Wicks Need Help

[YAMS]

I am probably the newest member and totally new to candle making.   I see so much on using the correct wicks.   How can you tell when a wick is not performing properly?   I started using 464 soy wax and have only used ECO 10 & 14 wicks.  I just ordered IGI 4627 I ordered the wicks recommended for this wax by CS (LX Series).  What do I need to look for to determine if the wicks are doing their job?  What is the candle burning supposed to look like? Thanks a million.  This is truly a science.   

[Trappeur]

What jars are you using?

 

Can you give us in details how you are making each one....temperatures, how much wax and how much oil you are  using, pouring temps, curing time...

 

Trappeur

Edited August 25, 2016 by Trappeur

[Scented]

It is a shame that some info from an older version of this board doesn't exist, because there were pictures about the correct flame height and even photos of almost every kind of wick being tested in jars and the progress. The visual would have been invaluable. 

Wicking can get difficult because certain wicks work better with certain waxes, all of them can be affected by heavy or spicy scents (usually a wick up in size, sometimes two, sometimes there isn't a wick big enough ... I've made a scent like that and loved a scent a like that so there are fragrances that are tough to wick). You're looking for flame height along with the size and depth of the melt pool along with rate of burn ... just to be basic. 

You'll also want to consider how hot your container gets and how much hang up (wax on the sides of your container) there is ... as the candle burns and the hang up melts, does it drown the wick type of thing. 

This is how I came to determine what I use.

I bought three (probably more like one of every wick, because someone said it worked best for this wax or that wax) different kinds of wicks. I made candles for each wick, labeled them and burned the crap out of them. Then I made three more and tested something else out etc., because I didn't think to do it initially. 

You don't want a torch, you don't want the barest of flames and you want a wick that remains consistent throughout the entire burn of the candle. For me the flame is about an inch in height, maybe slightly more (I'm not great at estimating size). I can, however, tell you that LX gives a bigger flame in paraffin at least upon relighting and will eventually settle down into a nice flame.  

 

Edited August 26, 2016 by Scented

[TallTayl]

Scented, this sounds like a great idea for a series in the tutorial section!

i have had things like this rolling around in my head for a long, long time for my own blog and YouTube channel.

 

remember the great threads Top wrote about feather Palm wax? ZOMG those were absolutely fantastic.

[YAMS]

15 hours ago, Trappeur said:

What jars are you using?

 

Can you give us in details how you are making each one....temperatures, how much wax and how much oil you are  using, pouring temps, curing time...

 

Trappeur

I make it according to the specifics instructions for each wax.   I heat to the exact temperature instructed.  I add FO and dye accordingly too.   The 464 I pour at 135'F as per instructions.   I have used the wicks suggested by CS.  For a 1lb pour I use one or two blocks of dye.  The one thing I haven't done is wait 2 weeks before lighting.   As far as Paraffin or other blends I haven't tried it yet.  I have only used the Paraffin bars sold at Hobby Lobby.  But I am awaiting on my comfort blend order from CS for which I also ordered the LX series wicks in 3 different sizes.   

[YAMS]

10 hours ago, Scented said:

It is a shame that some info from an older version of this board doesn't exist, because there were pictures about the correct flame height and even photos of almost every kind of wick being tested in jars and the progress. The visual would have been invaluable. 

Wicking can get difficult because certain wicks work better with certain waxes, all of them can be affected by heavy or spicy scents (usually a wick up in size, sometimes two, sometimes there isn't a wick big enough ... I've made a scent like that and loved a scent a like that so there are fragrances that are tough to wick). You're looking for flame height along with the size and depth of the melt pool along with rate of burn ... just to be basic. 

You'll also want to consider how hot your container gets and how much hang up (wax on the sides of your container) there is ... as the candle burns and the hang up melts, does it drown the wick type of thing. 

This is how I came to determine what I use.

I bought three (probably more like one of every wick, because someone said it worked best for this wax or that wax) different kinds of wicks. I made candles for each wick, labeled them and burned the crap out of them. Then I made three more and tested something else out etc., because I didn't think to do it initially. 

You don't want a torch, you don't want the barest of flames and you want a wick that remains consistent throughout the entire burn of the candle. For me the flame is about an inch in height, maybe slightly more (I'm not great at estimating size). I can, however, tell you that LX gives a bigger flame in paraffin at least upon relighting and will eventually settle down into a nice flame.  

 

This is great information Scented.   I am actually printing it and keeping it with my notes!!!   Thank you 

[Candle guy]

Yams,

I use 4627 religiously! Zinc wicks are my go to for this wax. You will get less soot and a longer burn. Zincs have fantastic scent throw Imo.  Some heavier scents can be a pain in certain containers. What kind of jars are you using? I also began candle making using 464 soy. I hated the frosting but it had good scent throw if you let it cure for 2 weeks. I hated the wait also lol!!! I used eco in 464 but it was not my favorite. I tried cd wicks which work well. Premier wicks are also a good wick to try. Premier has many different sizes to choose from to help narrow things down for the best burn. What scents and containers are you using?

