Candle & Wick Testing: The Rule of 2's

[@BlackTieBarn]

Let me know if you do something similar or have noticed some of the same issues I mentioned in the video. Thanks for watching and subscribe here (if not already) to catch future videos: kzbin.info

[@levibowie4253]

Thinking about making a candle business I ordered a kit and it actually turned out preety great , it has some cloudy white on the top and it seems the wick wasn’t quite big enough it left a little ring on the sides but it smelled nice when burning in a small bathroom , however , I have been thinking about making a business I have a logo and have ordered about 100 dollars worth of stuff from candle science , enough to make 12 8.5 oz candles - I have watched countless hours of your videos and researched so much it’s crazy but I’m 18 and I’ve so many questions I set up an account with tailor brands the one that has sponsored many of your videos , and that’s where the questions begin just with the legality of things like the bare minimum to be able to legally operate , marking , and how to build and deliver a website so it gets attention and sales , i have watched many hours on making and I’ve made a few I just feel like I need the extra help to set me up in the right direction to be successful instead of going in blind and being discouraged with lack of sales or quality . I’ve heard u mention a couple of times u do consultations and I’m not sure what u charge but i could manage to afford it I’d like to head somwhere in that direction out of all of these candle making videos yours are always the best in guidance . If u don’t see this that is okay but it would be appreciated so much if u could give me a reply or advice on any of this

[@Waxnstuffcandleshop]

You should create a testing work booklet and sell to new business owners, something that covers all of the testing/quality control based and has blank record sheets for new products. I would 100% buy that. Maybe like a book that teaches you how to do it, and then a separate book that had record sheets so we can buy the record sheets when we need more without having to buy the entire course book again!

[@BlackTieBarn]

So funny you mention that..I actually have that on my plans!

[@charlenegarcia5144]

I would buy it Wade💝👍

[@tammyhunsinger5798]

I would buy this book as soon as it came off the printed!!!!

[@steveweis1052]

I would so buy that book, I'm definitely in the starting the business phase.

[@dearmeecha1310]

I would also buy!

[@kellsgreenidge8885]

I firmly agree with you on this topic. I purchased two candles from a friend at a market last year November. I lit one a few months after it burned well. The other one, the wick refused to stay lit. It was a majority soy based wax but a different scent from the same supplier. Thanks for sharing because I was wondering how to tell her that it was not lighting at all. I will share this video with her.

[@BlackTieBarn]

No problem. And yep, definitely not alone. It's fairly common

[@lisaguzzardi]

She would probably want to know, I would tell her.

[@rebeccahatfield]

Oh Happy Sunday!!! I absolutely love when you post a new video on Sunday’s. Football and a great candle video?? Umm…hell yes 🏈 😂🖤 (go Falcons!)

[@BlackTieBarn]

🤣 thanks! My chiefs are tonight!

[@rebeccahatfield]

That was some game, DAYAM!!!! Fun to watch, good win 😮

[@BlackTieBarn]

NOT have been that much of a struggle. But their Def... ugh, always gives us fits.

[@janiyahaynes9507]

Thank you fo this email! I'm in the process of creating my candle line, and you always pop in my head when it comes to constant testing.

[@BlackTieBarn]

❤️❤️🤗

[@Freedom-xh2hc]

Another awesome video!!! Thank you thank you thank you!!! I never thought of testing after 2-3 weeks. You are my absolute go too, learning so much from you. You’re the BEST!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@BlackTieBarn]

❤️👍

[@chocolatesugar4434]

It’s so true I try to test after a few months and even a year! And it’s been very revealing!

[@BlackTieBarn]

For sure!

[@deirdre8523]

Thank you so much for this video - it helps a lot. I'm curious - do you make 3 different candles - 1 to burn in 2 days, another for 2 weeks & a 3rd for 2 months? Or do you use the same candle and just burn it at 2 days, 2 weeks & 2 months. Thank you for all of your videos, they have been a tremendous help to me as I just start out.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Either is fine. I typically use same one for the first couple unless I've used must of it already. But then the 2 money and periodic test I pull one from my stock.

[@inimueh]

Thank you for asking, I was wondering the same myself!

[@diamondsapphire5245]

WADE .... YOU'RE AWESOME!!! THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING💜

[@BlackTieBarn]

😁❤️🤣 thanks!

[@blakecollins549]

Love the videos like this!! Thanks for making it!

[@BlackTieBarn]

Np!

