Candlemakers-Toolbox
Candle Dictionary
Essential terms, abbreviations, and definitions for candle makers
Showing 400 of 400 terms
A
(ASTM)
American Society for Testing and Materials; publishes candle safety standards like ASTM F2417.
A substance added to wax to modify properties like hardness, opacity, or release; examples include stearic acid or vybar.
An experienced candle maker who has mastered techniques and may teach or innovate.
A partner who promotes products in exchange for a commission on sales.
When the wick tip continues glowing after the flame is extinguished; excessive afterglow can be a wick issue.
Minimum age requirements for purchasing or using certain products; rarely applicable to standard candles.
A substance that can trigger allergic reactions; some fragrance components are allergens requiring disclosure.
Elevation above sea level; can affect wax melting and boiling points, requiring minor adjustments.
Protective clothing worn during candle making to prevent wax and fragrance stains.
A term describing handcrafted, often small-batch products made with attention to quality and detail.
An organized production method where tasks are divided into stations for faster output.
Australian standards for candle safety, labeling, and consumer protection.
B
Substances prohibited in candles by certain jurisdictions (example: lead wicks in many countries).
(UPC)
A scannable code used for inventory management and retail sales (UPC, EAN, etc.).
The longest-lasting components of a fragrance; provide depth and staying power.
A group of candles made at the same time with the same formulation.
A unique identifier printed on products to trace production date and batch for recalls or quality control.
The total amount of wax or number of candles produced in a single production run.
Testing a representative candle from each production batch to confirm consistent performance.
Natural wax produced by bees; typically higher melt point and naturally scented.
Someone new to candle making; should start simple and test thoroughly before selling.
Recommended methods and standards for safe, consistent candle making.
When dye or fragrance migrates visibly within the wax or across layers, often in embeds or multi-layer pours.
Combining multiple fragrance oils to create custom scent profiles.
When the flame self-extinguishes unexpectedly during normal use, often due to drowning, clogging, or drafts.
Recording financial transactions for tax and business management purposes.
A style of wood wick designed to improve flame strength by layering or boosting airflow/fuel.
Natural plant material (flowers, herbs) sometimes added to candles; must be tested for flammability and safety.
Packaging that protects candles during shipping and provides premium presentation.
Creating a unique identity for your candle business through naming, design, and packaging.
The point where revenue equals costs; no profit or loss.
A physical retail location as opposed to online-only sales.
Protective material used to cushion candles during shipping.
A large quantity purchase, often at a discounted wholesale rate.
One complete burning session, often recommended to last until a full melt pool is achieved (commonly 1-4 hours for containers).
Guidelines provided to customers on safe candle use (trim wick, burn duration, never leave unattended, etc.).
How long a candle burns from first light to complete fuel consumption.
Safety instruction to place candles on stable, non-flammable surfaces away from edges.
Injuries from hot wax or equipment; proper handling and safety gear help prevent them.
Contact information and branding included with orders for customer reference.
Legal permission required to operate a candle business in many jurisdictions.
C
(CD)
A common braided cotton wick series used in container candles; always test for your system.
(CDN)
A related container wick series; sizing differs from CD and must be tested.
(CLP)
Classification, Labeling, and Packaging regulations (EU) for hazardous substances including fragrance oils.
(COA)
Certificate of Analysis; a document from suppliers confirming product specifications and testing results.
(COGS)
Cost of Goods Sold; the direct costs of materials and labor to make each candle.
(CPSC)
Consumer Product Safety Commission; US agency monitoring product safety including candles.
A tool (physical or digital) used to compute recipe quantities, costs, or conversions.
Canadian rules for candle safety, labeling, and hazard communication.
The practices customers should follow to maximize performance and safety (trimming, burn duration, storage).
The process by which melted wax moves up the wick fibers to feed the flame.
A claim that a product's carbon emissions are offset; requires verification and documentation.
A container material that can withstand heat; requires testing to ensure safe burning.
Official verification that products meet specific standards (organic, fair trade, etc.).
Special packaging designed to prevent young children from accessing dangerous products; not typically required for candles.
Solid pieces of colored wax added to a pour for a decorative effect.
Customer complaints or legal actions alleging harm from a product; proper testing and compliance help prevent them.