[YAMS]

2 hours ago, Candle guy said:

Yams,

I use 4627 religiously! Zinc wicks are my go to for this wax. You will get less soot and a longer burn. Zincs have fantastic scent throw Imo.  Some heavier scents can be a pain in certain containers. What kind of jars are you using? I also began candle making using 464 soy. I hated the frosting but it had good scent throw if you let it cure for 2 weeks. I hated the wait also lol!!! I used eco in 464 but it was not my favorite. I tried cd wicks which work well. Premier wicks are also a good wick to try. Premier has many different sizes to choose from to help narrow things down for the best burn. What scents and containers are you using?

Candle guy, I haven't used 4627 yet.  I should receive it Monday.   I am glad to hear to use it all the time.  That means you have experimented with it enough.   I use different types of containers.  I love to buy the square candle tumblers from the Dollar Store (love how cheap they are and actually look great with a ribbon and a label.  They are 8 oz and about 2 1/2 in diameter.  I also use Mason Jars the 8oz and 10 oz.  I also bought 4 oz tin jars with lid but I haven't used those yet.  I haven't gotten any hot throw with 464 which is why I am switching but in honesty I haven't let them cure for 2 weeks.  Do you recommend I go straight to Zinc wicks or should I attempt Premier?  With either one how do I gage the appropriate sizes?  I purchase my wicks from CS because they have the Wick Guide to recommend depending on wax and jars but I haven't found that I get any help with other wicks.  I have only used CS FOs.  Japanese Cherry Blossom, Clean Cotton (NO HOT THROW at all), Amber Noir, Mediterranean Fig (which I love) and Very Vanilla.  I am soooo new at this and it can be overwhelming but I am excited about learning.  Thanks for guiding this newbie's hand :-)

[Candle guy]

Yams,

In 4627 people will tell you to use htp wicks because that's what suppliers recommend. I have never had much luck with those plus they soot a lot. I use 4627 in 8oz square mason jars. I have tried wicking larger containers with this wax but ran into issues. This is not to say that you will run into issues but I have. I may try again in the future but for now I use parasoy blends in larger containers. I will warn you that 4627 is very gooey and sloppy! It is a strong scented wax but very sloppy to use. I recommend using a metal spatula that you don't want anymore to cut into it and it's easier to slide the wax off with it. You also will need paper towels or old rags to wipe your hands off with. You could use disposable gloves I am sure. The wax in my experience will almost always leave wetspots on the containers and sometimes little bubbles. Cosmetically it is definitely not the best looking wax. It will take liquid dye well and will smell amazing. I use it all of the time because my customers love strong scented candles and don't really care about the cosmetic aspect. 

 

Now 464 wax I would try premiers and cd wicks. I had a lot of trouble with 464 myself so I gave up on it. Frosting, sinkholes, and 2 week cures did me in. Sometimes it's good to focus on just 1 wax at a time until you get into the swing of things so to speak. Learn how to use 4627 and get some successes under your belt and build that confidence. Since you use candle science, get their Mac apple, cranberry marmalade, honey suckle jasmine and grapefruit mangosteen. You will thank me later lol. Lastly, if you have any questions just message me. Hope that helps? 

[Candle guy]

Yams,

Sorry I forgot to answer a couple questions for you. I never use candle science wick chart because it seems to be off a little. I like Rustic Essentuals chart. Wick guides are only a general kind of chart. They will land you in the ball park for where to start. Every wax, fragrance, amount of dye and so on will ultimately determine which wick. You will have to test and test and test. This does consume time and lots of money believe me. Problem with all of this is its addictive. I would start off with Zincs for 4627.

[YAMS]

40 minutes ago, Candle guy said:

Yams,

In 4627 people will tell you to use htp wicks because that's what suppliers recommend. I have never had much luck with those plus they soot a lot. I use 4627 in 8oz square mason jars. I have tried wicking larger containers with this wax but ran into issues. This is not to say that you will run into issues but I have. I may try again in the future but for now I use parasoy blends in larger containers. I will warn you that 4627 is very gooey and sloppy! It is a strong scented wax but very sloppy to use. I recommend using a metal spatula that you don't want anymore to cut into it and it's easier to slide the wax off with it. You also will need paper towels or old rags to wipe your hands off with. You could use disposable gloves I am sure. The wax in my experience will almost always leave wetspots on the containers and sometimes little bubbles. Cosmetically it is definitely not the best looking wax. It will take liquid dye well and will smell amazing. I use it all of the time because my customers love strong scented candles and don't really care about the cosmetic aspect. 

