Votive Candle Air Bubble Problem
Troubleshooting Guide

Air bubbles manifest themselves on votive candles in several ways.

Large Bubble(s) On Top
This is commonly found on votive candles made in metal votive cups. Trapped air bubbles out while cooling. This is caused by making the second pour too late. The first pour will separate from the mold allowing the second pour to trap air.

Prevention - The second pour should be timed so that the first pour is firm to the touch, yet still warm. It takes a bit of practice and experience.

Large Bubble(s) On Bottom
This is rarely a true air bubble, although it may appear to be. This is usually caused by water or other liquid which is heavier than wax in the bottom of the mold.

Prevention - Make sure the mold is dry. Allow the wax to sit for one minute before pouring. This will allow any water or other residue to settle to the bottom of the pouring pot. Avoid pouring any water / residue into molds if evident in pouring pot.

Bubbles On Sides
This is a fairly common problem that is easy to correct. This is usually caused by a pouring temperature that is too low. May also be accompanied by horizontal lines.

Prevention - Increase the pouring temperature. For room temperature metal molds 185 degrees F. is about right. If the molds are exceptionally cool a higher temperature may be needed.

If this does not help with your problem, please search our knowledgebase. If the answer is not in the knowledgebase, click here to submit your question.

Disclaimer: The information presented here is accurate to the best of my knowledge and common candle making practices as of the time of this writing - January 2006. The author and the publisher accept no liability for the use or misuse of any of the information presented in this article. This article is presented for informational purposes and is used at your own risk.

Author: Bob Sherman

Publisher: Bobby's Craft Boutique Inc.

This article is provided free of charge for use. Candles may be made and sold using this design royalty free, however no portion of this article may be reproduced for publication elsewhere without express permission from Bobby's Craft Boutique Inc. with the following exceptions:

• Non profit organizations such as religious groups, scouts, 4h, etc... may use this information without permission for printed materials provided it is used without modification and credit is given to both the author and onestopcandle.com
• Reprinting to the web is prohibited without permission, however web sites wishing to link to this article may do so without permission.

All other requests need to be submitted via our reprint request form.

Click here for current shipout time on orders