A common plastic package with multiple cavities used for wax melts.
A marketing term suggesting minimal soot or emissions; proper wicking and testing are key to achieving this.
The process of removing wax from tools, surfaces, and containers after production.
When fragrance, dye, or additives accumulate and restrict the wick's ability to draw wax, causing weak flames or extinguishing.
Wax derived from coconut oil (often blended); known for smooth appearance and good adhesion.
(CT)
How strongly a candle smells when it is not lit (from the wax in the container or bar).
Partnering with other businesses or makers for joint products, promotions, or events.
How vibrant or saturated a dyed candle appears; depends on dye type and load.
Achieving consistent color across batches by carefully measuring dye.
A percentage of sales paid to a seller, affiliate, or consignment location.
Online groups, forums, or local networks where candle makers share knowledge and support.
Meeting legal and safety requirements for candle production, labeling, and sales.
A trendy container material for candles; must be sealed and tested for heat tolerance.
Placing products in a retail location where payment is made only after items sell.
The heat-safe vessel that holds the wax and wick for a container candle.
A candle poured into a heat-safe vessel designed to contain the melt pool.
The inner width of the container, a key factor in choosing wick size.
Cleaning and preparing containers before pouring (inspecting, placing wick stickers).
Making candles for other businesses based on their specifications and formulas.
A reference candle with known performance used to compare against test candles.
Calculating equivalent measurements between units (ounces to grams, pounds to kilograms, etc.).
The process by which poured wax solidifies; rate and environment can affect finish, adhesion, and structure.
Legal protection for original creative works like product photos, designs, or written content.
A wick built around a core material (example: zinc-cored) for stability in some systems.
A wick without a core material (like paper or zinc).
A natural cork topper often used for aesthetic appeal on jar candles.
Candles sold to businesses for employee gifts, client appreciation, or events.
The audible crackle sometimes produced by wood wicks during burning.
Products or ingredients not tested on animals; often a marketing and ethical consideration.
The rest period after pouring that allows wax crystals and fragrance to stabilize, often improving performance and throw.
A designated area where candles rest and cure after pouring.
A specially designed or commissioned mold for unique candle shapes.
A personalized product made to customer specifications.
Support and communication provided to customers before, during, and after purchase.
Offering personalized options like custom labels, scents, or colors for customers.
Government agencies regulating imports/exports; candles may require special documentation or face restrictions.
D
A tool that bends the wick into the melted wax to extinguish the flame; reduces smoke.
Instructions to stop burning a candle when wax reaches a certain level (commonly 1/2 inch) to prevent overheating.
A product that is permanently removed from the product line.
A code customers enter at checkout to receive a price reduction.
Recording recipes, test results, and processes for repeatability and troubleshooting.
A method of melting wax indirectly using a pot over simmering water to avoid direct heat.
Air movement around the candle that can disrupt the flame, causing smoking, uneven burning, or excessive heat.
A tool for precise measurement and addition of liquid dye or small amounts of fragrance.
When the wick becomes submerged in melted wax and struggles to stay lit.
A fragrance oil designed to replicate a popular designer or commercial scent.
Taxes or fees charged on imported goods; affect international shipping costs.
A colorant added to wax to create colored candles; can be liquid, chip, or block form.
Solid dye in small chip form; easier to measure by weight for consistent color.
The amount of dye used, often expressed as a percentage or drops per pound of wax.
E
Online marketplaces or tools for selling products (Etsy, Shopify, WooCommerce, etc.).
(ECO)
A wick series often used in container candles; performance depends on wax, fragrance, dye, and jar diameter.
European Union rules governing candle safety, labeling, and chemical disclosure (CLP, REACH).
Maximizing output while minimizing waste, time, and cost in production.
Sending promotional messages and updates to customer email lists.
An object partially or fully encased in the candle wax for decoration; must be non-flammable and tested.
Adding raised designs or text to candles or containers for branding.
The tools and machinery used in candle making (scales, melters, thermometers, molds, etc.).
(EO)
A concentrated aromatic oil derived from plants; not all are candle-safe or stable at candle temperatures.
A popular online marketplace for handmade and artisan goods including candles.
Growing a business by adding products, locations, or production capacity.
A date indicating when a product should no longer be sold or used; not typically required for candles but relevant for shelf life.
