Wick selection in candle making is one of the crucial decisions but is often considered trivial by most people. People may not realize that the wick plays an important role because it can affect how the candle burns, the aroma distribution, and the duration of the burn.
Although the most commonly used wick is the cotton wick, there are actually several types of candle wicks that you need to know more about. Each wick has its own differences and specialities. To find out more details, read this article until the end, and this will improve your ability in candle making.
1. Cotton Wicks
One of the most common wicks you will find on the market is definitely the cotton wick. As the name suggests, this wick is made of 100% woven cotton and is very suitable for candles that use various types of wax, especially soy wax, paraffin, and beeswax, because cotton is able to absorb wax efficiently and distribute it evenly.
This type of wick will work optimally for candles that have a diameter of 2 – 4 inches. For candles with a diameter above that, you may need to double the number of wicks or use a thicker wick in order to produce a strong flame to melt the entire surface of the wax.
When lit, this wick is able to produce a stable flame, so it is highly recommended for scented candles because it helps release the aroma perfectly without evaporating too quickly.
2. Wood Wicks
One of the specialities of candles that use wooden wicks is the sound of crackling wood burning when the candle is lit. Of course, this will create a calming sensory experience for anyone.
This type of wick is suitable for candles with wax characteristics that have a high melting point, such as soy wax and beeswax. This is because wooden wicks are able to produce a larger flame than cotton wicks.
Since a larger flame requires more space to burn the candle evenly, this type of wick will work optimally for candles with a diameter of 3 to 5 inches. Candles with cedar, sandalwood, or tobacco scents are very suitable for using this wick because the wick adds a natural and warm impression.
3. Stabilo Wicks
Candles with a high concentration of fragrance oil sometimes weaken the wick, causing it to sink and the flame to go out. Therefore, candles with concentrated fragrance oils require special wicks, and Stabilo wicks are the right choice.
Stabilo wicks are made of woven cotton, which has a stiff woven structure and ensures that the wick remains upright during burning. The use of this wick is ideal for candles with a diameter of 2 – 4 inches and is suitable for use with various types of wax, especially paraffin and soy wax, which are often combined with rich aromas.
4. Zinc Core Wicks
What distinguishes this wick from other types of wicks is the presence of zinc wire in the wick, which ensures that the wick will remain upright even when the wax around it has melted. This type of wick can provide a consistent flame and is ideal for jar candles, votives, and pillars that are more than 3 inches in diameter.
Because of its stiff nature like the Stabilo wick, this wick can also be an option for candles that have a high concentration of fragrance oil. With a zinc core wick, users can enjoy a candle that burns well without problems such as a sunken wick or a flame that is too small.
Improper wick selection can cause your candle to burn unevenly, prevent the aroma from being perfectly distributed, and affect the duration of the burn. By knowing the difference between cotton wicks, wood wicks, stabilo wicks, and zinc core wicks, you can choose the type of wick that best suits the needs and characteristics of the candle you are making.
Knowing this will have a significant impact on the final quality of the candle and the resulting experience for the user.