FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you use soy wax to make your candles?
Soy wax is derived from soybeans, an entirely natural, renewable, and eco-friendly resource. Soy wax candles are known for their slow burn time, often up to 50% longer than paraffin candles. Soy wax also has a lower melting point, making it less likely to burn too hot resulting in an unpleasant scent and blackening of the vessel. Soy wax candles produce little-to-no soot, resulting in a cleaner burning candle that doesn't deposit black soot onto the vessel or into the air. Soot buildup can lead to respiratory issues and leave stains on nearby surfaces.
Where do you get your wax from?
I purchase my soy wax from Hive and Honey Candle Company. Located in Metro Detroit, Michigan, Hive and Honey Candle Company is a woman-owned small business. I use Titan Wax Natural 5230 which is a high-performance soy wax, designed to deliver superior fragrance retention and a creamy white texture. Its purity and sustainability make it perfect for container candle making and a favorite of experienced candlemakers. This all-natural wax is made from premium midwestern soy wax and meets rigorous U.S. Soybean Export Council standards. Made in the USA.
What is wrong with paraffin wax candles?
Paraffin wax is a petroleum-derived wax widely used in candle-making for over a century. Paraffin wax candles produce soot and toxins when burned. The Environmental Protection Agency warns that burning paraffin products can be harmful to those who inhale the fumes. People exposed to the chemicals released by burning paraffin wax have reported headaches, shortness of breath, and coughing. This is why I choose 100% soy wax for my candles. There are many soy blend candles on the market, meaning they use soy wax with another type of wax, often paraffin.
Why is there extra wax on the side of my vessel?
Most candles that burn leaving residual wax, or extra wax on the side of the vessel, will likely resolve itself as you continue to burn the piece. Small Great Things uses unique, repurposed vessels. Since I am unable to test each vessel before making your candle, I can’t be certain that the amount of wicks is perfect for the vessel. With that being said, I have tested and researched hundreds of candles and use my best judgment to determine the appropriate number of wicks for the vessel. The residual wax can be used on your skin as a moisturizer. After exhausting the flame, allow the wax to cool some. Then dip your fingers in the wax at the edge of the vessel and rub it on your skin.
Why are there wet spots on the side of my candle?
The wet spots that you see are not wet spots. The spots are caused by shrinkage and air bubbles, which occur as the wax is cooling inside the container. These “wet spots” are merely cosmetic flaws that in no way affect the burnability of the candle. In the world of natural candles, they can even be seen as a testament to the use of 100% natural ingredients, free from additives that prevent such occurrences. I use 100% soy wax for all of my candles.
Why is my wick coming off the bottom of the candle?
Your wick may become loose from the wick’s sticker, causing it to float to the top of the wax. The reason may be that you are burning it for longer than 4 hours. This will cause excessive heat and may affect your candle’s performance. Don’t panic, as you can still enjoy your candle, especially if you are getting to the bottom of the vessel. Try removing the floating wick with a fork and allow the wax to completely cool before lighting it again.
How long can I burn my candle?
Do not burn your candle for longer than 4 hours at a time. Burning it longer than four hours will cause excessive heat and may affect your candle’s performance. It also puts your vessel in danger of breaking while still lit.
When should I stop burning my candle?
You must stop burning your candle when 1/2 inch of wax remains, if not sooner.
When your candle has 2 inches of candle wax remaining, it is time to analyze the last few burns. Each vessel's base is unique in size and shape. When you get to the bottom of the vessel, you should consider only lighting a few of the wicks, and decide when to stop burning the candle. There are metal plates on the bottom of the wicks designed to protect your vessel from coming into contact with the flame. However, excessive heat at the bottom of the vessel can cause damage or breakage.