Although a wick is often overlooked when people purchase candles, they are still very important. However, consumers tend to be more interested in the shape, color, and fragrance of candles. The wick is the most important part of the whole burning process.
A wick’s sole purpose is to provide wax (fuel) to the flame. The wick also acts as a fuel pump, drawing the liquefied wax into the flame for burning. Because the amount of wax (fuel) that gets into the flame will depend on the size and shape of the wick, the size of the wick is important. The flame of the candle will produce soot and flare if the wick is pumping too much fuel (wax). However, if the fuel (wax) is not drawn enough, the flame will sputter.
Have you ever wondered about the purpose of a Wick?
The wick of a candle works in a way that a miniature pipe pulls melted wax into the flame. When the wax meets the flame’s contact point, where oxygen is present, it vaporizes. A combustion process takes place. However, the scent in the air is intangible. You can feel its presence along with heat, light, and heat, which we perceive as the flame.
Types of Wicks
Premium quality wicks are made of knitted plaited and braided fibers. This ensures consistent flames in all candles. Twisted wicks are generally of lower quality than braided or knitted wicks. Because of their loose construction, twisted wicks burn more quickly and provide more fuel to reach the flame faster. They are only used for specific purposes, such as birthday candles.
Flat Braid Wick These flat braids or knitted Wicks are made of three bundles of fiber. They are consistent in burning and curl back into the flame for self-trimming.
Square Braid wick -Square Braid wicks is bleached cotton, and they curl slightly while burning. These wicks are rounder and more robust than flat wicks.
Cored Wicks These wicks can be either knitted or braided. They also come with core material to keep the wick straight when it burns. Wicks can be made from different materials, such as metal, paper, or cotton.
Specialty Wicks These wicks are specifically designed to meet the specific burning requirements of a particular candle and its applications.
Wood Wicks- Wooden Wicks is a new addition to the candle market. There are two types: soft and hardwood. These wicks create a unique, unique burning experience. They make the candle’s flame crackle or sizzle.
How to select the right Wick for a Candle
The most important part of candle-making is choosing a wick. If your candle is too small it will have poor scent throw, tunneling, and a shorter burn time. Too big will cause flaring, smoking, and overheating.
Factors to Consider When Deciding on the Size of the Wick
The Candle’s Diameter this is the most important factor in determining the size of the candle. The larger the container, the bigger the wick should become.
Type of wax – There is a variety of wax types that can be used for candle making, including paraffin, gel, and palm. There are many properties to each wax type, including its melting point and density. The denser wax will melt faster and require thicker wicks.
The Amount of Perfume Oil and Coloring – The larger the wick, the more fragrance oil, and coloring are used in crafting candles.
The intended burn time of candle – Candles that are to be lit for short periods will need to be lit. A larger wick might be required if the candle is to be burned for shorter periods (1.5-2.5 hours). This is because the candle’s wax must melt outwards, melting to the edges. The wax melt pool will then form before it begins to burn downwards. The candle may not be able to form a full wax melt pool if it is burned for shorter periods. A larger wick will allow the pool to grow faster.
How Do We Choose Our Wicks?
Aussie Candle Supplies are the best shop for candle wicks. We offer high quality wicks for candle making applications. Find the right wick for your candle, we ensure the best possible burn by selecting the right wick type for each fragrance, wax type, and container.
