oil, the type of wax, and, crucially, allowing sufficient cure time for the fragrance to bind with the wax.
Container candle
A container candle is a candle poured directly into a heat-safe container or vessel, such as glass jars or tins. Unlike pillar candles, they do not stand on their own and rely on the container to hold the melted wax. This type of candle is popular for its ease of use, safety, and ability to showcase fragrance effectively.
an example of a container candle
Cure time
Cure time is the period after a candle has been poured during which the fragrance oil fully binds with the wax. This crucial process allows the scent molecules to disperse evenly throughout the wax, significantly improving both the cold throw and, more importantly, the hot throw when the candle is lit. Most soy wax candles benefit from a cure time of 1-2 weeks.
"It feels amazing to see how something so simple can brighten someone's day. I've started gifting my creations to friends and family, and the joy they bring is truly rewarding."
Candle making terms: D-F
Continuing our exploration of candle making terminology, this section covers common candle terms and definitions from D to F. Understanding these candle production terms helps you master your craft and create high-quality results.
Double pour
A double pour technique prevents sinkholes or cracks in wax after the initial pour and cooling process. It involves pouring a small amount of additional melted wax into the container once the first pour has partially set and created a depression. This creates a smooth, even surface for your finished candle.
Drowning wick
A drowning wick occurs when the melt pool becomes too deep, submerging the wick and causing the flame to extinguish or burn very low. This often happens if the wick is too small for the container or wax type, leading to insufficient burn rate. It can also impact fragrance throw.
Dye
Dye refers to the colouring agents used to add visual appeal to candles. Available in various forms like liquid, chips, or blocks, dye allows makers to customise their candles to match specific aesthetics. Proper dye load is important to avoid clogging the wick or affecting the burn quality.
the double pour method
Essential oil
An essential oil is a concentrated hydrophobic liquid containing volatile chemical compounds from plants. In candle making, essential oils are used to impart a natural scent. They often require specific wax types and wick sizes, and their flashpoint must be considered for safe and effective fragrance incorporation.
Flashpoint
The flashpoint is the lowest temperature at which a volatile material, like fragrance oil or essential oil, can vaporise to form an ignitable mixture in air. When adding fragrance to wax, it's crucial to do so below its flashpoint for safety and to prevent the scent from burning off.
Flickering/sputtering flame
A flickering or sputtering flame indicates an inconsistent burn. This can be caused by various factors, including an improperly sized wick, air currents, impurities in the wax, or an excessive fragrance load. A stable flame is essential for an even melt pool and optimal fragrance throw.
Fragrance load
Fragrance load refers to the percentage of fragrance oil or essential oil added to the wax by weight. It directly impacts the scent strength, both cold throw and hot throw. Exceeding the recommended fragrance load can lead to wick issues, poor burn performance, and even safety concerns.
an example of an inconsistent flame - the wick is too big and thus a safety hazard
Fragrance oil
Fragrance oil is a synthetic or natural blend of aromatic chemicals designed to impart scent to candles. Unlike essential oils, fragrance oils are specifically formulated for candle making and typically offer a wider range of scents and better hot throw performance. They are a key component for creating scented candles.
Frosting
Frosting is a common occurrence in natural wax candles, particularly soy wax, where a white, crystalline layer forms on the surface or sides. While purely cosmetic and not affecting burn quality, it can be minimised by controlling pour temperature and cooling conditions, or by using specific wax blends.
our Neroli & Ylang Ylang fragrance oil
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Candle Making Terms: G-L
Continuing our comprehensive candle making glossary, this section clarifies essential candle terms and definitions from G to L. Understanding these candle production terms is crucial for refining your craft and achieving professional results.
Heat gun
A heat gun is a versatile tool that emits a stream of hot air, similar to a powerful hairdryer but at much higher temperatures. In candle making, it's primarily used to smooth the surface of a freshly poured candle, eliminating minor imperfections, air bubbles, or wet spots that may appear during the cooling process. It can also help improve jar adhesion by gently warming the container or fixing jump lines.
