15 Candle Terms You Should Know
Starting your journey into the world of candle melts can be quite exciting and filled with senses. From fragrances to finding just the right combination of wax and warmers, there is so much to enjoy. But with any new adventure, it can be a bit overwhelming at first—especially when you hear a lot of terms that sound like a foreign language. What’s the difference between cold throw and hot throw? What exactly is curing?
Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Every expert was once a beginner, and learning the language of candles is all part of the fun. Understanding these terms makes it easier to navigate the candle world and adds a deeper appreciation for its craft and creativity.
In this article, I am going to break down 15 basic candle terms. A lot of these terms apply to melts, but they can also apply to container candles. By the end, you will feel more confident in your candle knowledge and ready to dive deeper into this creative craft.
1. Burn cycle
The amount of time a candle is burned per session. I test my tealight candles using this method, making sure the correct wicks are being used.
2. Burn test
It involves lighting a candle to observe performance such as flame size and scent throw. A valuable step in ensuring the candles meet the desired standards before reaching the customer.
3. Cold throw
The scent of the candle when it is not burning, such as when it is in its solid form. The fragrance should be appealing even before the candle is lit, providing a preview of the delightful scent what awaits when the candle is lit.
4. Curing
A crucial step in the candle-making process that involves allowing the finished candles to sit or mature before being used. This period can range from a few days to several weeks. This allows the wax and fragrance to fully merge, enhancing the overall quality and performance of the candle melt.
5. Essential oil
Natural, plant-derived extracts (bark, root, flowers, seeds) that are more subtle in scent compared to fragrance oils, providing a different fragrant experience.
6. Fragrance oil or F/O
Scent oils specifically formulated for candle-making made from natural and synthetic ingredients. They are formulated with solvents that offer a high level of scent throw in candle wax.
7. Fragrance load
The amount of fragrance oil added to the wax. It plays a crucial role in determining the intensity of scent when the candle is burned.
8. Flashpoint
The temperature at which your fragrance or essentials oils can ignite when near an open flame. A concern if you decide to ship in low-pressure, high-heat situations.
9. Frosting
A natural occurrence (crystal formation) that happens to soy candles. It appears as a white, crystalline layer on the surface, resembling frost. Some view this as a cosmetic flaw, while most view frosting as a characteristic of soy wax. It does not affect the scent or burn of the candle melt.
10. Hot throw
The strength of the fragrance when the candle is lit. Candle makers aim for a well-balanced hot throw that captivates without being overwhelming. Achieving a good hot throw involves factors such as the quality of the fragrance or essential oil and the appropriate fragrance load.
11. Melt point
The temperature at which the wax transitions from a solid to a liquid. Candle makers select wax based on their melt point to ensure their candles burn evenly and release fragrance.
12. Melt/Tart
Refers to a small, shaped piece of scented wax. Both terms are used interchangeably in the candle-making industry. The choice between “candle melt” and “candle tart” might be influenced by regional preferences or specific product branding.
13. Polybag – Polypropylene bag
A type of plastic bag commonly used for packaging and protecting individual candles or sets of candles. It provides a transparent and durable covering that helps prevent dust, dirt and moisture from affecting the candles. It also prevents fragrance loss.
14. Pour temp.
The recommended temperature at which the melted wax can be poured in the mold during the candle-making process. The ideal pour temperature varies depending on the type of wax used.
15. Warmer
An electric or tea light-powered device designed to melt wax melts or tarts. The warmer gently heats the wax, releasing its fragrance into the air without the need for an open flame.
