Arcana Archives

Correct candle care begins with the first burn. Keep the flame lit long enough for the wax pool to reach every edge. Most candles need at least two hours, sometimes longer depending on their size. This helps the wax set a clear memory. If you extinguish the flame too early, the wax tunnels. The wick sinks, struggles to breathe, and may disappear completely beneath the surface. Once this has happened, you may be able to dig the wick out and relit it. However, in most cases, the candle should no longer be used for any spellwork as its a clear sign that it’s just not going to happen.

Choose proper holders as part of correct candle care. Thick glass or ceramic protects surfaces and holds the melted wax in place. A votive on its own might last five hours, but inside a safe container, it can burn for fifteen or more. Never use metal. It retains heat, warps surfaces, and becomes dangerous to move once hot.

Trim the wick before each burn. Keep it close to half a centimetre. This small step supports correct candle care by preventing soot, reducing smoke, and encouraging a steady melt. A long wick burns the wax unevenly and creates a flame that rises too high, wasting both wax and time.

Some believe freezing helps candles last longer. I avoid this. Freezing can crack the wax, distort the shape, and dull the colour. With handmade candles, those changes can shift the way they burn. If you try it, limit the time to a few hours and inspect the candle closely before lighting. Damage from freezing works against correct candle care rather than improving it.