Below are some very common candle making problems and their solutions.

Problem Possible Causes Solutions Candle Burning Problems Candle Smokes (all candles) Wick is too thick (it burns wax faster than it can melt it so Use a thinner wick (see wick sizing chart) the wick starts to burn) Candle Drips (all candles) Wick is too thin (it cannot burn the wax it is melting so it Use a thicker wick (see wick sizing chart) overflows) Splattering (poured/molded candles) Air cavities have formed in the wax and expand due to Pierce around the wick to expose cavities heat and fill with melted wax (may be necessary to do more than once) Mold Problems Candle Stuck in Mold Mold Releasant was not used enough or at all; Mold was Add 1 teaspoon mold releasant per pound (poured/molded candles) not filled to top of wax- if it still sticks, place in freezer to shrink wax (only when it's completely set); fill mold all the way to the top (any wax that may splash on the sides will stop the candle from coming out) Candle is Dipped or Caved at bottom All wax shrinks when it cools It is necessary to "top up" the candle as it (poured/molded candles) cools until the surface is level (may need to be done several times) Candle Surface Problems (Poured/Molded Candles) Fractures & Cracks Candle has been cooled too quickly, too soon, or for too Reduce amount or speed of cooling by long insulating candle and mold Pit Marks Water has gotten into the wax; Wax has been poured into Keep any water out of wax; Pour wax slowly the mold too quickly; Mold is dirty into mold; Clean molds before use Spots Under Surface Wax has been remelted too many times and has broken Use fresh wax or decorate to cover down imperfections White Mottling Too much oil in wax (sometimes added to acheive this Reduce amount of oil added to wax or use a affect - use 3% mineral oil) wax with less oil content (oil based scents will cause this too if too much is added) Rippling Effect Too much Polybar / Vybar Add appropriate amount of Polybar (2%) White Rings Wax poured too cool Pour wax at a higher temperature (always use a thermometer to regulate temp.) Caved Sides Candle was not pierced early enough (air pockets cause Poke a hole in well of candle (around wick) sides to contract inwards) before wax hardens White Dust on Surface of Beeswax Beeswax contains a natural oil that rises to the surface Gently warm wax with a hairdryer or wipe Sheets (rolled candles) over time, forming a white "bloom" with a soft cloth (flat sheets only); apply a candle glaze to keep from re-surfacing