Choosing The Right Scent: Fragrance Ounces In Candles

When making candles, it's important to calculate the amount of fragrance oil to use, as this can affect the candle's scent throw, as well as its burning characteristics. The general rule of thumb is to use 1 oz of fragrance oil per pound of wax, which equates to a 6% fragrance load. However, the type of wax and fragrance oil, as well as personal preferences, can also play a role in determining the optimal fragrance load, which typically ranges from 5% to 10%. To calculate the fragrance load, one can use a simple formula: fragrance load (%) = fragrance oil (oz) / wax (oz) x 100. By considering these factors, candle makers can ensure they achieve the desired scent and performance from their candles.

The impact of fragrance load on candle quality

The fragrance load in candles is the amount of fragrance, expressed as a percentage, relative to the wax. The fragrance load typically falls between 5% and 10%, depending on the type of wax used. For example, soy wax generally has a fragrance load of 5-10%, while coconut soy wax can usually take up to 12%. It's important to note that the fragrance load is different from volume measures like fluid ounces.

Using the correct fragrance load is crucial for producing good-quality candles. If too little fragrance is used, the candle will have a low scent throw, meaning the scent may be weak or barely noticeable. On the other hand, using too much fragrance can overload the wax, leading to issues such as candle sweating, curdling, or even difficulty in holding a flame. Therefore, finding the right balance is essential.

The type of fragrance oil used also plays a role in determining the fragrance load. Some fragrance oils are highly concentrated, so using too much can lead to problems with soot, smoke, and poor burning characteristics. Additionally, adding more fragrance oil beyond a certain point will not significantly improve the scent throw. In fact, some weaker fragrance oils on the market are diluted with solvents, and using too little of these may result in an inadequate scent throw.

To calculate the fragrance load, it is recommended to use a percentage to ensure consistent results. The formula involves dividing the weight of the fragrance oil by the weight of the wax and then multiplying by 100 to get a percentage. For example, if you have 1 ounce of fragrance oil and 16 ounces of wax, the fragrance load would be calculated as follows: (1/16) x 100 = 6.25%. This percentage can then be used to adjust the amount of fragrance oil or wax accordingly to achieve the desired scent throw.

How to calculate fragrance load

The fragrance load of a candle is the amount of fragrance, expressed as a percentage, in relation to the wax used. It is important to calculate this correctly to produce a good quality candle. Using too much fragrance can result in candles with dry or lumpy wax or even those that do not hold a flame.

The fragrance load is usually between 5-6% but can go up to 10% depending on the type of wax and fragrance oil used. For example, the recommended fragrance load for a soy wax candle is generally between 5% to 10% of the weight of the wax used in the candle. However, some waxes can hold up to 2 oz. of fragrance per pound, which equates to a 12% fragrance load.

To calculate the fragrance load, you need to know the container capacity, which is based on the size of the candle container and how much wax will fit inside. For example, if you are making a candle that is 180 grams net weight, this is your starting point.

Once you have determined the container capacity, you can decide on the fragrance oil load percentage. 6% is a commonly recommended amount, but you can use up to 10% for a stronger scent throw.

To calculate the amount of wax needed, use the following formula:

Wax amount (grams or ounces) = Container capacity (grams or ounces) / (1 + Fragrance oil percentage)

For example, if you have a container capacity of 180 grams and want a 10% fragrance load:

Wax amount = 180 / (1 + 0.10) = 166.67 grams

To calculate the fragrance oil weight, subtract the wax amount from the container capacity:

Fragrance amount (grams or ounces) = Container capacity (grams or ounces) - Wax amount (grams or ounces)

Using the same example, the fragrance amount would be:

Fragrance amount = 180 grams - 166.67 grams = 13.33 grams

It is important to note that you should always work with weight (grams or ounces) when measuring fragrance oil and candle wax, not volume measures (e.g., fluid ounces). Additionally, fragrance oil can react with certain containers, so it should not be left in a paper cup for more than a few seconds, and plastic containers should be avoided.

The importance of wax type

The type of wax you use in candle-making is extremely important as it determines the overall quality of the candle. The wax is considered the ''fuel' of the candle.

There are many different types of waxes available, including beeswax, soy wax, paraffin wax, gel, palm wax, coconut wax, rapeseed wax, and blended wax. Each wax has its own unique characteristics, pros, and cons, which make it a good choice for particular types of candles.

