If you’re new to candle-making, it might be a bit tricky to make things right. 

Wax types, loads and fragrances perform differently so there is no universal template to create the perfect candle. Burn testing is a way to test the performance of your candle's wax, fragrance, burning time and quality. It will let you tweak your creations to perfection. 

When to conduct a burn test

The right time to conduct a burn test is whenever you're trying to create, perfect or alter a recipe. A burn test can be done when incorporating dyes, elevating fragrance load, introducing enhancers or wax additives, altering wax blends, or using a new fragrance.  

What you'll need for burn testing:

• Candle/s (cured at least 24 hours earlier)
• Ruler
• Lighter
• Timer
• Pen and paper
• Phone (camera)

Conducting the test

Clear your schedule because this is going to take time. The candles must be always monitored. Ensure that the testing area does not have any drafts.

1. Make sure the candles are labelled. Note the oil, load, wax, wick, dye and container size used. 
2. On a flat and heat-resistant surface, place your candle. If you're testing more than one at a time, ensure they are at least six inches apart.
   
   
3. Using a ruler and pair of scissors, trim the wick to ¼ inch.
   
   
4. Light the candles, note the start time and observe.
   
   
5. Set hourly timers to record your observations. Take pictures. Extinguish candles after four hours. And immediately take pictures again.
   
   
6. Give the candles at least 5 hours to cool down.
   
   
7. Repeat steps 2 to 6 until only ¼ inch of wax remains.

You will need to evaluate the candle's performance throughout its lifespan, rather than just in the initial burns. Take pictures for every phase of the burn test. You will notice that each burning cycle is different. 

Details to observe

• Evaluate your melt pool by observing the melted wax diameter. Ideally, you are aiming for it to be no more than ¼ inch (6 mm) from the container edge after three to four hours. Allow for a little wax residue around the edges, which should melt by the third or fourth burn cycle.
  
  
• Candle flames are around one to two inches tall and mostly remain still during burning, though they may move slightly. Increased movement might occur as the wax level lowers due to heat buildup, but excessive movement could suggest a draft. If unsure, check for drafts and try burning in another location.
  
  
• A bit of soot when burning is normal, as it's just carbon buildup from the wick burning. Soy wax typically produces white soot, while paraffin wax produces black soot, but occasional bursts are nothing to worry about. However, if you notice frequent large plumes of soot or heavy buildup on the container edge, it may be a sign to adjust the wick or fragrance load.

Indicators that you've done things right

A properly burning candle should create an even wax pool across the entire surface of the container. This is an indicator that the wick is properly sized and positioned which results in even heat distribution. 

The flame should be steady and relatively upright throughout the burning process. A flickering flame can indicate issues such as a wick that's too long or drafts in the environment.

Your candles should only produce minimal smoke and soot buildup on the candle holder suggests incomplete combustion. Either of the two could be a result of a wick that's too long or poor-quality wax.

If the candle is scented, it should emit a pleasant scent without being overpowering. That scent should be consistent throughout the burn.

Patience, patience, and more patience

Remember that patience and meticulous observation are key to high-quality products. Testing before putting your candles on the market is essential to ensure your business meets industry safety standards and provides good products to your customers. 

Test, re-test and test again if necessary until you get your products to perfection.