The wick is the single most important part of the candle. Most wicks are made of braided threads of cotton that have been chemically altered to be fire-retardant. This gives the wick a longer burn time. There are many different types of wicks used in candle making. The most popular are: Cored Wicks. Flat Braid Wicks, and Square Braid Wicks.
Cored wicks have zinc, lead, paper or cotton in the center to provide rigidity and kept them erect. (Note: The use of lead cored wicks is decreasing due to health concerns.)
Flat Braid wicks are made of a three-strand braid made of many plies per strand. This type of wick is most often used for tapers and pillars.
Square Braid wicks have many strands that looks like a square with rounded corners. It is often used in beeswax candles, pillars, and novelty candles. Many think a square braid will stand up straighter and is better at keeping a flame centered in its candle.
All these types of wicks come in a wide variety of different sizes. Many basic candle making instructions say “use a wick that is the appropriate size for the candle you are making,” a very frustrating statement for the budding candle maker. When in doubt, contact your manufacturer. Initially, they will be the best guide for determining wick size.
You may also consult this Wick Chart. Please note that I have never purchased supplies from this vendor and cannot vouch for them in that way. They do provide the most extensive wick chart I have ever seen
Although in general it can be said that wick size is determined by the meltpoint of the wax and the diameter of the candle, the following factors determine proper wick size:
- Wax type: paraffin, beeswax, soy, or a combination, along with its accompanying meltpoint
- Physical size and shape of the candle
- Type of candle: pillar, container, votive, etc.
- Additives: fragrance oil, colorant, stearic acid, etc.
Molded and novelty candles need to have their wicks primed. Submerge the wick into hot wax for 60 seconds. After 60 seconds, let the excess wax drip back into your melting pan. Let the wick cool for about a minute, then slowly run your fingers down the wick to release any air and straighten any kinks.
All wicks need to be tabbed. A tab is a small metal cleat that helps the wick stand up straight. A bit of wax glue or mold sealer will keep the tab in place before you pour.
