Candle-Making: The Right Fragrance Oil Quantity For 8-Oz Candles

Creating candles with the perfect fragrance load can be tricky. The amount of fragrance oil you use will depend on the type of wax and fragrance oil you're working with, as well as your desired scent strength. For an 8 oz candle, the recommended fragrance load typically falls between 5% to 10% of the weight of the wax used. This ensures a pleasant, balanced scent without being too overpowering.

Calculating fragrance oil for an 8 oz candle

The amount of fragrance oil you add to an 8 oz candle depends on the type of wax used and the desired strength of the scent. The fragrance load, or the amount of fragrance oil added, is usually between 5% and 10% of the weight of the wax used. For example, if you're using a soy wax, the fragrance load will typically be on the lower end of that range, while a blended wax like coconut soy wax can take up to 12% for a very strong scent.

To calculate the amount of fragrance oil needed, follow these steps:

Step 1: Determine the weight of your wax

First, you need to know the weight of the wax you will be using in your 8 oz candle. This is because the fragrance load is calculated as a percentage of the weight of the wax.

Step 2: Decide on the fragrance load percentage

Choose the desired fragrance load percentage based on the type of wax and the strength of the scent you want. For an 8 oz candle, a 5% to 10% fragrance load is typical, but you can go higher or lower depending on your preferences and the type of wax.

Step 3: Calculate the amount of fragrance oil

Multiply the weight of the wax by the fragrance load percentage. This will give you the amount of fragrance oil in ounces that you need to add to your 8 oz candle.

For example, if you're using 7 oz of wax and want a 10% fragrance load, you would calculate it as follows:

7 oz * 10% = 0.7 oz of fragrance oil

So, for this 8 oz candle, you would add 0.7 oz of fragrance oil to your 7 oz of wax.

Tips for accurate measurements

• Always use a scale to measure both the wax and fragrance oil for consistency and accuracy.
• Remember to work with weight ounces, not fluid ounces.
• Choose a fragrance oil that aligns with your desired scent strength and is compatible with your chosen wax type.
• Conduct test burns of your 8 oz candle to ensure the scent throw and wick performance meet your expectations.

Tips for accurate measurements

When it comes to candle-making, accuracy in measuring your ingredients is crucial. Here are some tips to ensure you get precise measurements when crafting your 8 oz candle:

Use a Scale

Always use a scale to measure your wax and fragrance oil. This ensures consistency and accuracy in your candle-making process. A scale specifically designed for candle-making, such as a candle and soap scale, can help you achieve precise measurements.

Understand Weight Ounces vs. Fluid Ounces

It is important to remember that when measuring, you are working with weight ounces, not fluid ounces. This distinction is crucial, and being mindful of the difference will help you measure your ingredients accurately.

Calculate the Fragrance Load

The fragrance load is the amount of fragrance oil you use relative to the weight of your wax. To calculate the fragrance load, simply multiply the weight of your wax by the desired fragrance load percentage. For example, if you want a 10% fragrance load for an 8 oz candle, you would use 0.8 oz of fragrance oil (8 oz x 10% = 0.8 oz).

Choose the Right Fragrance Oil

Different fragrance oils have varying potencies, so select one that aligns with your desired scent strength. Additionally, some fragrance oils perform differently with specific wax types, so be sure to choose an oil that is compatible with the wax you are using.

Test Your Candle

Before making multiple candles, conduct a test burn to ensure the scent throw and wick performance meet your expectations. Burn the candle for a few hours in a well-ventilated area, then evaluate the strength of the scent and observe the wick's behaviour. You can make adjustments to the fragrance load or wick size based on your observations.

Avoid Common Pitfalls

There are a few common mistakes to avoid when adding fragrance oil to your candles. Firstly, ensure you add the fragrance oil at the correct temperature, as adding it too early or too late can cause issues like uneven distribution. Secondly, always stir the fragrance oil thoroughly to ensure an even scent throughout the candle. Finally, stick to the recommended fragrance load to avoid overpowering scents and potential issues like candle sweating or curdling.

Choosing the right fragrance oil

Potency and Compatibility:

Start by considering the potency of the fragrance oil. Different oils have varying strengths, so choose one that aligns with your desired scent intensity. It's important to select an oil that is compatible with your chosen wax type. Research and test different oils to find those that perform well with your specific wax.

Flashpoint:

The flashpoint of a fragrance oil is the temperature at which it will ignite if exposed to an open flame. For candle-making, it is essential to choose oils with a suitable flashpoint to ensure safety.

Testing and Adjustments:

Before committing to a large batch, conduct test burns with your chosen fragrance oil. Burn the candle for a few hours in a well-ventilated area and evaluate the strength of the scent throw. Observe the behaviour of the wick and make any necessary adjustments to the fragrance load or wick size based on your observations. This iterative process will help you refine your candle-making technique and ensure the best results.

Common Pitfalls:

Be mindful of common mistakes when adding fragrance oil to your candles. Avoid adding the oil at the wrong temperature, as this can lead to uneven distribution. Ensure that you stir the oil thoroughly into the wax for an even scent throughout the candle. Do not exceed the recommended fragrance load to prevent overpowering scents and potential issues such as candle sweating or curdling.

Troubleshooting:

If you encounter problems like weak scent throw or frosting on your candles, don't panic. Experimentation is a key part of the candle-making process. Try different fragrance loads and wax types to find the optimal combination for your specific candle creation.