The method of putting out a candle flame; snuffer is recommended over blowing to reduce smoke and wax splatter.
F
Loss of scent strength or color intensity over time due to storage or environmental factors.
Certification ensuring ethical sourcing and fair wages for ingredient producers.
The maximum recommended wax level in a container to allow for safe burning and prevent overflow.
Safety equipment that should be accessible in any candle making or burning area.
Precautions and practices to prevent candle-related fires and injuries.
Basic medical supplies and knowledge for treating minor burns or injuries during candle making.
The visible height of the flame during burning; unusually high flames can indicate over-wicking or drafts.
(FP)
The temperature at which fragrance vapors can ignite; important for safe handling and pouring above this temp.
A wick style often used in tapers and pillars; chosen based on wax type and candle diameter.
The specific recipe and ratios used to create a candle (wax blend, fragrance load, additives, wick).
A label applied to packages indicating careful handling is required.
When certain fragrance components cause wax to yellow, brown, or change color over time.
(FL)
The percentage of fragrance oil used relative to the wax weight (example: 8% FL means 8g FO per 100g wax).
(FO)
A formulated scented oil designed to be blended into wax for candles, melts, and other fragranced products.
A promotional offer where shipping costs are covered by the seller.
A technique for removing leftover wax from containers by freezing, making it easy to pop out.
A white, crystalline appearance on soy wax surfaces; natural and cosmetic but can be minimized with techniques.
When the melt pool reaches near the container's inner edge during a burn cycle (timing matters).
Operating a candle business as a primary source of income and focus.
A tool used to pour wax or fragrance into narrow containers without spilling.
G
A mineral oil and polymer blend that creates a clear gel candle; requires compatible fragrance and wicks.
A curated collection of candles or products packaged together for gifting.
The most common material for container candles; must be heat-resistant and tested for safety.
How well wax bonds to the container sides; poor adhesion can cause gaps or wet spots.
Decorative particles sometimes used in candles; must be non-flammable and tested for safety and clogging.
Protective hand covering used when handling hot wax, containers, or fragrances.
Eye protection worn when working with fragrances or hot wax.
(g)
A metric unit of weight commonly used for precise fragrance and dye measurements.
A tool used to shred wax for faster melting or creating wax chips for embeds.
Making misleading environmental claims; avoid vague terms without substantiation.
The total weight of the finished product including container, wax, and packaging.
H
(HTP)
A wick series with paper filament design; commonly tested in paraffin and blends depending on system.
Candles made by hand rather than automated production; often highlighted in artisan branding.
(HS Code)
A standardized numerical code used to classify products for customs and duties.
The empty space left at the top of a container above the wax fill line.
A tool used to smooth candle surfaces, fix wet spots, or assist in cleanup.
Someone who makes candles for personal enjoyment rather than as a primary business.
An area on the container that becomes unusually hot during burning; can indicate wicking issues or wick placement problems.
(HT)
How strongly a candle releases fragrance into a space while burning.
Moisture in the air that can affect candle appearance, cooling, and fragrance behavior.
I
(IFRA)
International Fragrance Association; sets fragrance safety standards; candle makers should check IFRA certificates.
Guidelines and regulations established for candle safety and quality (example: ASTM standards).
A social media personality who can promote products to their audience for a fee or free products.
(IR Thermometer)
A non-contact thermometer used to measure jar or surface temperature during testing.
A disclosure of what's in the candle; increasingly expected by conscious consumers.
Liability coverage protecting candle businesses from claims related to product safety or damages.
The types of protection included in a business liability policy (product liability, property damage, etc.).
A candle maker with experience who understands basics and is refining techniques and expanding products.
Sending products across borders; requires customs forms, duties, and compliance with destination country rules.
Tracking raw materials and finished goods for production and sales planning.
J
When a container breaks or cracks due to thermal stress, often from over-wicking, drafts, or improper glass.
The surface temperature of the candle container during burning; excessive heat can indicate over-wicking or safety issues.
K
Safety instruction to maintain clearance from curtains, paper, and other combustible materials.
L
(LLC)
Limited Liability Company; a business structure that protects personal assets from business liability.
(LX)
A wick series used in many container and pillar applications; requires testing for your specific system.
