Candles
Candle Setup
Trim the Wick: Before lighting, trim the hemp wick to about 1/4 inch (6-7 mm). This helps reduce soot and ensures a steady flame.
Level Surface: Place the candle on a heat-resistant, level surface away from drafts, fans, or air vents.
First Burn: Allow the candle to burn until the entire surface melts to the edges of the container. This prevents tunneling and ensures an even burn.
Burn Duration: Limit burning to 3-4 hours at a time to avoid overheating the wax and essential oils, which could alter their aroma.
Safety Considerations
Ventilation: Burn in a well-ventilated area, especially if using essential oils, as concentrated scents can be overwhelming in small spaces.
Monitor the Candle: Never leave the candle unattended while burning.
Keep Away from Flammables: Ensure the candle is far from curtains, papers, or other flammable materials.
Wax-Specific Tips
Tallow Candles: Tallow has a lower melting point and can emit a mild, natural scent. Use in cooler areas and avoid prolonged burns, as it may soften too quickly.
Beeswax Candles: Beeswax burns longer and cleaner, producing a subtle honey aroma. Ensure the wick is trimmed to minimize soot.
Coconut Wax Candles: Coconut wax has a smooth, even burn and holds essential oils well, providing strong fragrance throw. Keep wick centered to prevent uneven burning.
Essential Oils
Proper Blend: Ensure the essential oils are well-blended into the wax during candle making. Some oils can evaporate quickly if exposed to high heat.
Moderation: Avoid overloading the candle with essential oils, as excessive amounts can affect the burn quality or produce too much smoke.
Storage and Maintenance
Cool, Dry Place: Store candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration or melting.
Relight Carefully: Before relighting, remove any debris (e.g., wick trimmings or ash) from the wax pool to prevent uneven burns