 

Now 464 wax I would try premiers and cd wicks. I had a lot of trouble with 464 myself so I gave up on it. Frosting, sinkholes, and 2 week cures did me in. Sometimes it's good to focus on just 1 wax at a time until you get into the swing of things so to speak. Learn how to use 4627 and get some successes under your belt and build that confidence. Since you use candle science, get their Mac apple, cranberry marmalade, honey suckle jasmine and grapefruit mangosteen. You will thank me later lol. Lastly, if you have any questions just message me. Hope that helps? 

Candle Guy I can't thank you enough for all of this information.   First, I think I should probably stick with a specific jar size and wax.  I am trying to accomplish too much for not knowing anything yet :-).  Great idea about parasoy for larger containers.  I will do that.  YES!!!  I have read about how messy 4627 can be.  I am actually a little scared about trying it but I will anyway :-)   I read someone's post a few days ago where she said that she places all of her 4627 in a painter's bucket (like from Home Depot) she says it makes scooping it out much easier. Maybe I should try that also.  Lol.   I work a little messy to begin with so I can imagine using a messy and gooie wax.  I am with you as far as the strong scent.  If I have to choose I would prefer to have a very nice smelling candle than the almost perfect aesthetic aspect (that doesn't mean I don't love the smooth, even and milky look of soy candles which is why I started with 464 to begin with).  Thank you for the FO suggestions.  Those will be in my shopping cart soon.   I can't thank you enough for the tips and tricks.  

[YAMS]

40 minutes ago, Candle guy said:

Yams,

In 4627 people will tell you to use htp wicks because that's what suppliers recommend. I have never had much luck with those plus they soot a lot. I use 4627 in 8oz square mason jars. I have tried wicking larger containers with this wax but ran into issues. This is not to say that you will run into issues but I have. I may try again in the future but for now I use parasoy blends in larger containers. I will warn you that 4627 is very gooey and sloppy! It is a strong scented wax but very sloppy to use. I recommend using a metal spatula that you don't want anymore to cut into it and it's easier to slide the wax off with it. You also will need paper towels or old rags to wipe your hands off with. You could use disposable gloves I am sure. The wax in my experience will almost always leave wetspots on the containers and sometimes little bubbles. Cosmetically it is definitely not the best looking wax. It will take liquid dye well and will smell amazing. I use it all of the time because my customers love strong scented candles and don't really care about the cosmetic aspect. 

 

Now 464 wax I would try premiers and cd wicks. I had a lot of trouble with 464 myself so I gave up on it. Frosting, sinkholes, and 2 week cures did me in. Sometimes it's good to focus on just 1 wax at a time until you get into the swing of things so to speak. Learn how to use 4627 and get some successes under your belt and build that confidence. Since you use candle science, get their Mac apple, cranberry marmalade, honey suckle jasmine and grapefruit mangosteen. You will thank me later lol. Lastly, if you have any questions just message me. Hope that helps? 

Candle Guy I can't thank you enough for all of this information.   First, I think I should probably stick with a specific jar size and wax.  I am trying to accomplish too much for not knowing anything yet :-).  Great idea about parasoy for larger containers.  I will do that.  YES!!!  I have read about how messy 4627 can be.  I am actually a little scared about trying it but I will anyway :-)   I read someone's post a few days ago where she said that she places all of her 4627 in a painter's bucket (like from Home Depot) she says it makes scooping it out much easier. Maybe I should try that also.  Lol.   I work a little messy to begin with so I can imagine using a messy and gooie wax.  I am with you as far as the strong scent.  If I have to choose I would prefer to have a very nice smelling candle than the almost perfect aesthetic aspect (that doesn't mean I don't love the smooth, even and milky look of soy candles which is why I started with 464 to begin with).  Thank you for the FO suggestions.  Those will be in my shopping cart soon.   I can't thank you enough for the tips and tricks.  

[YAMS]

41 minutes ago, Candle guy said:

Yams,

Sorry I forgot to answer a couple questions for you. I never use candle science wick chart because it seems to be off a little. I like Rustic Essentuals chart. Wick guides are only a general kind of chart. They will land you in the ball park for where to start. Every wax, fragrance, amount of dye and so on will ultimately determine which wick. You will have to test and test and test. This does consume time and lots of money believe me. Problem with all of this is its addictive. I would start off with Zincs for 4627.

Perfect.  I hadn't found any other wick chart out there so I stuck to just CS.  I will definitely look into it now.  As far as it being addictive I concur with that.   I work with Epoxy Resin and make jewelry (beautiful work :-)) and it is addictive also what I am trying to say is DID I REALLY NEED ANOTHER ADDICTION???? Not!!!  But heck I am loving it.  ALSO - where do you get your Zinc wicks from?  Thanks a million  

[Candle guy]

Np anytime you need some help just message me. Don't let 4627 scare you it's not all that bad. Have fun

[Candle guy]

Yams,

 

I get my wicks mostly from Peak. I try to stay with the same supplier for each brand of wick. Sometimes other suppliers will provide you their version that they get from other suppliers and it winds up being a little different. My cdn wicks I get from a different supplier and premiers from Aztec. Your welcome it's no problem