Online Resources:

Utilize online resources and marketplaces to find high-quality fragrance oils suitable for candle-making. Websites like CandleScience offer recommendations and suggestions for fragrance mixing, providing guidance on which oils complement each other.

Testing your 8 oz candle

Conducting a Baseline Test:

Start by choosing a consistent container for your candle and selecting the wax blend you plan to use. The next step is to determine the appropriate wick size. Refer to the wick charts provided by the manufacturer or supplier, and select 2-3 wick sizes from the same brand to test. For this initial test, it is recommended to use no fragrance oil and fill the container halfway with wax. This allows you to observe how the candle burns as it gets insulated further down. Allow the wax to cure for 1-2 days before lighting it. Burn the candle for a few hours in a well-ventilated area, and evaluate the performance.

Conducting a Burn Test with Fragrance:

For this test, use the same batch of wax for all your test candles to eliminate any variation. Label your candle or use a marker to write notes on the bottom, including the wax type/blend ratio and the percentage of fragrance used. Allow your candle to cure for 3-5 days before the test burn. Light your test candle away from windows or drafts, ensuring it is burning on a level, heat-resistant surface. Set a timer for approximately 1 hour of burn time for each 1 inch in diameter. If the candle reaches a full melt pool during this time, proceed to evaluate the results.

Evaluating the Results:

• Hot throw: Assess whether the candle emitted a true-to-fragrance scent while burning, and if the scent extended into the surrounding space. For an 8 oz candle, the fragrance should fill 8-10 square feet. If the intensity is lacking, consider retesting with a higher fragrance load or a different wick size.
• Wick condition: Examine the wick after burning. If you observe significant carbon buildup, resembling rounded mushroom tops, this indicates an oversized wick. In this case, you should test with a smaller wick size. Excessive carbon buildup can lead to safety issues as it causes the candle to burn too quickly and generate excessive heat.
• Discoloration: After the test burn, allow the candle to cool and check for any discoloration where the melt pool was. If dark discoloration occurs, it could be a sign that the wick is too large, causing the melt pool to overheat. Some fragrances with a high amount of vanillin may cause minor discoloration.

Testing Fragrance Compatibility:

Once you've determined the wick size that works consistently with your chosen wax blend and container, it's essential to test every fragrance you plan to use. Fragrance oil can alter the viscosity of your candle, so a wick size that worked previously may need adjustment. Test at the lower end of the usage rate to avoid wasting fragrance. Generally, a good hot throw can be achieved at 6-8% fragrance load. If you're not getting a strong hot throw, try adjusting the wick size rather than increasing the fragrance load.

Additional Testing Tips:

• Start with small batches: Begin with small batches to conserve resources and avoid waste. This allows you to experiment with multiple fragrances without committing to large quantities.
• Consistency: Use the same wax type, wick size, and fragrance concentration for all your tests. This ensures that you're evaluating the impact of the fragrance rather than variations in materials.
• Labelling and record-keeping: Label each sample with the fragrance name, concentration, wax type, and date. Keep detailed records of your test results to track what works and what doesn't. Take notes on your observations and make adjustments as needed.
• Patience: Allow your candles to cure for at least 10-14 days before testing. This gives the fragrance sufficient time to integrate with the wax, revealing its true character.
• Varied testing environments: Test your candles in different settings, including small and large rooms, with and without drafts, to understand how the scent performs under various conditions.
• Gather feedback: Don't rely solely on your sense of smell. Seek feedback from a small group of trusted testers to get diverse perspectives on the fragrance's performance.

Avoiding common mistakes

To avoid common mistakes when making an 8 oz candle, it is important to consider the following factors:

Fragrance Oil Load Percentage

The fragrance oil load percentage is crucial in determining the strength of the scent throw. Too little fragrance oil may result in a weak aroma, while too much can lead to an overpowering scent and potential issues such as candle sweating or curdling. The recommended fragrance load for an 8 oz candle typically falls between 5% to 10% of the weight of the wax used. This range ensures a pleasant and balanced scent without being overwhelming.

Wax Type

Different types of wax have varying capacities for holding fragrance. Soy wax candles generally have a lower fragrance load compared to blended waxes like coconut soy wax. The type of wax you choose will impact the amount of fragrance oil needed to achieve the desired scent strength.

Potency of Fragrance Oil

Not all fragrance oils are created equal. Some are more potent than others, so choosing one that aligns with your desired scent strength is important. If you want a stronger scent, opt for a more potent fragrance oil, but be mindful of the recommended load percentages to avoid issues.

Compatibility with Wax Type

Different fragrance oils perform differently with various wax types. It is important to do your research and find oils that are compatible with the specific wax you have chosen for your 8 oz candle.

Temperature

Adding fragrance oil at the wrong temperature can cause issues like uneven distribution. Ensure that your wax is at the correct temperature before adding the fragrance oil.

Stirring Thoroughly

Properly mixing the fragrance oil into the wax is crucial for an even scent throw throughout the candle. Incomplete mixing can lead to an uneven distribution of the fragrance.

Weighing Ingredients

It is important to weigh your fragrance oil and wax accurately. Using measuring cups to measure by volume instead of weight can lead to mistakes. Always use a scale to ensure consistency and accuracy in your candle-making process.

Flashpoint of Fragrance Oil

The flashpoint of a fragrance oil is the temperature at which it will ignite if exposed to an open flame. Choose fragrance oils with a suitable flashpoint for candle-making to ensure safety.

Frequently asked questions