Features
- Size #3
- For up to 3.5 inch diameter beeswax candles
- 100% Natural Cotton
- Each spool is sold by weight
- Approximately 170 yards per pound of wick
-
Unprimed (uncoated), Raw, Lead/Nickel-free
- Thickness (approximate): 2.57mm
- Made in USA
Description
Square braid wicks were designed for the viscosity of beeswax candles but they can still be used with soy, paraffin and vegetable waxes too. Our wicks are raw, untabbed, and lead-free.
This is a single spool of raw PremiumCraft #3 Square Braid wick.The tare weight of the spool is the raw weight selected in product listing (does not include the paper core weight).
What's the difference between #3 and #3/0 wick?
The main and only difference is size. The #3 wick thicker and is suitable for larger candles, while the #3/0 wick is thinner and is suitable for smaller candles. See the second product photo for a direct comparison.
Instructions
Before use, soak the wick in molten wax of your choice. This process prepares your wick for use in candle making. Soak in molten wax until bubbles stop rising to the surface. Results may vary. Experimenting is strongly recommended.
The first burn of a candle is important in setting the pace for how the candle will burn every other time that it's lit. When you light your candle for the very first time, make sure that it burns long enough to melt the wax all the way to the outer edge. This may take several hours. The general rule of thumb is to let the candle burn for approximately an hour per every inch of diameter. It's also important to not overtrim the wick length every time the candle is lit. A wick that's trimmed too short will not allow the candle to burn hot enough and may cause tunneling. A wick that is not trimmed far enough could cause the candle to burn too hot and may cause smoking.
Understanding Wick Sizes
Selecting the right wick size for your beeswax candle can be a bit of trial and error, but don't worry — this guide will help you get started and understand the key factors that influence how your wick performs. Keep in mind that candle making is more of an art than a science, so while we provide general recommendations, every candle is unique.
Key Factors That Affect Wick Performance:
- Wax Type & Purity: The quality and purity of your wax play a big role in how the wick burns. Pure beeswax tends to burn more slowly and requires a different wick size compared to blends with softer waxes like coconut or paraffin. If you're working with a blend, you may need to use a thinner wick.
- Wax Blends: Blends with softer waxes often burn hotter and faster, meaning a thinner wick may be needed to avoid overburning. If you’re using pure beeswax, our recommendations will likely apply, but you may need to adjust based on the specific wax blend.
- Container Type: The size, shape, and material of the container all play a significant role in how the wick burns. Larger containers may require thicker wicks to create a steady melt pool, while smaller containers often need finer wicks to avoid an oversized flame. In some cases, a single wick might not be enough, especially for larger or deeper containers. This is where double wicking comes in. Using two wicks ensures an even burn and helps prevent tunneling, where the wax melts unevenly around the wick. Double wicking is especially useful for larger candles or containers with a wide diameter. When one wick isn’t sufficient to provide enough heat for an even melt, multiple wicks work together to ensure your candle burns properly and safely.
- External Variables: Things like room temperature, humidity, and airflow can all impact how the wick burns. A wick that works great in one environment might need adjustments in another, so testing is key.
While we offer recommendations to help you get started, it’s important to note that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to candle making. Performance can vary due to many factors, including the composition of your wax, the type of container you use, and environmental conditions like temperature and humidity.
Start with the wick size we suggest, but don’t hesitate to make adjustments based on how your candle burns. Experimenting is part of the fun, and through trial and error, you’ll discover the perfect wick for your unique candles.
Candle making is an evolving craft, and finding the right balance requires both time and patience. We’re here to support you, but ultimately, it’s your creativity that will lead you to the best results!