Hot throw
Hot throw refers to the strength and diffusion of a candle's scent when it is actively burning. This is arguably the most critical aspect for a scented candle, as it dictates the aromatic experience for the user. Achieving an excellent hot throw depends on several factors, including the quality and fragrance load of the oil, the wax type, the wick size, and sufficient cure time to allow the fragrance to bind effectively with the wax.
a heat gun in action
Jump lines
Jump lines are horizontal lines or rings that can sometimes appear on the sides of a container candle, particularly noticeable in clear jars. These lines are typically caused by uneven cooling of the wax layers, often when the wax is poured at inconsistent temperatures or if the candle cools too rapidly. While purely cosmetic, they can be minimised by maintaining consistent pour temperature and allowing slow, controlled cooling.
Jar adhesion
Jar adhesion describes how effectively the wax adheres to the inner walls of the container or jar. Good jar adhesion is vital for a visually appealing candle, as it prevents the formation of "wet spots" where the wax pulls away from the glass, creating an undesirable air pocket. Factors influencing strong adhesion include the pour temperature, jar cleanliness, and the cooling rate of the wax.
an example of a candle that has poor glass adhesion, otherwise known as 'wet spots'
"I started making candles during the pandemic, and it has truly transformed my home. The process is so satisfying, and I enjoy customising scents for different occasions."
Candle Making Terms: M-P
This section continues our candle making glossary, defining essential candle terms and definitions from M to P. Understanding these candle production terms is crucial for mastering your craft and achieving professional results.
Melt point
The melt point is the specific temperature at which a solid wax begins to transform into a liquid state. Different wax types, such as soy or paraffin, have distinct melt points, which directly influence the optimal pour temperature and the overall burn characteristics of the candle. Knowing your wax's melt point is essential for proper fragrance oil incorporation and achieving a consistent melt pool.
Memory burn
The memory burn refers to the initial burn of a candle, which establishes the maximum diameter of the melt pool. It's vital to allow the melt pool to reach the edges of the container during this first burn to prevent tunnelling in subsequent uses. This ensures an even burn and optimal fragrance throw throughout the candle's life.
an example of mushrooming
Mottling
Mottling is a distinctive, crystalline pattern that can appear on the surface or sides of a wax candle, often resembling snowflakes or starbursts. This effect is typically seen in paraffin wax and is influenced by the cooling process and specific additives. Some makers intentionally create mottling for its unique aesthetic appeal.
Mushrooming
Mushrooming describes the carbon build-up that forms a mushroom-like shape at the tip of a wick during burning. This often indicates that the wick is too large for the wax and fragrance oil combination, leading to an excessive flame and potential soot. Trimming the wick regularly helps prevent mushrooming and ensures a cleaner burn.
Over-wicking
Over-wicking occurs when the chosen wick is too large or too robust for the candle's diameter and wax type. This results in an excessively large flame, a very deep melt pool, and a rapid burn rate. Over-wicking can lead to safety hazards, excessive soot, and a diminished fragrance throw as the scent burns off too quickly.
Pillar candle
A pillar candle is a freestanding candle designed to hold its shape without the need for a container. These candles typically use harder wax blends, often with additives, to ensure structural integrity as the wax melts. The wick must be carefully selected to create a self-contained melt pool that doesn't leak.
a candle that is over-wicked
Pour temperature
The pour temperature is the specific temperature at which melted wax is poured into a container or mold. This temperature is critical as it significantly impacts the candle's final appearance, affecting adhesion to the container, surface smoothness, and the likelihood of frosting or sinkholes. Optimal pour temperature varies by wax type.
Potting out
Potting out refers to the act of extinguishing a candle flame. While simply blowing out a candle is common, using a wick snuffer is recommended. This method safely smothers the flame, preventing smoke and the lingering smell of burnt wick, thus preserving the fragrance of your candle.
a wick snuffer and wick trimmer
Shop Our Favourite Wax For Beginners
Candle Making Terms: R-S
This section continues our comprehensive candle making glossary, clarifying essential candle terms and definitions from R to S. Mastering these candle production terms is key to refining your craft and achieving professional results.
