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The earliest evidence of candle making was over 5.000 years ago by the Egyptians with the use of a rushlight technique. This technique involved soaking a dried reed or piece of fabric inside a clay bowl filled with tallow (animal fat). Once lit, this method would ensure a steady and contained flame that would burn overnight. At approximately the same time period, the Chinese made wax wax with insects and seeds and used rice paper to produce wicks.
The wick is an instrumental part of all candles as it greatly influences how a candle burns. The purpose of a wick is to deliver fuel to the flame. Through capillary action, the melted candle wax is drawn up the wick to the flame, vaporises and combusts resulting in the burn. There are certain characteristics to consider when selecting a wick, the diameter of the candle, the burn desired and the elements of the wick material.
To ensure a clean and consistent burn, it is essential that the wick size is equated to the candle diameter. If the wick is too small it will generate insufficient heat to melt the wax resulting in an uneven burn or tunnelling. Equally, if the wick is too large it will create excess smoke and soot. Different wax types also have different characteristics that will be influenced by the type of wick used. Waxes burn at different temperatures with varying melting points therefore affecting the melt pool produced. Similarly, the introduction of fragrance to a candle will influence the type of wick used, as the ultimate goal is to have a candle burning correctly and releasing the optimum level of fragrance. The process of wicking is a fine balance of science and art, taking anything from months to even years to perfect.
The wicks used for our candles are coreless. non-directional, cotton flat braid with woven paper filament to promote maximum and consistent capillary action whilst maintaining a wick trimming flame posture. Due to the rigid nature of the wicks, they work well with highly fragranced natural waxes like coconut. As with all wicks, it is essential that it is regularly trimmed to maximise the candles longevity and output.
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