Tips for Making Scented Candles with Strong Fragrance Throw

To achieve a good fragrance throw (how well the scent disperses) in your scented candles, consider the following key factors:

• Wax Type: Different waxes hold and release fragrance differently. Paraffin wax often provides a strong hot throw, while soy wax is known for a good cold throw. Blends can offer a balance. Choose a wax specifically designed for candle making.
• Fragrance Oil Quality and Type: Use high-quality fragrance oils specifically formulated for candles (candle-grade). Not all fragrance oils are suitable for high heat. Some scents naturally disperse better than others.
• Fragrance Load: Using too much fragrance oil can actually hinder scent throw. Most waxes have a limit to how much oil they can hold. A common recommendation is 6-10% by weight of the wax. Always follow the supplier's recommendations.
• Pour Temperature: Adding fragrance oil at the correct temperature helps it bind properly with the wax. This is typically done when the wax has cooled slightly after melting completely (often around 80-85°C, or as recommended by your wax supplier). Stir gently for 1-2 minutes after adding the oil.
• Curing Time: This is crucial! Allow your candles to cure for at least 1-2 weeks after pouring (soy wax may need longer). Curing allows the fragrance oil to fully bind with the wax, resulting in a much better scent throw when burned.
• Wick Size and Type: The right wick ensures a full melt pool, which is the area that releases the fragrance. Select a wick appropriate for your container size and wax type, and test burn to ensure a good melt pool.

Experimenting with these factors based on the specific materials you use is key to achieving a strong fragrance throw. Using high-quality ingredients, especially candle-specific fragrance oils, is a great starting point.

Examples of fragrance oils you might consider for candle making include Strawberry (Fragrance Oil), Jasmine Fragrance Oil, and Neroli Fragrance Oil.

By paying attention to these details, you can significantly improve the scent throw of your homemade candles.