[@dearmeecha1310]

This made me happy because 2 days ago I made a candle and I was trying to wait 2 full weeks for the scent throw. This gave me an excuse to rest now and then in 2 weeks also! 😊 How long do you normally leave the candle lit for each time?

[@zaymaster820]

Looking for your video that tells your favorite cinnamon oil - I saw you mention it on another video I watched - but can’t find that one I am looking for a great cinnamon FO Congratulations on your new store 🎉

[@BlackTieBarn]

I haven't found any Cinnamon that ate necessarily love because I'm not a huge Cinnamon fan. But candle science Cinnamon candies is pretty good for straight Cinnamon. And iced Cinnamon rolls from nature's garden is good if you like that foodsly sweet type

[@MisterWhatWhat]

I found a soy container candle that I made 6 months ago and tested it, the HT was amazing! Another candle from the same batch I tested 2 weeks from making it and there was no HT. Time is key!

[@BlackTieBarn]

👍

[@Handmadebygas]

does this same rule apply for wooden wicks? Thanks

[@BlackTieBarn]

Yah it's more about testing the whole candle for consistency not just the wick.

[@ms_taree7335]

I like the message of being protected by having a history of testing. I am also not a lawyer, but one casually mentioned this to me this too. He makes almost a grand an hour so he MIGHT know what he is talking about too. lol! Is your testing booklet released yet?

[@Ttv_sparksHuB0888]

Hi wade I’ve been watching you for a while and I have started candle making and I was wondering if you was still doing the candle reviews I would love to send you a couple to try out

[@BlackTieBarn]

Not at the very moment as I'm just very backed up on my own business. Once I get caught up again I will go back to taking on more. I still have some here waiting to be done

[@leanneirwin8748]

I cannot find the notification bell which I would like to click on to get notifications. Please let me know where it’s at

[@BlackTieBarn]

It's a little different depending if on phone or computer but it's near the subscribe button which is usually near the video title and channel name. I'll post a community post later with a screenshot when I get a chance as well

[@PlumCrazyHomesteader]

Speaking of insurance, what options do you recommend for insurance?

[@abeirheib4871]

Thank you for sharing great topic. I am wondering if you keep your candles going for more than 4 hrs when you are testing?

[@BlackTieBarn]

Yes when testing for power burns. But not during the "normal test"

[@leannepage8908]

I would like to know how do I register to get on skill share because I do not see the link to register for it

[@BlackTieBarn]

Here you go. :) skl.sh/blacktiebarn10221

[@catherineayerasgarcia9985]

Hi! I hope you read this comment. Before I ask, my question, I’d like to congratulate you on having your new spaces for the business. my question is does it matter what temperature you store your candles while curing.? I live in Canada and my candle studio is downstairs in the garage. I cure my candles downstairs and it’s very cold where I live. Do you think that it’s OK to leave the candles curing in a cold environment or should I bring them upstairs in my kitchen which is warmer temperature than the garage. I really hope you can answer my question. Thanks in advance and good luck.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks Catherine! Appreciate that. As far as temp. So. Actually it's better to store materials and candles in cooler temperatures vs warm temp. It will prolong their life potential. But in terms of how it affects curing.... you want somewhere in between. Too warm and and it will take too long and too cool and they can cool too quickly cause cracking or other cosmetic issues. Somewhere between 70 and 74 is best for me. After a couple days , then I don't mind then being somewhere even cooler

[@catherineayerasgarcia9985]

@@BlackTieBarn thank you for the reply! I truly appreciate the knowledge you share to us beginners. Thank you so much and all the best!

[@havedna]

I am curious in all your testing have you found many example of HT/CT that diminished over a period of time. I have always heard longer “cure” I use this word loosely always certainly improved HT/CT or had no change. But I haven’t heard of examples were it was worse after letting it sit. I ask this because while I 100% agree with vigorous testing especially when it comes to candle safety, it seems very daunting to think it could be two months before someone knows they have a great working safe product, and then if not back to the drawing board for what could be another two month window.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Most people will tll you it depends on the wax. And while I agree somewhat I do the same for all my new candles/recipes. I test with a couple days. Then I test again a couple weeks later and then as mentioned a couple months. I dont do this necessarly because its going to be safe/unsae. Moreso to ensure consistency and see if there are improvements with HT or changes with how it burns and the wick. There isn't a black and white rule honestly.... just have to do your best and follow a process

[@insightbytes2136]

Are u trying the same exact candle each time or an identical one?