The printed product information and branding applied to candle containers or packaging.
A dedicated area or step in production for applying labels to finished candles.
A long-handled spoon sometimes used to transfer or skim wax.
Pouring wax in separate layers to create visual effects; requires timing and temperature control.
The time between receiving an order and shipping the product; important for made-to-order businesses.
The ongoing process of improving skills through testing, courses, and community engagement.
Legal responsibility for harm caused by a product; managed through insurance, testing, and compliance.
A cover for container candles that helps retain scent and protect from dust.
Products available only for a short time or in limited quantities to create urgency.
Dye in liquid form; mixes easily but can be harder to measure consistently for color matching.
High-end positioning emphasizing premium ingredients, packaging, and branding.
M
Producing candles only after receiving customer orders rather than keeping inventory.
A technique to create swirled color patterns in wax.
Strategies to promote and sell candles (social media, advertising, events, etc.).
In-person events (farmers markets, craft fairs) where candles are sold directly to consumers.
A vessel marked with volume measurements; less precise than weighing for candle making.
The temperature at which wax transitions from solid to liquid; varies by wax type.
The liquid wax layer that forms on top while burning; its diameter and depth indicate wick performance.
How deep the liquid wax layer is during a burn cycle; too deep can indicate over-wicking.
The process of heating solid wax to liquid form for pouring or testing.
A visible line or 'memory' left on the jar wall from a previous incomplete melt pool; often from short burn cycles.
A traditional mold type for pillars and votives; requires release agent and careful cooling.
A mineral powder used to add shimmer or color to candles; can clog wicks if overused.
A petroleum-based wax sometimes used as an additive or for overdipping to add flexibility and shine.
The heart of a fragrance that emerges after top notes fade; provides body and character.
A required purchase amount for wholesale or free shipping offers.
A long-handled spoon used to stir wax and additives.
A form used to shape pillar, votive, or specialty candles.
A crystalline patterned look in palm or certain blends; can be desirable or controlled depending on style.
Pouring multiple containers in one batch to increase efficiency.
Carbon buildup on the wick tip forming a 'mushroom' cap; can increase soot and instability.
N
A marketing term often used for candles made with natural waxes or essential oils; definitions vary.
The weight of the candle wax only, excluding container and packaging (often required on labels).
Building relationships with other makers, suppliers, and businesses in the industry.
A critical safety warning that candles must be supervised while burning.
A newly launched product or scent to generate excitement and sales.
Regular email updates sent to subscribers with news, promotions, and tips.
Written observations during testing or production to track performance and changes.
O
A wax or wax blend component derived from olive oil; often used in specialty blends.
Selling candles through websites, Etsy, social media, or other digital platforms.
A certification indicating ingredients meet organic standards; rarely applicable to all candle components.
(oz)
A common unit of measurement for wax and fragrance in candle making (weight or volume depending on context).
Safety instruction to keep candles away from curious hands and paws.
A technique for removing wax by heating containers in the oven and wiping out melted wax.
Using a wick that is too large/strong, causing excessive heat, large flames, deep melt pools, soot, or unsafe jar temperatures.
Coating a finished candle in a thin layer of wax for color, shine, or protection.
Fixed costs of running a business (rent, utilities, insurance) not directly tied to production.
Heating wax above recommended temperatures, which can degrade quality, scent, or cause safety issues.
P
The materials used to protect and present candles for sale or shipping.
Vegetable wax made from palm oil; often used for crystalline pillar styles and requires specific handling.
A cored wick type using paper filament; used in some container systems and requires testing.
Absorbent material used for cleanup and wiping tools.
Products formulated without parabens, a preservative some consumers prefer to avoid.
Petroleum-derived wax often valued for strong hot throw and predictable performance.
Legal protection for inventions or unique processes; rarely applicable to standard candle making.
A ratio expressed as parts per hundred; used for fragrance load, dye load, and wax blends.
Product images used for marketing, websites, and social media; quality impacts sales.
Fragrance oils formulated without phthalates, which are regulated or banned in some regions.
A free-standing candle designed to hold its shape without a container.
A heat-resistant pouring vessel used to transfer melted wax into containers.
A rigid plastic mold often used for pillar candles; requires release agent.
A temporary retail space for selling products at events or seasonal locations.
