Is my first candle alright?

soapylondon · May 9, 2016

Hello everybody. My name is Paula, I have made my first candle, I used Ecosoya CB 135 and the wicks included when I ordered the wax, cotton core large wicks according to the supplier.
Does the pool look the right size?
I am a cold process soap maker and I have also made body butters and other cosmetics but never attempted a candle before.
I have been wanting to make candles for such a long time, I have read lots and I am starting to understand that candle making is far more complex that I would have thought initially. I might have been lucky but my first attempt has performed well in the first two burns.
I would love to make candles in mason jars and similar, uncoloured and with a good fragrance, nice and simple. If I manage to combine the right container, wick and fragrance and they burn well I would like to share them with friends, that is my aim.
Thank you in advance.

ImageUploadedBySoap Making1462820480.975889.jpg

KristaY · May 9, 2016

Hi Paula! I started making candles and wax tarts last summer and it's so fun. I think I really like the instant gratification compared to waiting for CP to cure.

Your burn pool looks good if it's been lit for a short time. If you burn the candle for an hour or so does it melt the wax to edge of the container? If not, your wick might be too small. When you ordered the CB 135 (my favorite container wax, BTW!) did they ask what size container you would using? If the answer to both is yes, then all should be good!

TBandCW · May 9, 2016

The first burn for any candle sets the life of the candle, so make sure your wax pool is all the way to the edge of the jar so it doesn't tunnel when you burn it again.

soapylondon · May 11, 2016

Thank you for your feedback. I think the pool never quite reached the full container, I should have used two wicks as the jar widens below the neck.
I didn't tell the supplier what containers I was going to use so he sent large ones but I don't have more details. Next time I will order from a specialist candle supplier and ask for advice.
I am going to make some candles in mason jars, it seems easier. This one in the photo was made last night.
Overall I am happy with first attempt and I can see candle making becoming as addictive as soap making. I don't think I will ever buy a candle in a shop again.
I had some cosmetic fragrances that I was never going to use, I tried them but I decided I while back to only make soaps and creams with essential oils.
I checked all fragrances were suitable for candle making so they are going to a be of good in candles.
I have read essential oils not that suitable for candles and that it's a difficult one to master. I think I am happy to use up all fragrances first and continue to learn and learn.