Can I? Can't I? We receive countless inquiries about what can and cannot be done with candles. Here, we aim to shed light on the considerations surrounding the incorporation of extra elements into your candles. Wickii always advises candle makers to prioritise safety by sticking to traditional ingredients. Adding anything beyond wax, fragrance, and wick carries inherent risks, even for seasoned artisans. It's advisable to consult your insurance provider and secure policies tailored to your needs for added security and peace of mind. Read on to discover your options regarding crystals, dried flowers, glitter, and colourants.
Crystals
We love a bit of energy healing just as much as the next person, but when it comes to crystals in candles there are a couple of things to consider.
Size matters
The size of the crystal significantly impacts the candle's burn. Large crystals crowning the candle's top may shift position as the melt pool develops, potentially interfering with the wick and extinguishing it prematurely. Many candle care guidelines recommend removing crystals before lighting the candle to mitigate this risk. Smaller crystal chips are gaining popularity as they pose less risk, settling at the bottom of the melt pool without obstructing the wick.
Certain crystals may not withstand high temperatures, posing burn hazards or altering colour when exposed to heat. Ensure that any crystals used are suitable for candle-making and genuine rather than artificial gemstones, capable of enduring the candle's heat.
Placement is everything
Glitter
Adding a touch of glamour with glitter can inject sparkle into your candles, albeit with fire safety considerations. Opt for fine glitter over larger pieces to minimise fire risks. When incorporating glitter, select a wick size larger than usual to prevent clogging and ensure an effective burn.
Work smarter not harder
The functionality of your candle will require a bit of attention. Testing the burn of your candle is imperative. Once you have worked glitter into your wax, you will most likely need to choose the wick size up from what you would usually work with for that jar. This will prevent the wick from clogging, overworking and drowning and will give you a more effective burn.
Colour
Coloured candles are trendy and impactful, offering a statement-making aesthetic. When selecting colourants, choose between liquid, chip, and powdered dyes based on your preferences and desired outcome. Conduct colour testing by pouring a small amount of wax onto a white surface and observing the cooled colour to achieve your desired hue.
Both classic and flamboyant candle styles have their appeal, but safety should always remain paramount. When embellishing candles with sparkles or gems, exercise caution and adhere to proper precautions. Warning labels and candle care cards are essential additions to ensure consumer safety and compliance with legal requirements.
The information provided here is solely opinion and not intended as professional advice. Wickii assumes no liability for any loss, damage, or injury resulting from failure to follow correct instructions. Professional testing should precede the sale of products, and comprehensive insurance coverage is essential to safeguard against potential risks associated with candle embellishments.
