Candle making is an art that blends creativity, science, and a bit of trial and error. One of the most common questions among beginners and even seasoned candle makers is: How much oil should I use in my candles? The right amount of fragrance or essential oil can transform a simple candle into a beautifully scented masterpiece. However, too much or too little oil can affect the quality of your candles, impacting both the scent throw and burn performance.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using oils in candle making, from choosing the right type of oil to calculating the perfect amount for your candles.
Why the Right Amount of Oil Matters
The amount of oil you use in your candles is crucial for several reasons:
- Scent Throw: This refers to how well your candle distributes its fragrance. A well-scented candle should have a good cold throw (when the candle is unlit) and hot throw (when the candle is burning).
- Burn Quality: Adding too much oil can cause your candle to burn improperly, leading to issues like excessive smoking, uneven burning, or even the wick being drowned in melted wax.
- Wax Compatibility: Different waxes have varying oil absorption capacities. Using the correct oil-to-wax ratio ensures that your candle performs well, smells great, and lasts longer.
Types of Oils for Candle Making
Before diving into how much oil to use, it’s essential to understand the two main types of oils you can add to your candles:
1. Fragrance Oils
- What Are They? These are synthetically created oils designed specifically for candle making. They offer a wide range of scents, from floral and fruity to spicy and earthy.
- Pros: Strong scent throw, long-lasting, and available in countless varieties.
- Cons: May contain synthetic ingredients, which some prefer to avoid for natural candles.
Read more about Fragrance oil
2. Essential Oils
- What Are They? These are natural oils extracted from plants, flowers, and herbs. They are popular for their therapeutic benefits and are often used in aromatherapy.
- Pros: All-natural, eco-friendly, and great for creating a more subtle, natural scent.
- Cons: Weaker scent throw compared to fragrance oils, and some oils can be volatile when exposed to heat.
Read more about essential oil
How Much Oil to Use in Candle Making
The amount of oil you should use in your candles largely depends on the type of wax you’re using and the type of oil (fragrance or essential). Here’s a breakdown:
1. General Rule of Thumb
- A common guideline is to use 6-10% fragrance oil per pound of wax. This means for every 16 ounces (1 pound) of wax, you should use between 0.96 to 1.6 ounces of oil.
- For essential oils, you may need to use a slightly higher concentration to achieve a noticeable scent, usually around 7-12%.
2. How to Calculate the Oil-to-Wax Ratio
- Step 1: Determine the weight of your wax. For example, if you’re using 16 ounces of wax (1 pound), this will be your base.
- Step 2: Multiply the weight of your wax by the desired fragrance load percentage. For example:
- 6% fragrance load: 16 ounces x 0.06 = 0.96 ounces of oil.
- 10% fragrance load: 16 ounces x 0.10 = 1.6 ounces of oil.
3. Recommended Oil Percentages by Wax Type
| Wax Type | Recommended Oil Percentage |
|---|---|
| Soy Wax | 6-10% |
| Paraffin Wax | 8-10% |
| Beeswax | 5-7% |
| Coconut Wax | 8-12% |
| Gel Wax | 3-5% |
Note: These percentages are just guidelines. Some waxes can hold more oil, but exceeding the recommended amount can lead to performance issues.
How many drops of essential oil are for making candle
For essential oils, it’s generally recommended to use 30-40 drops of oil per 8 ounces of wax. However, the exact amount may vary depending on the strength of the oil and the desired scent level.
Our top choice of essential oil is Laguna Moon essential oil. It includes 20 -10 ml pieces of organic oil. These include bergamot, cedar, chamomile, cinnamon, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, orange, peppermint, rose, rosemary, sandalwood, tea tree, vanilla, and vetiver oils.
How many drops of fragrance oil are for making candle
For fragrance oils, the general rule is to use a 6-10% fragrance load, which means adding 1-1.5 ounces of fragrance oil per pound of wax. Again, the exact amount may vary depending on the specific fragrance oil and the desired scent level.
Our top choice of fragrance oil is P&J Happy Set of 6 Premium Fragrance Oil. It includes 6-1o ml pieces. These include Root Beer, Watermelon, Banana, Strawberry Lemonade, Orangesicle, and Bubble Gum.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Oil to Your Candles
Step 1: Melt Your Wax
- Use a double boiler to melt your wax gently. Avoid direct heat as it can scorch the wax and affect its scent-holding properties.
- Heat the wax to the recommended melting temperature (usually around 170-180°F for most waxes).
