The Complete Guide to Candle Wicks

When it comes to candle making, wax and fragrance usually get most of the attention—but the wick is the true heart of a candle. It’s the wick that fuels the flame, controls how the candle burns, and even determines how much fragrance is released. Choosing the right wick can make the difference between a clean, long-lasting burn and a candle that tunnels, smokes, or fizzles out.

In this guide, we’ll explore what wicks are, why they matter, and the different types of wicks you can use in candle making.

What is a Candle Wick?

A wick is the braided or twisted piece of material (usually cotton, wood, or a blend) that carries melted wax to the flame. Think of it like a straw—drawing liquid wax upward, where it vaporizes and keeps the flame alive.

A good wick ensures:

• Steady flame – not too tall, not too small.

• Proper wax consumption – avoiding tunneling or wasted wax.

• Even fragrance throw – maximizing the candle’s scent release.

• Minimal smoke and soot – for a clean, enjoyable experience.

Types of Candle Wicks

There are several types of wicks, each designed for different kinds of wax,containers, and candle styles.

1. Flat Wicks

• Description: Made from three bundles of fibers woven together.

• Best for: Pillar candles and taper candles.

• Features: These are self-trimming, which means they curl as they burn, keeping the flame at a consistent height.

2. Square Wicks

• Description: Thicker and more robust than flat wicks, with a square braid.

• Best for: Beeswax candles and candles with additives.

• Features: Resist clogging and maintain a stable flame in denser waxes.

3. Cored Wicks

• Description: Have a central core (zinc, cotton, or paper) to keep them upright.

• Best for: Container candles, votives, and tealights.

• Features: The core provides stability, making them great for soft waxes like soy or paraffin.

4. Wooden Wicks

• Description: Thin, flat strips of wood.

• Best for: Container candles.

• Features: Create a soothing crackling sound, like a mini fireplace. They also offer a modern aesthetic.

5. Hemp Wicks

• Description: Braided hemp fibers, sometimes coated with beeswax.

• Best for: Natural candles (soy, coconut, or beeswax).

• Features: Eco-friendly, slow-burning, and produce minimal soot.

6. Specialty Wicks

• Ribbon Wicks: Wide and flat, offering a unique flame shape.

• Twin Wicks: Two wicks in one candle to ensure larger jars burn evenly.

• Self-Trimming Wicks: Curl and burn down at the tip to reduce maintenance.

How to Choose the Right Wick

When selecting a wick, consider these factors:

1. Wax Type: Some wicks work better with soy, others with beeswax or paraffin.

2. Candle Size: Larger jars may need thicker wicks or multiple wicks.

3. Additives: Dyes and fragrances can affect burn behavior.

4. Desired Burn Experience: Do you want a crackling wood wick or a clean, traditional cotton wick?

Final Thoughts

The wick may look like a small detail, but it’s the most critical element in candle making. The right wick ensures that your candle not only looks beautiful but also burns evenly, safely, and fills your space with fragrance.

Whether you prefer the eco-friendliness of hemp, the charm of wood, or the reliability of cotton, choosing the right wick can elevate your candle-making experience—and your customer’s too.