Candle making is both an art and a science, and one of the key factors that contribute to a successful candle is the choice of the right wick. The type of wick you choose can affect the burn time, scent throw, and overall performance of your candle. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of the best wicks for candle making, covering various types and their suitability for different candle materials such as soy, beeswax, and paraffin.
What are the Different Types of Candle Wicks?
Candle wicks come in a variety of types, each designed to cater to specific needs and preferences. Here's a breakdown of some popular candle wicks:
Wooden WicksWooden wicks provide a unique aesthetic appeal with a crackling sound when burning. Crafted from sustainable materials, these wicks offer a timeless look and are a favorite among 94% of candle enthusiasts.
ECO, CD, CDN, LX, and HTP WicksThese wicks are often grouped together due to their similar braided, and cored natures. They come in various types such as ECO, CD, CDN, LX, and HTP. They are versatile and suitable for different candle materials, providing a consistent burn and even melt pool.
What Wick is Best for Soy Candles?
Soy candles have gained popularity for their clean-burning nature. The following wicks are well-suited for soy candles:
ECO Wicks
ECO wicks are designed specifically for soy wax, offering a clean and steady burn. They help create a full melt pool, ensuring an even release of fragrance.
CD and CDN Wicks
CD and CDN wicks are also suitable for soy candles, providing a stable flame and consistent burn. Their braided design contributes to a reliable performance.
Wooden Wicks
Wooden wicks, known for their aesthetic appeal, are also a great choice for soy candles. They burn at a lower temperature, allowing for an even release of fragrance.
What Wick is Best for Beeswax Candles?
Beeswax candles present a unique challenge in wicking. As mentioned earlier, the choice of the best wick for beeswax depends on various factors. Ultra core wicks and ECO wicks are among the options to consider, but extensive testing is crucial for optimal results.
Beeswax can be very difficult to wick. Factors such as when, where, and how it was obtained all play a factor in how it will perform in candles, wicks that burn at a higher temperature are typically best for Beeswax candles. With so many variations, it takes testing multiple varieties such as square-braided wicks or other cotton wick choices to find the best one for your candle.
What is the Best Wick for Paraffin Candles?
Paraffin candles, a popular choice for many candle makers, benefit from the following wicks:
ECO, CD, HTP, LX WicksECO, DC, HTP, and LX wicks have earned their stripes in the arena for the best wicks for paraffin candles.
- ECO wicks, known for their eco-friendly composition, are crafted from cotton and paper, offering a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious candle makers. They provide a clean and even burn, making them ideal for paraffin wax candles.
- CD wicks, on the other hand, boast a dual cotton construction, ensuring a steady flame and reduced carbon buildup.
- HTP wicks, with their flat braided cotton design, excel in minimizing mushrooming and soot.
- LX wicks, characterized by their cotton structure, contribute to a stable burn pool.
What Wick is Best for Wax Blends?
For wax blends such as soy/paraffin and soy coconut, cotton wicks are the most popular choices including CD wicks, HTP wicks, and more, listed above.
The Difference Between Wood and Cotton Wicks
Wooden and cotton wicks each have their unique qualities, appealing to different preferences among candle enthusiasts.
It's the truth; studies show that 94% of people love the sleek concept and timeless look of wood. With 34% of those customers still preferring cotton wicks, they still seemed to be open to testing out the smooth crackling sound from our crackling wooden wicks.
Not only are these wooden wicks handcrafted, but they also offer sustainability in candle making. Delicate slabs of wood are precisely cut to ensure an equal distribution of heat from the flame.
Although there are many factors to the scent throw of a candle, wicks can play a huge role. Cotton wicks will produce a tall flame at the tip of the wick. Wooden wicks typically burn lower and smolder over time. This helps warm the wax and release the aroma evenly, whereas a cotton wick soaks up the wax and uses it as fuel to burn constantly.
Is a Larger or Smaller Candle Wick Better?
The size of your wick matters, and different sizes offer varying levels of heat. Thicker wicks are ideal for wider candles or those made with harder waxes like beeswax or pillar waxes. They draw more fuel into the flame, creating more heat.
Thinner wicks won't burn as hot because they don’t deliver as much fuel to the flame. These wicks are ideal for candles with a narrower diameter, such as tapers or those made with softer waxes like soy.
Note: When wicks are made, they are coated with wax, and sometimes this wax can be thick and can make a smaller wick appear thicker than a larger wick.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wick is a crucial step in candle making, influencing burn time, fragrance release, and overall performance. Whether crafting soy, beeswax, or paraffin candles, understanding the characteristics of different wicks is essential. Consider factors such as aesthetics, sustainability, scent throw, and burn duration when selecting the best wick for your candles. Through experimentation and testing, you can find the perfect match that enhances the quality and appeal of your handmade candles.