For example, paraffin wax is the most popular and widely used wax for candle-making. It is inexpensive, versatile in terms of melting points, and can hold a high amount of fragrance and colour. However, it is not considered eco-friendly as it is a byproduct of the oil industry and it does not burn 'cleanly', creating soot.

Soy wax, on the other hand, is a mid-range, natural, and renewable wax with a slow burn, making it great value for money. It is considered more eco-friendly than paraffin wax, although there are concerns about its contribution to deforestation and the use of pesticides and fertilisers in soybean production. Soy wax is also more difficult to work with as it is temperamental with temperature changes and doesn't hold as much fragrance.

Beeswax is one of the oldest forms of candle wax and is another eco-friendly option as it is derived from bees during the honey-making process. It has a very subtle, naturally sweet aroma and is a harder, more solid wax that is often used in blends for container candles or unscented pillars.

Coconut wax is a newer type of wax that is harvested from coconuts, which are a high-yield and sustainable crop. It is popular because it holds fragrance and colour very well, has a clean burn, and produces very little soot. However, it tends to be the most expensive candle wax.

Ultimately, the type of wax you choose depends on personal preference, the type of candle you want to make, your budget, the desired strength of fragrance, and how eco-conscious you are.

The role of personal preference

The type of wax and fragrance oil used are fundamental factors that interact with personal preference. For instance, soy wax typically accommodates a fragrance load of 5% to 10%, while blended waxes like coconut soy wax can withstand up to 12%, resulting in a very strong scent throw. Thus, the choice of wax becomes a crucial aspect of personal preference, as it directly impacts the fragrance load and the overall strength of the scent.

Additionally, the desired strength of the scent throw is a highly subjective matter. Some individuals might prefer a subtle fragrance that gently fills a room, while others might opt for a stronger, more pervasive aroma. This preference will dictate the amount of fragrance oil added, as a higher fragrance load often leads to a more potent scent throw. However, it is essential to exercise caution, as exceeding the recommended fragrance load for a specific type of wax can lead to issues such as candle sweating, curdling, or wicking problems.

Moreover, personal preference also comes into play when selecting the specific fragrance oil. With a diverse range of scents available, from floral and fruity to musky and earthy, candle makers can tailor their creations to their unique taste or the intended atmosphere they wish to create. The choice of fragrance oil can be influenced by factors such as favourite scents, seasonal influences, or even specific occasions, allowing for a highly personalised candle-making experience.

In conclusion, personal preference is a pivotal aspect of determining the amount of fragrance oil in candles. It empowers candle makers to craft unique, customised creations that cater to their desired scent throw, strength, and overall sensory experience. By taking into account factors such as wax type, fragrance oil options, and the intended intensity of the scent, individuals can create candles that not only meet their technical requirements but also align with their distinctive tastes and preferences.

Common issues with fragrance load

The fragrance load of a candle is the percentage of fragrance in relation to the amount of wax used. The fragrance load is typically between 5-6%, but can vary depending on the type of wax and fragrance oil used. For example, the recommended fragrance load for a soy wax candle is between 5% to 10%.

There are a few common issues that can arise when working with fragrance loads in candle-making. One issue is using too much fragrance, which can result in candles with dry or lumpy wax, or candles that do not hold a flame. This can also cause "sweating", where the fragrance separates from the wax and collects on top of the candle in small beads. This can be fixed by re-melting the wax and fragrance together, and stirring gently for 2 minutes to ensure the fragrance binds properly.

Another issue is using too little fragrance, which can result in a low scent throw. This can be fixed by increasing the fragrance load. It's important to find the right balance between too much and too little fragrance, as this can affect the burning characteristics of the candle, causing issues with soot and smoke.

Additionally, the temperature at which the fragrance is added can impact the final product. If the fragrance is added at too low a temperature, it may not bind properly to the wax and will rise to the surface of the candle, causing an uneven scent throw. To avoid this, fragrance oil should be mixed at a temperature between 72°C and 75°C, and stirred continuously for 2 minutes to ensure proper binding.

Finally, the type of wax and fragrance used can also impact the fragrance load. Different waxes have different maximum scent loads, and not all fragrances are created equal. Some fragrances are weaker and more diluted, and may require a higher percentage to achieve the desired scent throw. It's important to experiment with different fragrance loads and types of wax and fragrance to find the right combination for your candles.

Frequently asked questions