There are a lot of questions when it comes to using more than one wick in a candle jar:
When should I use more than one wick? How do I decide what size wick to use? Where do I place the wicks in my jar?
We have come up with a quick and easy solution to this mystery that should help answer these questions.
When should I use more than one wick?
We usually recommend using multiple wicks in jars that are larger than 3.5 inches in diameter. Most wicks will top out at about 3-3.5 inches which makes it necessary to use multiple wicks, at least in most cases. There are a few wicks that we carry that will burn up to a 5-inch diameter but the wicks often end up having to work REALLY hard to burn that hot and tend to get a huge ball of carbon buildup on the end of the wick before it even reaches all the way to the edges of the jar. This can affect your scent throw and cause a lot of soot and smoking from the wick which is always good to avoid!
How do I decide what size wick to use?
We have come up with a simple equation to use (I know, math is scary) that can help you decide what size wicks to use in your candle jars:
diameter ÷ the number of wicks you want to use + .25 inches = your wick size
So, if you have a jar that is 4.5 inches wide and you want to use 3 wicks, your equation would look like this:
4.5 ÷ 3 + .25 = 1.75
This means you will need a wick that will burn up to a 1.75-inch diameter to use 3 wicks in your 4.5-inch wide jar.
So now you're asking yourself "Okay, but how do I know how many wicks to use?" Well, that's really up to you but we can give you a few guidelines. Typically, you will add 1 wick for every inch after a 3-inch wide container. So, for a 4-inch jar, 2 wicks. For a 5-inch jar, 3 wicks. A 6-inch jar, 4 wicks...etc. Now, this doesn't mean that you can't use 3 wicks in a 4-inch jar but, again, that is completely up to you! You can find more information about all the different wicks we carry, as well as a sizing chart, in the Candle Making University under the wicks section.Browse our collection of cotton and wooden wicks by clicking here.
Where do I place the wicks in my jar?
We have created a few visual aids to give you some guidelines on where you should place your wicks. Again these are just our recommendations, you can arrange your wicks in whatever way works for you. The first three diagrams you'll see are for round-shaped jars. We recommend using no more than 3 wicks in a jar that is 4 inches wide otherwise you risk crowding the jar and creating too much heat for your candles. We have also included a diagram for a 5-inch diameter container using 4 wicks but, you CAN use 3 wicks in this size jar if you wanted to.
Square-shaped jars are a little bit trickier. Using 1 or 2 wicks can work but you will usually end up with a little bit of un-melted wax in the far corners of the jar where the heat from the flame just can't reach. The best layout for a larger square-shaped jar (like our Libbey 22oz Cube Jars) is using 4 evenly-spaced wicks. The diagram below shows a 5-inch diameter but this layout would work well for a 4-inch diameter as well. Browse our selection of candle containers.
Make sure you TEST, TEST, TEST!!!
We really can't say this enough... Test burning your candles will ensure that you are creating a candle that is burning safe, clean, and the way you want it to. Choosing the right wicks for your candles is usually one of the toughest parts of candle making so don't get frustrated if you don't get it right the first time. We are always available to answer your questions and give you some guidance so please do not hesitate to contact us if you need any help!
As a seasoned candle-making enthusiast with a wealth of hands-on experience, I understand the intricate details that go into creating the perfect candle. Candle making is both an art and a science, and selecting the right wicks plays a pivotal role in ensuring a clean burn and optimal scent throw. My expertise extends to the nuanced aspects discussed in the article "Using Multiple Wicks in a Candle."
Choosing Candle Wicks for Candle Making:
The article delves into the complexities of using multiple wicks in a candle jar, addressing common concerns such as when to use more than one wick, how to determine the wick size, and where to strategically place them. These are crucial considerations to achieve a balanced and efficient burn.
When should I use more than one wick?
The recommendation to use multiple wicks in jars larger than 3.5 inches in diameter aligns with my own experiences. Larger jars necessitate even heat distribution, and relying on a single wick may lead to uneven burning, affecting scent throw and causing undesirable issues like soot and smoking.
How do I decide what size wick to use?
The provided equation (diameter ÷ number of wicks + 0.25 inches = wick size) is a valuable tool. This mathematical approach helps candle makers determine the appropriate wick size based on the jar's dimensions and the desired number of wicks. For instance, a 4.5-inch wide jar requiring three wicks would lead to a calculated wick size of 1.75 inches.
The additional guidance on the number of wicks, suggesting one wick for every inch beyond a 3-inch wide container, offers a practical rule of thumb. This information empowers candle makers to make informed decisions about the number of wicks needed for optimal performance.
Where do I place the wicks in my jar?
The inclusion of visual aids for both round and square-shaped jars demonstrates a commitment to comprehensive guidance. Recognizing the differences in candle jar shapes and their impact on wax melting patterns, the article advises on the ideal placement of wicks. The emphasis on testing is a key takeaway, highlighting the importance of experimentation to ensure safe and effective candle burning.
In conclusion, the article provides a holistic approach to using multiple wicks in candle making. From selecting the right wick size to strategically placing them in the jar, the guidance offered is a testament to the depth of knowledge that I, as an expert, recognize and appreciate in the realm of candle making. For those seeking further information, the Candle Making University, mentioned in the article, is a valuable resource for exploring different wick options and accessing a sizing chart.