[@BlackTieBarn]

Just one from a batch made at that time

[@carolinechampion4375]

Thankyou this video was very interesting and helpful 😀😀

[@BlackTieBarn]

Np! Thanks caroline!

[@Lilyroot-f6x]

Great content! Thank you.

[@BlackTieBarn]

No problem

[@thejennarobertson2043]

This might be a silly question…do you have 1 candle that your burn for say 4 hours at each 2 day, 2 week, 2 month. Or do you make 3 candles so you can do multiple burn tests at the 2 day, 2 week, etc.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Not silly at all. Once I have what I think is a winner. I make a few from same batch One I test after two days. And then two more for later. It doesn't have to be done that exact way. The idea is.... to periodically test for consistency. 😀

[@BlackTieBarn]

Not silly at all. Once I have what I think is a winner. I make a few from same batch One I test after two days. And then two more for later. It doesn't have to be done that exact way. The idea is.... to periodically test for consistency. 😀

[@heatherrichards8513]

Hi Wade. Does the rule of 2’s work for coconut soy wax with recommended curing time being 1-2 weeks?

[@BlackTieBarn]

Hi Heather good question. The 2 week thing is really debatable. Some people swear by it and others day or does nothing. It will depend on the specific wax and the marker. But ilyu can modify it of course if you want. 2 weeks. 45 days, 3 months as example. The dictum time frames aren't the sort important part. It's just about testing for consistency and reliability. ;)

[@thepurpleparrotco.9084]

Hey Wade, on this method of 2’s…do you just do a basic test burn for about about 2 hrs each time, or do you do power burns for longer period?

[@BlackTieBarn]

My normal burns are the standard recommendation of 3-4 how at a time. 5 if larger jar

[@candlewhisperer]

Wade Thomas Great tutorial!!! As a new candlemaker, I have not even consider making my own testing rules!!! I have just made a candle and waited the recommended 2 weeks to perform a burn test. Is this the same as a burn test? Anyway, I will be making this a part of my testing from now on. Thanks again!!! Question should I make more than one test candle at a time?

[@BlackTieBarn]

Its up to you. Once I've narrowed down what I think is the winner. I make a small batch of like 2 or 3 and test those again later.

[@candlewhisperer]

@@BlackTieBarn thank you wade thomas

[@amandag5072]

I used to make unscented beeswax tealights. I thought I had the wicking perfected. I used to test them about a week after making. I happened to test them again a couple of months later and the flames were tiny and drowning. I tested more, they were all the same. I was gutted. I can only assume the wax takes much longer to fully harden.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Yep. Definitely not alone there. With soy waxes, I've changed my perspective over time with how I approach wicking. I actually go one size larger than I think I need. Because later.... I usually need it. Lol

[@angelaserra3175]

How does one go about testing though? I started a year ago and I’m STILL in the testing stages of my product and feel like I’ve put sooooo much money into the supplies I’m using to just test my candles. How do i test what i need to test but not waste all my money/product when doing so?

[@BlackTieBarn]

Hey Angela. I have several videos on testing that should help. But.... there is no way to test without using some materials. That's just the nature of it and cost of doing business ya know. It doesn't have to be crazy expensive but you do need to use materials to test. No way around it. It all comes back and makes it worth it when you stay selling and growing. But like most hobbies and businesses. If does take some investment

[@aqueue]

Is it standard to use best before or use by dates on your candles? Or batch numbers? Could that be helpful from the legal perspective that you were discussing? I guess you have good information from your testing however, it could be more specific if you batch tested (so much more work though right?)…

[@BlackTieBarn]

Some details are good but optional Like a batch number, etc. But personally I wouldn't do a best by date or expiration date as most candles get better with time. Plus it may deter customers from choosing them based on date. But that's just my opinion.

[@kaitytimmerman1182]

Can you use the same candle you use for the two day testing or make a new one?

[@BlackTieBarn]

Either way!

[@kaitytimmerman1182]

@@BlackTieBarn thanks marking that down have a great day

[@JustinHall]

Great info as always! So when you're testing a new candle using this method, you won't release it for sale until your surpass the 2 month period?

[@BlackTieBarn]

Great question. Not necessarily. It's a comfort thing. I feel good after the first couple weeks. But I do that extra check at 2 months and if not happy then I'll remove them from sale. Doesn't happen often but it has

[@JustinHall]

@@BlackTieBarn thanks for the reply! And that makes a lot of sense. It's not a bad method at all.