(lb)
A unit of weight often used for bulk wax purchases and batch calculations.
The wax temperature at which you pour into containers or molds; affects adhesion, surface finish, and scent retention.
The act of transferring melted wax into containers or molds.
Accepting payment for products before they are made, often for seasonal or custom items.
Preparing fragrance blends in advance to streamline production.
(Premier)
A wick series often used in containers; must be tested for wax type and fragrance load.
A brand/style of electric pot commonly adapted for wax melting; the term is often used generically.
Setting the cost of your candles based on materials, labor, overhead, and market positioning.
A wick pre-treated (often with wax) by the manufacturer to improve rigidity and burning characteristics.
A statement explaining how customer data is collected, used, and protected.
Producing candles for another brand to sell under their name.
A collection of related products offered by a business (example: seasonal collection, signature scents).
The process of making candles at scale, from melting to labeling.
A candle maker running a business focused on sales, compliance, consistency, and growth.
The money remaining after all costs are subtracted from revenue.
The percentage of revenue remaining after subtracting costs; essential for business sustainability.
Special offers or discounts to encourage sales and attract customers.
Q
(QC)
The process of checking candles for safety, performance, and appearance consistency before sale.
R
(REACH)
Registration, Evaluation, Authorization of Chemicals; EU regulation affecting fragrance and dye suppliers.
When natural waxes or oils degrade and develop an off smell; more common in some vegetable waxes.
Vegetable wax from rapeseed/canola; used for containers and blends, often marketed as sustainable depending on sourcing.
The proportional relationship between ingredients (example: 90% wax to 10% fragrance).
Products already made and available for immediate purchase and shipping.
Removing a product from the market due to safety concerns; proper testing helps prevent this.
A physical or digital document recording a candle formula for repeatability.
Melting down leftover or test candle wax to reuse; may affect scent and color.
A candle or wax insert designed to replace a used candle in a reusable container.
A spray or coating applied to molds to help candles release cleanly after cooling.
Lighting a candle again after it has cooled; relight behavior can reveal wicking or clogging issues.
The ability to consistently produce candles with the same performance across batches.
Encouraging customers to reuse candle containers for storage or decor after burning.
The period after stirring before pouring, allowing bubbles to settle and temperature to stabilize.
Replenishing sold-out products; often announced to encourage repeat purchases.
Fragrance components that are limited or banned in certain regions due to safety concerns.
Selling candles directly to consumers at full price.
Rules governing customer returns and refunds; important for online sales.
A vessel designed to be used again after the candle is finished; supports sustainability messaging.
The total income from sales before subtracting costs.
Customer feedback on products and service; essential for building trust and improving offerings.
S
(SDS)
Safety Data Sheet; provides hazard and handling information for chemicals like fragrance oils.
(SKU)
Stock Keeping Unit; a unique identifier for each product variant in inventory and sales systems.
Protective equipment like gloves, aprons, and goggles used during candle making.
A small candle or melt offered to let customers try a scent before purchasing full-size products.
A collection of small candles or melts in various scents for customers to try.
A digital or mechanical tool used to measure ingredient weights accurately.
Adjusting recipe quantities up or down while maintaining the same proportions.
Growing a candle business by increasing production capacity, sales channels, or product lines.
Broad categories of fragrances (floral, woody, citrus, etc.) used to classify and blend scents.
The overall character and composition of a fragrance including its notes and families.
A soft wax melt style intended to be scooped into a warmer; requires stable formulation.
A tool used to remove dried wax from surfaces or containers.
An adhesive closure for packaging that also serves as a tamper-evident safety feature.
Applying a coating or treatment to porous containers (like concrete) to prevent wax seepage.
Candles marketed for specific seasons or holidays (example: pumpkin spice for fall, pine for winter).
A top-off pour used to fix sinkholes or smooth the surface after the initial pour has cooled.
Fragrance oil leaking out of the wax, often through the container bottom or wick hole, from overload or improper cooling.
A wick designed to curl and burn off excess length during use, potentially reducing mushrooming (still benefits from trimming).
A substance that can cause skin sensitivity over time; some fragrances contain sensitizers.
How long a candle maintains optimal quality before scent, color, or performance degrades.
The process of packaging and sending candles to customers or retailers.
