Tips & Tricks - How to fix Sinkholes when making Candles.

 

Candle making is a fun and satisfying hobby, but it can also be a bit tricky at times. One of the most common issues that candle makers encounter is the formation of a large hole, or "tunnel," down the center of the candle. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including improper wick size, uneven pouring of the wax, or even the type of wax being used. But don't worry - there are a few easy steps you can take to fix the problem and get your candle burning evenly.

 Traci Monroe-Valdez is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and other Affiliate Associates.

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Step 1: Identify the Cause The first step in fixing a large hole in your candle is to determine what caused the problem in the first place. There are a few common causes of holes in candles, including:

•  Wick size: (See my blog on correct wick sizing) If the wick is too large for the candle, it can cause the wax to melt unevenly and create a hole.
• Pouring temperature: If the wax is poured too hot or too cold, it can cause the candle to crack or form a hole.
• Type of wax: Certain types of wax, such as beeswax, may be more prone to tunneling than others.

Step 2: Trim the Wick If the hole is caused by an oversized wick, the first thing you'll want to do is trim the wick to the proper size for the candle. A good rule of thumb is to make sure the wick is no longer than 1/4 inch for each inch of the candle's diameter.

Step 3: Melt the Wax If the hole is caused by uneven pouring or the wax being poured at the wrong temperature, you can try melting the wax around the hole and smoothing it out. You can melt the wax with a heat gun or a hair dryer being carful not to blow the melted wax out of the jar. Light the candle and let it burn for about 15 minutes, or until the wax around the edges of the hole starts to melt. Once the wax is melted, use a spoon or spatula to carefully spread the wax over the hole, smoothing out the surface of the candle.

Step 4: Allow the Wax to Cool and Solidify Once you've smoothed out the wax, blow out the candle and allow the wax to cool and solidify. This will help to hold the newly melted wax in place and prevent the hole from reopening.

Step 5: Repeat as Needed As you continue to burn the candle, you may find that the hole starts to reappear. If this happens, simply repeat steps 3 and 4 to fix the hole.

By following these simple steps, you'll be able to fix a large hole in your candle and get it burning evenly again. Remember, making candles can be a little bit tricky, so don't be afraid to experiment with different wick sizes, pouring temperatures, and types of wax to see what works best for you. And remember to always take precautions when working with open flames. Keep the candle away from flammable materials, never leave it unattended, and keep it out of reach of children and pets.