Troubleshooting Storage and Display of Candles
Sometimes you may experience problems with your homemade candles when they
are in storage or on display. Sometimes, but not always, these problems indicate a problem in the
candle making process itself and helps to identify those problems. The
following is a troubleshooting guide to the storing and displaying of candles.
The Candle Color Fades
Possible Causes:
- UV rays from sunlight and artificial light
Possible Solutions:
- add a UV inhibitor to teh candle wax to reduce color fading
- over-dip the candle to restore the color
- store candles in a dark place
Color Shift or Discoloration
Possible Causes:
- oxidation
- "burned" candle wax (chemical structure of candle wax altered if exposed to high temperatures)
Possible Solutions:
- add BHT crystals to reduce discoloration from oxidation
- use the double boiler method to prevent wax from reaching
temperatures that will "burn" it
Warping or Bending of Candles
Possible Causes:
- the candle wax formula is too soft
- the candle is not stored flat
- the storage area is too hot
Possible Solutions:
- use a candle wax with a higher melt point
- use hardening additives such as stearic, Poly, etc.
- store the candles flat
- store the candles in a cooler area; 44-70° F is ideal
Chipping or Breaking of Candles
Possible Causes:
- the candle wax formula is too brittle
- inadequate packaging
- the storage area is too cold
Possible Solutions:
- use less hardening additive in the candle wax
- add micro wax or beeswax for "toughness" and pliability
- store the candles in heavy-duty cardboard boxes for protection
- store the candles in a warmer area; 44 to 70° F is ideal