A sturdy cardboard box used to send candles to customers or retailers.
An e-commerce platform for building custom online stores.
A plastic film that shrinks around candles when heated, providing protection and tamper evidence.
Running a candle business part-time alongside other work or commitments.
A unique or best-selling fragrance that defines a brand or product line.
A heat-resistant mat used to protect work surfaces from hot wax and spills.
A flexible mold material that releases candles easily; popular for wax melts and shaped candles.
A fragrance designed to smell like one specific scent (example: pure lavender or vanilla).
Depressions or voids in the cooled candle surface, often near the wick, caused by contraction during cooling.
Removing surface debris or bubbles from melted wax before pouring.
Fragrances formulated and tested for use on skin (example: in bath products); not all fragrance oils are skin safe.
Producing candles in limited quantities; often associated with quality and artisan craftsmanship.
Visible emissions from a candle, often caused by soot, drafts, over-wicking, or an untrimmed wick.
A molded wax melt bar designed to break into segments for warmers.
A tool designed to safely extinguish candle flames by smothering them.
Online platforms (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok) used to showcase products and engage customers.
When a product is no longer available due to high demand; can drive future interest.
A business owned by one person without formal incorporation; simpler but less liability protection.
Black residue produced by incomplete combustion; linked to wick choice, fragrance load, dye, drafts, or lack of trimming.
Vegetable-based wax made from soybean oil; often used for container candles and melts.
A tool for stirring, scraping, or smoothing wax during production.
Accidents where wax or fragrance is spilled; have cleanup materials ready.
A digital tool (like Excel or Google Sheets) used for recipe management, inventory, and cost tracking.
A wick style often used in beeswax pillars; provides stronger fuel delivery than flat braid in some cases.
A general term sometimes used for certain wick constructions (commonly associated with CD/CDN families).
A beginner package containing basic supplies to learn candle making (wax, wicks, fragrance, containers).
An additive used to harden wax, increase opacity, and improve mold release in some systems.
Adhesive branding or decorative element added to packaging or candles.
Mixing wax and additives (fragrance, dye) to ensure even distribution.
How long fragrance and additives should be mixed into wax to ensure even distribution.
How and where candles should be kept when not in use; affects scent retention and appearance.
A jar or vessel with vertical walls; simpler for wick testing than tapered containers.
Filtering melted wax through a mesh to remove debris or contaminants.
A recurring shipment of candles sent to customers on a schedule (monthly, quarterly, etc.).
Vegetable wax derived from sunflower oil; commonly used as a blend component for containers.
A vendor providing raw materials (wax, fragrance, containers, wicks) for candle making.
Sourcing and practices designed to minimize environmental impact; increasingly important to consumers.
Liquid fragrance oil beading on the candle surface due to temperature changes or excess fragrance load.
A tool sometimes used for precise measurement of fragrance or additives.
T
Packaging features that show if a product has been opened or altered.
A tall, narrow candle designed to fit taper holders; usually uses harder wax and specific wick types.
A container with sloped walls; melt pool behavior may change as the candle burns down.
Government charges on income, sales, or business operations; varies by location.
A small candle in a thin metal or polycarbonate cup; requires appropriate wicking for safety.
Ambient conditions affecting wax behavior; extreme heat or cold can cause sweating, cracking, or frosting.
Legal agreements outlining business policies, liability, and customer responsibilities.
Controlled conditions for wick testing to ensure consistent and comparable results.
A note included with orders to show appreciation and encourage repeat business.
A device for measuring wax temperature during melting, mixing, and pouring.
A tool used to track burn cycles, cooling times, or production steps.
A metal container often used for travel candles or wax melts.
Decorative paper used to wrap or cushion candles in packaging.
The first scents perceived when smelling a fragrance; typically lighter and more volatile.
An industry event where makers showcase products to retailers and other businesses.
Legal protection for a business name, logo, or product name.
Being open about ingredients, processes, and sourcing to build customer trust.
A small, portable candle often in a tin; designed for easy transport and short burns.
Identifying and solving problems in candle performance or appearance.
When a candle burns down the center leaving wax on the sides, usually from under-wicking or short burn cycles.
(TAT)
How quickly orders are processed and shipped; affects customer satisfaction.
