How to Add Fragrance
Adding fragrance is an important step in candle making because it gives the candle its desired scent and helps create a pleasant experience when the candle is burned. The type of wax, fragrance oil, temperature, and fragrance percentage all affect the final result.
Step-by-Step Process
1. Choose a Candle-Safe Fragrance Oil
Always use a fragrance oil that is specifically suitable for candle making. Check the supplier’s recommended usage rate and safety information.
2. Measure the Wax
Weigh the required amount of wax before melting. Accurate measurements help maintain a consistent fragrance percentage.
3. Melt the Wax
Melt the wax according to the recommended temperature for that particular wax. Avoid overheating the wax.
4. Check the Temperature
Before adding fragrance, allow the wax to reach the fragrance manufacturer’s recommended mixing temperature. The ideal temperature can vary depending on the wax and fragrance.
5. Measure the Fragrance
Use a digital scale rather than measuring by volume. A common starting point is around 6–10% fragrance by wax weight, but always follow the wax and fragrance supplier’s recommendations.
6. Add the Fragrance Slowly
Pour the measured fragrance into the melted wax carefully. Avoid splashing and unnecessary exposure to the fragrance.
7. Stir Thoroughly
Stir gently and consistently for approximately 1–2 minutes, or according to the wax manufacturer’s instructions. Proper mixing helps distribute the fragrance throughout the wax.
8. Pour the Candle
Once the wax reaches the recommended pouring temperature, carefully pour it into the prepared container or mould.
9. Allow the Candle to Cure
Let the candle cool undisturbed. Many scented candles benefit from a curing period before burning, particularly soy and other vegetable-wax candles.
Important Tips
- Don’t exceed the maximum fragrance load recommended for your wax.
- Use only fragrance oils that are suitable for candle applications.
- Measure fragrance accurately with a digital weighing scale.
- Different fragrances can behave differently in the same wax.
- Test the candle for wick performance, melt pool, flame behavior, and fragrance throw.
- Keep fragrance oils away from direct flames and follow the supplier’s safety instructions.
Understanding Fragrance Load
Fragrance load is the amount of fragrance used in relation to the amount of wax. For example, if you use 1,000 g of wax at an 8% fragrance load, you would use 80 g of fragrance oil.
Note: Some manufacturers define fragrance percentage based on the total finished candle weight rather than wax weight, so always check the calculation method specified by your wax supplier.
In Short
Measure the wax and fragrance accurately, melt the wax correctly, add fragrance at the recommended temperature, stir thoroughly, and allow the candle to cure before testing. Proper fragrance addition helps achieve a consistent and pleasant scented candle.
