Adding Fragrance (Candle-making)

Adding fragrance is an essential step in the candle-making process that involves incorporating a specific scent into a candle. The fragrance can come in the form of essential oils, fragrance oils, or a combination of both. The process of adding fragrance to candles is crucial for making high-quality and appealing candles. In this article, we'll delve into the specifics of adding fragrance in candle-making.

The first step in adding fragrance to candles is to determine which type of fragrance is appropriate. Essential oils are derived from plants and have a more natural scent. Fragrance oils, on the other hand, are synthetic and have a more complex and diverse range of scents. Depending on the desired scent and its purpose, candle-makers may choose either essential oils or fragrance oils, or a blend of both.

Once the desired fragrance has been chosen, the next step is to measure the appropriate amount of fragrance needed for a particular batch of wax. Generally, the acceptable fragrance-to-wax ratio is between 6-10%, although this depends on the quality of the wax and the strength of the fragrance. The fragrance amount added to the wax for the candle should be carefully measured to avoid under or over-fragrancing which can affect the final product's scent throw.

When the fragrances have been measured, the next step is to add them to the melted wax. Candle-makers are advised to add the fragrance when the wax is at the right temperature to enable the fragrance to blend well. Wax temperature is dependent on the type of wax used, and it is recommended to check the manufacturer's instructions before adding any fragrance.

It is essential to stir the wax and fragrance mixture thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the scent. The duration of stirring should be long enough to make sure the scent is well blended into the wax. Special attention should be paid when fragrance oils are added, as they can cause temporary discoloration in the wax.

After the fragrance is added and thoroughly stirred, the wax is then poured into the candle containers, and left to cool and set. The time taken for cooling and setting is also dependent on the type of wax used.

In conclusion, the process of adding fragrance to candles is a methodical process that requires careful consideration of the type of fragrance, appropriate ratio, right temperature, and proper mixing. By following these steps, the result is a high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, and sweetly scented candle that is a delight to all senses.