If you’ve ever poured a candle only to find the surface rough, uneven, or even cracked, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common challenges candle makers face, particularly when working with natural waxes like soy. The good news? These imperfections are usually easy to fix — and they don’t affect how your candle burns.
Below, we’ll explore the most effective fixes and prevention tips, including those frequently recommended by experienced makers in the candle-making community.
Why do candle tops turn rough or crack?
Surface issues can be caused by several factors:
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Cooling too quickly – wax contracts as it cools, leading to cracks.
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Pouring too hot or too cool – pour temperature directly affects surface finish.
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Trapped air bubbles – stirring or pouring too fast can create rough spots.
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Natural wax behaviour – soy and coconut waxes are especially prone to surface imperfections.
Key fixes recommended by makers
Here are some of the most reliable ways to smooth and prevent rough or cracked candle tops:
1. Heat gun or hairdryer
Reddit users often suggest gently reheating the candle’s surface with a heat gun or hairdryer. Move it in a sweeping motion a few centimetres above the candle — just enough to melt the top layer so it self-levels and sets smooth again.
2. Perfect your pour temperature
Plant-based waxes like soy or coconut usually pour best between 54–66°C (130–150°F). Each wax and supplier can vary, so experiment in small test batches to find your sweet spot.
3. Pre-warm your vessels
In cooler climates or during winter, pre-warming jars or moulds prevents the wax from cooling too fast and helps avoid cracking.
4. Control the cool-down environment
Let candles cool in a warm, draft-free room. Avoid windows, air conditioning, or fans that cause uneven cooling.
5. Tap air bubbles out
After pouring, lightly tap your container to release any trapped air before the wax sets. This helps minimise rough surfaces.
6. Try a second pour
For deeper cracks or sinkholes, save a little wax from your original batch. Once the candle has cooled and contracted, pour a thin top-up layer, then finish with a heat gun if needed.
Important notes
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Normal for natural waxes – roughness and cracks are most common with soy and other plant-based waxes. Minor imperfections are completely normal.
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Doesn’t affect burn – small surface issues generally don’t impact how the candle performs.
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Check your wax type – if problems are persistent, review your supplier’s recommendations. Some blends are more resistant to cracking.
Quick reference table
| Fix | Description |
|---|---|
| Heat gun or hairdryer | Gently remelt top layer to smooth surface |
| Pour at proper temp | Use the wax’s recommended pour range |
| Warm vessels | Prevent sudden temperature changes |
| Control cool-down | Allow candles to set in a warm, draft-free space |
| Tap out bubbles | Release trapped air after pouring |
| Second pour | Fill cracks/sinkholes, then smooth with heat gun |
Final thoughts
Surface imperfections happen to everyone, even seasoned candle makers. The key is knowing how to fix them quickly and how to prevent them next time. Whether you re-melt the surface with a heat gun, experiment with pour temperatures, or pre-warm your jars, you’ll soon achieve those flawless, professional-looking tops your candles deserve.