Step 2: Measure Your Oil
- Using a digital scale, accurately measure the amount of oil based on your desired fragrance load.
- For example, if using 1 pound of soy wax with a 10% fragrance load, measure out 1.6 ounces of fragrance oil.
Step 3: Add the Oil at the Right Temperature
- The optimal temperature for adding oils is typically around 170°F. Adding oil at this temperature ensures the wax fully absorbs the scent without it evaporating.
- Stir the oil thoroughly for at least 2 minutes to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Step 4: Pour Your Candle
- Once the oil is thoroughly mixed, pour the wax into your candle containers.
- Allow the candles to cure for 24-48 hours before burning to enhance the scent throw.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Too Much Oil
- While it might be tempting to add extra oil for a stronger scent, exceeding the recommended oil load can cause issues like sweating (when oil seeps out of the candle) or poor burning.
- Adding Oil at the Wrong Temperature
- If the wax is too hot, the oil may evaporate, resulting in a weaker scent. If it’s too cool, the oil may not fully bind with the wax.
- Not Stirring Enough
- Inadequate stirring can lead to an uneven scent distribution, causing some parts of the candle to be more fragrant than others.
Tips for Enhancing Scent Throw
- Use High-Quality Oils: Not all oils are created equal. Invest in high-quality fragrance or essential oils for the best results.
- Let Your Candles Cure: Allow your candles to cure for at least a couple of days before burning. This helps the scent bind better with the wax, resulting in a stronger throw.
- Choose the Right Wick: A properly sized wick ensures your candle burns evenly, which can improve scent dispersion.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Mix Essential Oils and Fragrance Oils?
Yes, you can blend essential oils with fragrance oils to create unique scents. Just be mindful of the total oil percentage to avoid overloading the wax.
2. Why Doesn’t My Candle Smell Strong Enough?
This could be due to using too little oil, not curing your candles long enough, or using a wax type that doesn’t hold scent well.
3. How Can I Make My Candles Smell Stronger?
Try increasing the fragrance load up to the maximum your wax can handle, or experiment with different oils and waxes.
Conclusion
Understanding how much oil to use in candle making is key to creating beautifully scented candles that burn well and last longer. Whether you’re using fragrance oils or essential oils, getting the right ratio can make all the difference. Remember to experiment with different waxes, oils, and techniques to find what works best for you.
Happy candle making! 🕯️✨
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Shop My Favorite Essentials for Candle Making: A Complete Guide for Stay-at-Home Moms
Candle making is a fantastic hobby that allows stay-at-home moms to tap into their creativity, relax, and even start a small business. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, having the right tools and materials is essential. Here’s a list of must-have candle making supplies available on Amazon to get you started. Each item includes a specific product example to make your shopping easier.
1. Wax
Wax is the foundation of any candle. Different types of waxes like soy, beeswax, and paraffin have their unique benefits.
Recommended Product:
- NatureWax C-3 Soy Wax
NatureWax C-3 Soy Wax on Amazon
This all-natural soy wax is perfect for beginners. It provides a smooth finish and excellent scent throw, ideal for container candles.
- Paraffin wax
Blended Waxes, Inc. offers a versatile paraffin wax suitable for various candle-making projects. This wax is fully refined and designed for creating both container and pillar candles, making it a versatile option for different types of candles.
- Palm wa
This palm wax can be used to make many types of candles, including pillars, votives, tapers, and tealights. It can be heated to 180 °F (82 °C). You may choose any fragrance for your candle or leave it unscented.
- Coconut wax
The True Coconut Premium All-Natural Coconut Wax Blend is a game-changer for DIY candle makers seeking a luxurious and eco-friendly option. This wax burns exceptionally clean, delivering an impressive fragrance throw that fills the room without any unpleasant residue. Its soft texture ensures excellent adhesion to glass jars, making it easy to create professional-looking candles.
2. Wicks
Choosing the right wick is crucial for an even burn. Cotton wicks are the most popular, but wood wicks can add a unique crackling sound.
Recommended Product:
- EricX Light 100 Piece Cotton Candle Wicks
EricX Light Candle Wicks on Amazon
These eco-friendly cotton wicks are pre-waxed and come in various sizes, making them perfect for different candle types.
3. Fragrance Oils
To add delightful scents to your candles, fragrance oils are a must. Make sure they are specifically formulated for candle making.
Recommended Product:
- P&J Trading Fragrance Oil Set
P&J Trading Fragrance Oil Set
This set includes a variety of scents like lavender, vanilla, and sandalwood. The oils are highly concentrated, ensuring a long-lasting fragrance.
