A candle cannot light and stay lit unless the wax is melted and moving at the base of the wick. There are times when the match must be pressed against the wax at the wick base to establish a flame.

Pinching out the flame or dipping the wick is the preferred method, eliminating splatters and smoke.  Melted wax is lighter than water so if you choose to blow out the flame hold something behind the flame to catch wax!

Because pure beeswax candles require such large wick they are likely to smoke some when extinguished unless the glowing tip of the wick is also extinguished. Pinching, clipping, wetting, or covering all relieve the smoking.  Look for a wick trimmer or dipper.

Trimming, clipping, or breaking off the cold wick to ¼” is often required before relighting.

Commonly referred to as “tunneling,” this happens when the candle is burned in short periods of time. Ideally the candle needs to burn long enough that the melted wax extends practically to the full diameter.

Occasionally a pure beeswax candle that is still replete with the essence of honey and the hive will have some particulate in it that will clog the wick on its liquid ascendance to the flame. This will cause smoking and dripping. When this happens extinguish the candle and remedy the problem by pinching off the wick and mending the leak by pressing a little piece of the dripped wax into the low point. Candles need to be able to hold a pool of liquid wax.

For the best and cleanest burn your candle should be placed in an area free from drafts.  Drafts may cause your candle to drip or smoke.
When burning a pillar candle you may need to “hug” your candle after a few burns.  Hugging is the process of gently and evenly pushing in the edges of the candle.  This should be done when the wax warm but still firm.  You may even find caring for you candles enjoyable.
Enjoy your candles even when they are not burning.  Beeswax is a fascinating product of nature that you’ll enjoy inspecting.  The color, natural honey scent, weight and texture all make beeswax candles special.

First and foremost is the reality of the flame. Candles are perfect for bringing the lovely light of flame into a home, but they do require attention.  For your enjoyment and safety, please take the time to notice your candles as they burn and never leave a burning candle unattended.

Holders or plates are recommended when burning a candle but choose a material that is not combustible.  Metal, stone or glass is a preferred material for candle holders, avoid wood or plastic.