By how much can I increase FO when using Stearic Acid?

[Aralins's Mommy]

Hello Everyone...

I purchased some stearic acid because I read here that it can increase the load of fragrance oil that a candle can retain. Without the stearic acid, the candle's hot throw is good but I want a killer throw when hot. The kind that makes your nose burn =) It's just a personal preference I suppose but, I really would like to make them even stronger if possible....So, my questions are 1) How much stearic acid should I add per pound and 2) By how much can I increase the FO?

This is what I'm using:

Wax: 464

Fragrance Oil: Peach (Candle Science)

Fragrance Oil Amount: 12% (2 oz/lb) (This is the max fragrance listed on the CS website)

Additives: 1 teaspoon Coconut Oil

Wick: ECO 14

Container: 8 oz aluminum tin

Any help would be greatly appreciated....

Thanks,

Rachel

Edited September 19, 2010 by Aralins's Mommy

[Judy, USMC]

I'm sure others will chime in ...

In my opinion, increasing the amount of FO does not necessarily improve the intensity of the scent throw. Finding a good oil that works well in your wax is the most critical when you are just starting out. That's why testing is so important. 12% is a heavy load ... so if it's not throwing well at 12% it won't throw any better at 15%. In fact some fragrances at that high a load can morph into something really obnoxious; like lemon turning into a fuel smell. Berries have been reputed to be strong throwers.

Just went to the review on the CS site about the Peach: "Beautiful, light, and fresh." " Medium-strong hot throw." Although it does have a 3-leaf rating some oils have naturally light notes and (to me) peach is light. Consider starting with a berry-type or a black cherry ... they can be strong.

Maybe some 464 users will add their experiences.

Edited September 19, 2010 by Judy, USMC
added CS info

[Aralins's Mommy]

Thanks Judy...

I have a feeling that this might be impossible as well...But a girl can hope...I made some paraffin candles that with almost no effort had the mooooost awesome hot throw. But, for so many reasons I totally prefer soy. I'm hoping that I can replicate that. Paraffin is not an option for me. I guess I might be chasing the impossible. Will have to wait and see.

[RichardLOZ]

Personally I found that adding steric actually decreased my HT in 464. I test & test & test & then test some more and if I cant get a good throw at 6% the oil gets relegated to the discontinued scents list.

Way too much time and effort being put into making a great candle, so I would like to ensure that I get a suitable reward when it comes to selling it. Considering that the FO is probably the most costly ingredient of any candle for us going past 6% is really not an option.

I even have a couple of oils that throw so well I have cut them to 5%.

JMHO

[Abbiepql]

I would spend more time researching really strong - full bodied FO before I would add more FO to my wax or any more additives. Like Judy said there are fragrances out there that will burn your nose hairs at 1oz per lb - which like Richard says makes sense economically - the point is to make a profit correct? I shudder when I hear of crafters/chandlers using 2 oz of oil in a wax because I have never seen an instance where it was worth it throw wise and it really affects your bottom line, and for what? Never heard of adding stearic to soy - Paraffin yes, maybe I missed something, but I would think it could bind scent in too high of levels and will increase the hardness of your soy causing some wicking issues?

[chrisinpa]

I use cs's peach at 7.5% in soy(85%) para blend and the throw is great both hot and cold.

Did you let the candle cure a few days before burning? It seem like you may want to try a larger container.

An 8oz tin can only do so much. The bigger the melt pool the stronger the throw.