4. Dye for Candle Coloring
If you want to add color to your candles, go for candle-specific dyes that won’t clog your wick.
Recommended Product:
- Candle Shop Candle Dye Flakes
Candle Dye Flakes
These dye flakes come in a variety of colors and are easy to use. Just a small amount can give you vibrant colors without affecting the candle’s performance.
5. Candle Molds
For creative shapes beyond standard jars, silicone molds are a versatile option.
Recommended Product:
- Cozyours Silicone Candle Molds
Cozyours Silicone Molds
These reusable molds come in various shapes like hearts and stars, perfect for making unique candles.
6. Candle Pouring Pot
A pouring pot is essential for safely melting and pouring your wax. It allows for easy control to prevent spills.
Recommended Product:
- CandleScience Aluminum Pouring Pot
CandleScience Pouring Pot
With a 2-pound capacity, this pouring pot is lightweight, durable, and perfect for handling hot wax.
7. Thermometer
Temperature is key in candle making. A thermometer ensures your wax is at the optimal temperature for adding fragrance and pouring.
Recommended Product:
- KT THERMO Deep Fry Thermometer with Clip
KT THERMO Deep Fry Thermometer
This stainless steel thermometer comes with a clip, making it easy to attach to your melting pot. It provides accurate readings between 50°F and 550°F, perfect for monitoring wax temperature. The large dial display ensures you can easily read the temperature, and the clip keeps it secure during the melting process.
Key Features:
- Temperature Range: 50°F to 550°F (10°C to 290°C)
- Clip Attachment: Securely clips onto the side of your pot for hands-free monitoring
- Large, Easy-to-Read Dial: Clear display for quick temperature checks
- Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Built to last and easy to clean
This thermometer is versatile and can also be used for cooking, making it a handy tool to have in your kitchen.
8. Heat Gun
A heat gun helps smooth out the tops of candles and fix imperfections like sinkholes.
Recommended Product:
- Chandler Tool Heat Gun
Chandler Tool Heat Gun
This compact heat gun is perfect for candle makers. It features two heat settings and a built-in stand.
9. Candle Labels
For a professional finish, especially if you’re selling your candles, consider using pre-made labels or printable sticker sheets.
Recommended Product:
- Avery Printable Round Labels
Avery Round Labels
These glossy labels are easy to customize and print, giving your candles a professional touch.
10. Candle Containers
Containers like tins, jars, and votives are essential for making container candles.
Recommended Product:
- Accguan 12 Pack Glass Candle Jars with Bamboo Lids
Accguan Glass Candle Jars
These elegant glass jars come with airtight bamboo lids, perfect for preserving the scent of your candles. They have a modern and minimalist design, making them ideal for creating gifts or selling candles. Each jar holds about 7 oz, which is perfect for medium-sized candles.
Key Features:
- Quantity: 12 jars per pack
- Capacity: 7 oz per jar
- Material: High-quality, heat-resistant glass with bamboo lids
- Design: Clear glass for a sleek look, ideal for showcasing candle colors
- Versatile Use: Great for candle making, storage, or home decor
- YIHANG 24 Pack Candle Tins
YIHANG Candle Tins
These tins come with lids and are perfect for travel candles or gift sets. They are durable and reusable.
11. Wick Centering Device
To ensure your wick stays perfectly centered as your candle sets, a centering device is a handy tool.
Recommended Product:
- DINGPAI Adjustable Candle Wick Holders (12-Pack)
DINGPAI Adjustable Wick Holders
These adjustable wick holders are designed to fit various container sizes, making them a versatile choice for candle making. Made from durable stainless steel, they can be adjusted to perfectly center your wick in jars, tins, and other containers. The adjustable arms allow you to secure multiple wick types, whether you’re using cotton or wooden wicks.
Key Features:
- Quantity: 12 holders per pack
- Material: High-quality stainless steel, built to last
- Adjustable Design: Expandable arms to fit containers from 2 inches to 4 inches wide
- Versatility: Suitable for single or double wicks, as well as wood wicks
- Ease of Use: Keeps wicks perfectly centered for an even burn
12. Safety Equipment
Safety should always come first. Protect yourself with gloves, aprons, and safety glasses when working with hot wax.
Recommended Product:
- NoCry Cut Resistant Gloves
NoCry Gloves
These gloves are heat-resistant and protect your hands from hot wax spills and burns.