[@kelcyulrich7647]

It drives me nuts when I have a test candle that burns perfectly for the first 3 (4-hour) test burns & then boom! Burn #4 has a super high, sooty flame. 😮

[@BlackTieBarn]

Haha yep. The insanely frustrating world of wicking. 🤣

[@charlenegarcia5144]

I was going to order from Candle science. I watched ur video on ur top 10 waxes (for now... Lol) anyway shipping and handling is 65.00, almost 66.00 dollars.. O M GEE. Course I ordered jars, lids one oil. Do you have a favorite dye. I'm thinking of just leaving them white... Because... Well because I don't see too many recommendations on candle dyes out there... Wonder if I could use my cake gel dyes 🤔🤔🤔🙂😐

[@BlackTieBarn]

Yah it all depends what you are ordering, how much your ordering, and where is shipping too. The more you buy, the cheaper it is. The closer the supplier... the cheaper shipping (usually). Lots of factors.

[@charlenegarcia5144]

@@BlackTieBarn Thank you so much Wade!

[@lisaguzzardi]

I don't do the 2 month test it is more like 6 months (off season) but sometimes there are big suprises.... not all bad though.

[@BlackTieBarn]

💯

[@jamiejamison2306]

I’m a new candle maker. I launched my business two months ago. I use soy 10. I wait 14 days to wick test. I have videos of all of my testing and the wicks were perfect at 2 weeks. My sister bought one from me after it had been curing 3-4 weeks and the wicks were drowning out so I tested other candles I poured and only two worked. I was shocked. So now I have to rewick 7 of them. Should I wait three weeks to test? How do I know if that will work this time?

[@BlackTieBarn]

Hey Jamie. Yep that is the while reason I made this video. You aren't alone. It's very common with heavy soy waxes too. But the FO affects it too. You could test at 3 weeks instead of 2 if you want. Also make sure they are burning them "properly"

[@charnitacole1664]

I am literally just starting. I want to do the give away the first set of candles I make. I want to use them as a favor for my parent 50th Anniversary. Using a votive size. What are some tips? Good wicks? I will not be taking the candle out. Just using that size. I watch you over everyone.

[@sandywest4299]

tyvm

[@BlackTieBarn]

👍

[@GreenWitch1]

Can you track your testing in craftybase?

[@BlackTieBarn]

I do. :) I actually have a video on that specifically. If you got to my channel page and then the videos section, you can browse through. I don't have a link offhand but it's there somewhere. :)

[@GreenWitch1]

@@BlackTieBarn Good to know! I’ll get it in the near future. I’m just starting to order some supplies. Your videos have been very helpful!! Thanks so much 🤙🏼

[@levibowie4253]

Thinking about making a candle business I ordered a kit and it actually turned out preety great , it has some cloudy white on the top and it seems the wick wasn’t quite big enough it left a little ring on the sides but it smelled nice when burning in a small bathroom , however , I have been thinking about making a business I have a logo and have ordered about 100 dollars worth of stuff from candle science , enough to make 12 8.5 oz candles - I have watched countless hours of your videos and researched so much it’s crazy but I’m 18 and I’ve so many questions I set up an account with tailor brands the one that has sponsored many of your videos , and that’s where the questions begin just with the legality of things like the bare minimum to be able to legally operate , marking , and how to build and deliver a website so it gets attention and sales , i have watched many hours on making and I’ve made a few I just feel like I need the extra help to set me up in the right direction to be successful instead of going in blind and being discouraged with lack of sales or quality . I’ve heard u mention a couple of times u do consultations and I’m not sure what u charge but i could manage to afford it I’d like to head somwhere in that direction out of all of these candle making videos yours are always the best in guidance . If u don’t see this that is okay but it would be appreciated so much if u could give me a reply or advice on any of this

[@janiyahaynes9507]

Also, Idk how I can test a candle in 2 months. I burn candles so much. Normally, my stronger scents are "cured", well have a good HT & CT after two days.

[@BlackTieBarn]

It's optional. I do it because I've seen the wicking change over time.

[@juliafranzese1080]

i'm so nose blind! i am nonstop asking my husband "CAN YOU SMELL IT? CAN YOU SMELL IT?!!!"

[@BlackTieBarn]

😁 haha. Yep!

[@katherinenieves9658]

🙂

[@BlackTieBarn]

❤️