Candle Surface Powder Problem
Troubleshooting Guide

A powder effect on the surface of candles can be caused by several things.

Pouring At Extremely Low Temperatures
Candles poured at extremely low temperatures will typically be completely covered with air bubbles. This makes the wax surface very fragile and it will crumble when handled. Usually this will occur on candles poured below 130 degrees F.

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.

Mold Release
Molds that have excessive mold release applied can sometimes cause a powdery surface on candles. This is especially so with vegetable based release compounds.

Prevention - Use a silicone based mold release and use it sparingly.

Release Wax
Plastic mold users that use release wax in their wax formula will sometimes experience the formation of what appears to be a powdery surface on the candle.

Prevention - Do not use release wax in plastic molds.

De molding Plastic Molds
Candles made in plastic molds sometimes form what appears to be a powdery surface on the candle when de molding.

Prevention - Candles should release from plastic molds very easily. If they do not, place in a freezer for a few minutes (until the mold is cold) before de molding. Do not leave in a freezer too long as the candle may crack.

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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.

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