Re-pour not blending
This issue occurs when a second pour of wax is added to a candle (often to fix a sink hole), but it doesn't seamlessly blend with the initial wax layer. This can result in a visible line or separation, impacting the candle's aesthetic. Getting both wax layers at similar, appropriate temperatures during the re-pour helps achieve a smooth, blended finish.
Scent throw
Scent throw refers to the ability of a candle to release its fragrance into a room. It covers both cold throw (unlit scent) and hot throw (lit scent). Achieving optimal scent throw depends on the quality and fragrance load of the oil, the wax type, and the wick size, all contributing to the overall aromatic experience.
Seeding
Seeding in candle making refers to the process where tiny wax crystals form within the melted wax as it cools, giving it a cloudy or textured appearance. This can be a natural characteristic of certain wax types, particularly soy wax, and is often influenced by the cooling process and pour temperature.
a good scent throw is crucial for a successful candle!
Single pour
A single pour refers to the technique of pouring all the melted wax into the container or mold in one continuous step. This method is often preferred for its simplicity and efficiency, aiming to create a smooth surface without needing a re-pour. Success with a single pour relies heavily on precise pour temperature and controlled cooling.
Sink hole
A sink hole is a depression or cavity that forms in the surface of a candle as it cools and the wax contracts. These often appear around the wick and are common, especially with natural wax types. They can be prevented or fixed by using a double pour technique or by gently warming the surface with a heat gun.
Smoking candle flame
A smoking candle flame indicates an incomplete burn and can lead to soot marks on containers or walls. This is often caused by an over-wicked candle, a wick that is too long, or an excessive fragrance load. Trimming the wick to about 1/4 inch before each burn is crucial to prevent smoking and create a clean flame.
a candle with a sink hole
Soy wax
Soy wax is a natural, plant-based wax derived from soybeans. It's a popular choice for candle making due to its clean burn, renewable nature, and excellent fragrance retention. Soy wax typically has a lower melt point than paraffin wax and is known for producing candles with a creamy appearance.
Sustainably sourced
Sustainably sourced refers to candle making materials, such as wax or fragrance oils, that are obtained in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. This means the production process minimises harm to ecosystems, conserves natural resources, and supports fair labour practices. We prioritise offering sustainably sourced options.
one of our favourite soy waxes - SoyaLuna wax
"While I love the craft, it can be challenging to find the right materials. Sourcing high-quality wax and fragrance oils is crucial to ensure the best results! This is where NICS comes in!"
Candle Making Terms: T-W
This section concludes our comprehensive candle making glossary, defining essential candle terms and definitions from T to W. Mastering these candle production terms is key to refining your craft.
Tealight
A tealight is a small, self-contained candle typically poured into a metal or plastic cup. Used for warmers or ambient light, they're perfect for testing fragrance throw or creating small samples.
Top notes
Top notes are the initial, lightest scents in a fragrance oil blend. They create the first impression of your candle's aroma, significantly contributing to the cold throw.
Tunnelling
Tunnelling occurs when a candle burns down its centre, leaving unmelted wax around the container edges. Caused by under-wicking or insufficient first burn, it wastes wax and reduces fragrance throw.
Under-wicking
Under-wicking means using a wick too small for the candle's diameter or wax type. This results in a small melt pool, leading to tunnelling and poor hot throw.
candles that have fallen victim to tunnelling!
Vegan & vegan-friendly
Vegan and vegan-friendly products are free from animal-derived ingredients and animal testing. For candle making, this means using plant-based wax like soy or coconut, and appropriate fragrance oils.
Viscosity
Viscosity refers to a fluid's resistance to flow, essentially its thickness. In candle making, wax viscosity affects how smoothly the wax is poured, fragrance dispersion, and the surface finish.