U
United Kingdom rules for candle safety and labeling, similar to but separate from EU regulations post-Brexit.
United States rules for candle safety (ASTM standards, CPSC guidelines, state-specific labeling).
An additive that helps protect candles from fading or discoloration due to sunlight.
Using a wick that is too small/weak, causing tunneling, weak hot throw, or drowning/extinguishing.
V
A fragrance component that commonly causes wax discoloration (yellowing/browning); listed as a percentage in fragrance specs.
Expenses that change with production volume (wax, fragrance, containers).
The factors that can change in candle making (wax type, fragrance load, wick, dye) and affect outcomes.
Products made without animal-derived ingredients; common in plant-based wax and fragrance systems.
Air circulation in the workspace to remove fragrance vapors and heat; essential for safety.
How thick or fluid a substance is; affects pouring, wick draw, and cooling behavior in wax.
A small candle typically burned in a holder; can be made as container or freestanding depending on wax.
A polymer additive that improves fragrance retention and opacity; usage varies by wax type.
W
A label with safety instructions and burn warnings required for candle sales in many regions.
Leftover materials or defective products; minimizing waste improves profitability and sustainability.
The fuel of a candle that melts, feeds the wick, and solidifies when cooled.
A mix of two or more wax types (or waxes plus additives) to improve performance, appearance, or scent throw.
A wickless fragranced wax product warmed in a wax warmer to release scent.
An electric appliance designed to melt wax safely and maintain temperature.
The total amount of wax in a finished candle, used to calculate fragrance load and pricing.
An online presence for showcasing and selling candles; can be standalone or through platforms like Etsy.
Small candles given to guests at weddings or events; often customized.
Using a scale to measure wax, fragrance, dye, or additives precisely.
Visible air gaps or bubbles between the wax and container wall, often caused by cooling rate or wax choice.
Wax beaten to a fluffy texture while cooling, creating a frosted appearance.
Selling candles in bulk at a discounted rate to retailers or other businesses.
The fuel delivery system that draws melted wax upward via capillary action to sustain a stable flame.
A tool that spans the top of a container to hold and center the wick while pouring and cooling.
Keeping the wick positioned in the center of the container for even melting and reduced hot spots.
The way some wicks bend while burning, which can promote self-trimming behavior in certain designs.
A pin used in molds to create a centered wick channel in pillar candles.
The process of preparing wicks before pouring (tabbing, priming, or measuring).
A wick 'family' with consistent construction rules and sizing (example: CD, ECO, HTP, LX).
The wick's strength rating within a series, chosen to match wax, fragrance, dye, and container diameter.
A heat-resistant adhesive used to secure a wick tab to the container bottom.
The metal base attached to many wicks that anchors the wick at the container bottom.
A structured process of burning test candles to select the best wick for safety and performance.
A specialized scissor-style tool for trimming wicks to the recommended length.
Cutting the wick to a safe length (commonly about 1/4 inch) before lighting to reduce soot and stabilize the flame.
A decorative wooden cover for container candles, often engraved or branded.
A wick made of wood (single or booster styles) that can produce a crackling effect; requires specialized sizing/testing.
The sequence and organization of tasks in candle production for efficiency.
The physical area dedicated to candle making; should be well-ventilated and organized.
Z
A cored wick type using zinc; commonly seen in some container paraffin systems and requires testing.
Understanding Candle Making Terminology
This comprehensive candle dictionary covers essential terminology used by candle makers at all levels. Whether you're just starting out or running a candle business, understanding these terms will help you communicate effectively, troubleshoot issues, and improve your candle making skills.
The dictionary includes common abbreviations like HT (Hot Throw), CT (Cold Throw), FO (Fragrance Oil), and technical terms related to wax types, wick selection, fragrance blending, testing procedures, and business operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hot throw (HT) refers to how strongly a candle releases fragrance into a space while burning. It's one of the most important performance metrics for evaluating candles.
Cold throw (CT) is how strongly a candle smells when it is not lit - from the wax in the container. It's what customers smell before purchasing.
Cure time is the rest period after pouring that allows wax crystals and fragrance to stabilize. This process often improves both hot throw and cold throw performance.
A melt pool is the liquid wax layer that forms on top while burning. Its diameter and depth indicate whether your wick is properly sized for the candle.