Making Candle Wicks - Tips From Top Candle Makers

Wicks are the most important part of any candle that you make. Without a wick, all you'd have is a big block of wax. While most people do purchase their wicks from wholesalers, it is important to know how to make your own wicks for a number of reasons. Probably the most important reason is because if you are familiar with making candle wicks, then you will also know how to deal with a problem with a wick that you've purchased, such as improper priming. So let's get started.

There are three different types of candle wicks, and each type is used for a different application.

Cored Wicks- These wicks are a basic braid with a wire in the middle. The wire helps the wick burn hotter which is helpful for larger candles. However, recent studies have indicated that these types of candle wicks can be harmful, especially for children, because they can also release toxic metal into the air. If you are making candle wicks like this, be very careful about the wire you select.

Flat Braid Wicks- These wicks are just a basic braid. This type of wick is used for taper candles. Making candle wicks like these is a great place to start if you are a beginner because they are easy to make.

Square Braid Wicks- These wicks are a used for making any candle that is a large block of wax, such as pillar candles. Making candle wicks of this type is more difficult because the braid is more complicated.

There are two steps involved in making wicks. The first is braiding. Braiding candle wicks can be a little time consuming depending on how much you are braiding at a time. Since they are so narrow, making candle wicks in very long lengths can become tedious.

When making candle wicks, you should cut the string you are working with about six inches longer than what you want your finished candle to be. Simply soak cotton string of your desired length in a solution of 1 tablespoon of salt, 2 tablespoons of boric acid and a cup of water. Soak them in the solution for at least 12 hours (longer won't hurt them) and then hang them to dry. Once dry simply braid the strands of the string into the type of wick you want.

The second step in making candle wicks is priming. This step is crucial to your wick burning properly. All you do is saturate the wicks in wax. You just need to melt some wax and drop the wicks in. You'll know they are saturated when you see bubbles being released. At this point remove them from the wax, being careful not to burn yourself. You'll need to stretch them out tightly and dip them in water to harden the wax. Then you can lay them on a sheet of wax paper and let them dry. For a stiffer wick, allow the wick to dry for at least a minute and then repeat the process. Be sure to store your wicks properly.

Now that you know how to make your own wicks, give it a try. You may find that you like making your wicks more than buying them.