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Making candles is a fun hobby, but choosing the right wick for soy wax can be tricky. Get the wrong wick, and you’ll end up with a candle that either drowns in its own wax or burns down the center, leaving tons of wax clinging to the sides. To help you avoid those frustrations, I’ve tested a bunch of wicks and rounded up the best ones for soy wax. These picks will help you get a clean, even burn every time.
Product Overview
- Hemp Wick: All-natural option, provides a clean and slow burn.
- Cotton Wick: Versatile, suitable for various container sizes and wax types.
- Wood Wick: Creates a crackling sound, adds a cozy ambiance.
- Square Braid Wick: Rigid and provides consistent flame.
- Pre-Waxed Wick: Convenient and easy to use, great for beginners.
Top 5 Best Candle Wicks for Soy Wax
#1. Hemplights Hemp Wick
Hemplights Hemp Wick is an all-natural option, perfect if you’re trying to avoid synthetic materials. It’s made from 100% organic hemp and beeswax, offering a clean and slow burn.
Pros:
- ✅ All-natural and organic materials
- ✅ Provides a clean, slow burn
- ✅ Free from chemicals and toxins
Cons:
- ❌ May require more frequent trimming
- ❌ Can be slightly more expensive than other wick types
- ❌ The scent of hemp might not appeal to everyone
Verdict: Great for eco-conscious candle makers who want a natural and slow-burning wick.
#2. Candle Science CD Series Wick
The Candle Science CD Series Wick is a popular cotton wick known for its versatility and reliability. These wicks work well with soy wax and various container sizes.
Pros:
- ✅ Versatile and works with many container sizes
- ✅ Provides a consistent and even burn
- ✅ Readily available and affordable
Cons:
- ❌ May require some trial and error to find the right size for your candle
- ❌ Can produce some soot if not trimmed properly
- ❌ Not as eco-friendly as natural options like hemp
Verdict: A solid all-around choice for both beginners and experienced candle makers looking for reliable performance.
#3. Lumetique Wood Wick
Lumetique Wood Wicks add a unique touch to your candles with their gentle crackling sound. They create a cozy ambiance reminiscent of a fireplace.
Pros:
- ✅ Creates a pleasant crackling sound
- ✅ Offers a unique aesthetic appeal
- ✅ Burns cleanly with minimal soot
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more difficult to light than cotton wicks
- ❌ Requires specific wax blends and additives for optimal performance
- ❌ May need to be re-lit during the initial burn
Verdict: Perfect for those wanting to create a unique, cozy candle experience with a natural crackling sound.
#4. Stabilo Square Braid Wick
Stabilo Square Braid Wicks are known for their rigid structure, which helps them stay upright in the wax. This ensures a consistent flame and even burn.
Pros:
- ✅ Rigid structure prevents the wick from slumping
- ✅ Provides a consistent and even flame
- ✅ Works well in heavily scented candles
Cons:
- ❌ Can produce more soot than other wick types if not properly sized
- ❌ May require more precise trimming
- ❌ Not as widely available as other common wicks
Verdict: A good option for candle makers who need a sturdy wick that can handle strong fragrances and dyes.
#5. Pre-Waxed Candle Wicks with Stickers
Pre-Waxed Candle Wicks with Stickers are super convenient, especially for beginners. They come ready to use with a wax coating and a sticker to hold them in place.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to use, saves time and effort
- ✅ Consistent wax coating ensures a good initial burn
- ✅ Stickers help keep the wick centered in the container
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than buying wicks in bulk
- ❌ Limited options in terms of wick size and material
- ❌ Wax coating might not be compatible with all wax types and fragrances
Verdict: Ideal for beginners or anyone who wants a quick and easy candle-making experience without the hassle of waxing wicks themselves.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right candle wick for soy wax involves a few key considerations. Here’s what you need to know to make the best choice:
- Container Diameter: The diameter of your candle container is the most important factor. A wick that’s too small won’t melt the wax evenly, leaving wax on the sides (tunneling). A wick that’s too large will create a large flame, produce soot, and burn too quickly. Wick manufacturers usually provide a chart that matches wick sizes to container diameters.
- Wax Type: While all these wicks are suited for soy wax, different soy wax blends can affect the burn. Some soy waxes are softer and require a slightly larger wick.
- Fragrance and Dye: Fragrance oils and dyes can clog the wick and affect the burn. Heavily scented candles often need a larger wick to compensate.
- Wick Material: Consider the material of the wick. Cotton wicks are versatile, hemp wicks are natural, and wood wicks offer a unique crackling sound.
- Testing: Always test your candles with different wick sizes to find the perfect burn. Make a small batch and burn the candles for several hours to observe the flame, melt pool, and soot production.
FAQs
Q: How do I know what size wick to use for my soy candle?
A: Start by checking the wick manufacturer’s chart, which matches wick sizes to container diameters. Then, test different wick sizes to see which one provides the best burn with your specific wax, fragrance, and dye combination.
Q: Why is my soy candle tunneling?
A: Tunneling happens when the wick is too small for the container diameter. The flame doesn’t melt the wax evenly, leaving a ring of un-melted wax around the edges. Try using a larger wick.
Q: How often should I trim my candle wick?
A: Trim your candle wick to about 1/4 inch before each burn. This helps prevent soot and ensures a clean, even burn.
Q: Can I use any type of wick for soy wax candles?
A: While some wicks are more versatile, it’s best to choose wicks specifically designed for soy wax. These wicks are designed to handle the unique properties of soy wax, such as its lower melting point.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wick for your soy wax candles can make all the difference between a beautifully burning candle and a frustrating mess. Whether you prefer the natural simplicity of hemp, the reliability of cotton, or the cozy crackle of wood, there’s a wick out there for you. Remember to consider your container size, wax type, and fragrance load, and don’t be afraid to experiment. With a little trial and error, you’ll be creating perfect candles in no time.
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