Adding fragrance to candles is a popular way to enhance their appeal and create a pleasant atmosphere when they are burned. Here are the steps to effectively add fragrance to your candles:
-
Choose the Right Fragrance Oil:
- Select high-quality fragrance oils specifically designed for candle making. These oils are designed to disperse evenly and retain their scent when the candle is burned.
- Consider the type of fragrance you want. There are numerous options available, including floral, fruity, herbal, and seasonal scents.
-
Calculate the Fragrance Load:
- To ensure a safe and effective fragrance level in your candles, follow recommended fragrance load guidelines. Generally, it's advisable to use around 6-10% fragrance oil by weight of the wax, but this can vary depending on the type of wax and the specific fragrance oil.
-
Prepare Your Workspace:
- Set up a clean and well-ventilated workspace to prevent contamination and ensure safety.
- Use heat-resistant containers and equipment for melting the wax and mixing the fragrance.
-
Melt the Wax:
- Heat your candle wax to the appropriate temperature. The ideal melting point varies depending on the type of wax you're using. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- Use a double boiler or a microwave to melt the wax slowly and evenly. Stir it occasionally for even melting.
-
Add Fragrance Oil:
- Once the wax is fully melted, remove it from the heat source.
- Add the fragrance oil to the melted wax and stir thoroughly. Make sure the fragrance is evenly distributed throughout the wax.
-
Pour the Candle:
- Carefully pour the fragranced wax into your candle containers or molds. Ensure a consistent pour and avoid introducing air bubbles.
- If you're using multiple layers of wax with different fragrances or colors, pour each layer after the previous one has partially set.
-
Allow to Cool and Set:
- Let the candles cool and set at room temperature. This may take several hours or overnight, depending on the size of your candles.
-
Trim the Wick:
- Trim the wick to the desired length (usually about 1/4 inch above the surface of the candle) before burning.
-
Cure the Candles:
- Allow your candles to cure for at least a few days or up to two weeks. This helps the fragrance to fully bind with the wax for a stronger scent when burned.
-
Label and Store:
- Label your candles with the fragrance name and other relevant information.
- Store your candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the fragrance.
Remember that the quality and type of fragrance oil, as well as the wax you use, can affect the strength and longevity of the scent in your candles. For best results, use our Candle & Craft Bar range of fragrances oils. Experiment with different combinations to achieve the desired fragrance intensity. Always prioritize safety when working with hot wax and fragrance oils to prevent accidents.