Votive
A votive is a small, freestanding candle designed to liquefy completely within a snug-fitting holder. These pillar-style candles require specific wax blends to maintain structural integrity.
Wick trimming
Wick trimming involves cutting the wick to an optimal length, typically 1/4 inch, before each burn. This prevents mushrooming, excessive sooting, and creates a clean, stable flame for better fragrance throw.
a wooden wick being trimmed (always remove florals before lighting).
Wick clip
A wick clip is a small metal tab crimped onto the bottom of the wick. Its purpose is to secure the wick to the base of the container, preventing it from floating in the melt pool.
Wick holder
A wick holder is a tool used to keep the wick perfectly centred and upright during the wax pour and cooling process. This prevents an even burn and stops the flame from leaning.
Wicking
Wicking is the critical process of selecting and properly placing the correct wick for your candle. It's paramount for achieving an optimal melt pool, consistent burn, and effective fragrance throw based on wax type and container size.
one example of a DIY wick holder - a popsicle with a hole in the centre for the wick to be pulled through
Key Takeaways On Candle-Making Terms
Understanding candle making terminology builds the foundation for creating exceptional candles, from mastering proper burn rates to achieving optimal hot and cold throw for your fragrances.
Essential candle terms like jar adhesion, melt point, and proper wicking directly impact your candle's performance, appearance, and safety, helping you troubleshoot common issues like tunnelling and wet spots.
The initial burn (memory burn) should reach approximately 2-3mm from the container edges within 4 hours to prevent tunnelling. Proper wick trimming to 1/4 inch before each burn prevents mushrooming and excessive soot.
Natural waxes like soy require specific techniques such as controlled pour temperatures (around 84°C for soy) and often benefit from 1-2 weeks of cure time to maximise fragrance binding and scent throw.
Take Your Candle Making Journey To The Next Level With Confidence
Understanding this comprehensive candle making glossary gives you the tools to approach your craft with greater precision and creativity. By mastering these candle terms and definitions, you can confidently select the right wax, wick, and fragrance oil, troubleshoot common issues, and achieve consistent, high-quality results.
We believe that a well-informed maker is a successful maker. This knowledge not only improves your technical skills but also allows you to truly transform your candle making journey, turning raw materials into beautifully crafted candles. With NI Candle Supplies, you have a partner dedicated to providing both premium materials and the essential candle making terminology to support your passion.
FAQs
What are the parts of a candle called?
A candle typically consists of several key components working in harmony. The primary parts include the wax, which serves as the fuel; the wick, a braided material that draws the melted wax upwards to sustain the flame; and often a container or mould to hold the wax. Other important elements can include fragrance oil for scent, dye for colour, and a wick clip or metal tab at the base of the wick to secure it.
What is the 84 rule in candle making?
The "84 rule" is a common guideline, particularly for soy wax container candles, suggesting that the ideal pour temperature for the wax is around 84°C (183°F). Pouring at this temperature aims to minimise issues like wet spots, sink holes, and frosting, promoting better adhesion to the container and a smoother surface finish. However, optimal pour temperature can vary slightly depending on the specific wax blend and desired outcome.
What is the 4 hour rule for candles?
The "4 hour rule" refers to the recommended duration for the initial burn of a candle. During the first burn, it's crucial that the melt pool extends to about 2-3mm from the edge of the container. This establishes the candle's "memory burn" and helps prevent tunnelling in subsequent uses, ensuring an even burn and optimal fragrance throw throughout the candle's life. The candle should then reach a full melt pool on the second or third burn, ensuring it is not over-wicked as it burns lower down.
NI Candle Supplies specialises in high-quality candle-making materials, offering a diverse range of waxes, wicks, and fragrances. Committed to inspiring creativity, we provide resources for beginners and seasoned artisans. Our mission is to empower candle makers with quality products and expert guidance, fostering a vibrant community of enthusiasts who share a passion for craftsmanship and creativity.
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