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Why does my candle have sinkholes?

Why does my candle have sinkholes?

Sinkholes, also known as sink craters or sink lines, can occur in pillar candles during the cooling and setting process. Sinkholes are sunken areas or depressions that form on the surface of the candle. There are a few potential reasons why your pillar candle may have sinkholes:

1. Cooling Rate: If the candle cools too quickly, it can result in sinkholes. Rapid cooling can cause the wax to solidify unevenly, creating depressions or sinkholes on the surface.

2. Pouring Technique: Improper pouring technique can contribute to sinkholes. If the wax is poured too quickly or from too high of a distance, it may trap air pockets or cause uneven cooling, resulting in sinkholes.

3. Wax Shrinkage: Some waxes have a tendency to shrink as they cool and solidify. If the wax used in your pillar candle has high shrinkage properties, it can lead to the formation of sinkholes.

4. Insufficient Wax Fill: If the mold is not filled with enough wax, it can result in sinkholes upon cooling. Ensure that the mold is properly filled to the desired level to prevent sinkholes from forming.

To minimize the occurrence of sinkholes in your pillar candles, consider the following tips:

1. Slow and Controlled Cooling: Allow the candle to cool at a steady and controlled rate in a draft-free environment. Avoid exposing the candle to sudden temperature changes or cold drafts, as these can cause uneven cooling and the formation of sinkholes.

2. Proper Pouring Technique: Pour the melted wax into the mold slowly and from a moderate height. This allows the wax to settle evenly and reduces the chances of trapping air pockets that can lead to sinkholes.

3. Fill the Mold Completely: Ensure that the mold is filled with enough wax to avoid sinkholes. Pay attention to the recommended fill level for the specific mold size and shape you are using.

4. Double Pour Method: Consider using the double pour method to minimize sinkholes. Pour a small amount of melted wax into the mold, allow it to cool partially, and then pour the remaining wax on top. This technique helps to reduce the shrinkage and the likelihood of sinkholes.

If sinkholes do occur in your pillar candle, you can try the following techniques to improve its appearance:

- Fill the sinkholes: Melt a small amount of additional wax and carefully fill in the sinkholes using a dropper or a small spoon. Smooth the surface with a heated spoon or a heat gun.

- Heat the surface: Use a heat gun or a hairdryer set on low heat to gently warm the surface of the candle. The heat will cause the wax to melt slightly and help even out the surface.

Remember that some minor imperfections, such as small sinkholes, do not affect the functionality or burnability of the candle. However, if the sinkholes are significant or affect the candle's appearance, you can use these techniques to address them.

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