What Is A Wick Centering Tool?

A wick centering tool is a simple device used in candle making to center the wick in containers like jars, votives, and tea lights. It is a rod or disk that sits on top of the melted wax to hold the wick straight and in place while the candle sets up and hardens.

Wick centering tools are primarily used with container candles, as pillar candles and votives use their molds to center the wick. Container candles do not have the benefit of a mold, so a tool is needed to ensure the wick stays centered as the wax cools and shrinks.

Without a wick centering tool, the wick of a cooling container candle can easily shift to one side, resulting in a lopsided flame, uneven burning, and excess soot. Centering the wick is critical for proper candle function and an even burn.

Types of Wick Centering Tools

There are several types of wick centering tools available for candle making:

Candle wick trimmers are small scissors designed specifically for trimming candle wicks to the proper height before lighting. They allow for a clean, precision cut.

Wick prickers are needle-like tools used to center the wick by puncturing it and helping it stand upright in the melted wax. They ensure the wick burns properly without tunneling.

Wick straighteners are small metal devices that clamp around the wick to hold it straight while the wax hardens. This keeps the wick centered and upright.

Uses

A wick centering tool has two main uses in candle making:

1. To center candle wicks. Wick centering tools have holes drilled in them to hold the wick in place while the candle is being poured and sets. This ensures the wick remains upright and centered as the wax hardens.

2. To trim wicks to the optimal height. Once the candle is set, the wick centering tool can be used as a guide to trim the wick. The height of the holes indicates the ideal wick height for a good, even flame. Trimming the wick using the tool helps achieve the perfect wick height.

Proper wick centering and height are critical factors for candle performance and to prevent issues like tunneling. Wick centering tools allow candle makers to easily achieve good wick placement and height.

Benefits

Using a wick centering tool provides several key benefits for candle making:

Even Burning: Centering the wick helps ensure the wax melts evenly across the entire surface of the candle. This promotes a nice even burn without “tunneling” where wax melts faster around the sides of the wick.

Longer Burn Time: A centered wick maximizes the amount of wax that gets melted with each burn. This helps the candle last longer before all the wax is used up.

Reduce Smoke: An off-center wick can cause the flame to get too close to the glass on one side. This can create more smoke. Centering the wick prevents this issue.

As noted on the Simply Earth website, “It holds wick upright so that you can create beautiful candles.” https://simplyearth.com/products/wick-centering-tool

How To Use a Wick Centering Tool

Using a wick centering tool is an important step when making candles to ensure your wick is straight and centered before pouring wax. Here are some tips for properly using a wick centering tool:

First, thread your wick through the wick tab or sticker on the bottom of your candle container. Pull the wick taut so there is no slack. Next, slide the metal tube on your wick centering tool over the wick until the magnet grabs onto the wick. This will hold the wick straight and centered while you work.

Before pouring wax, double check that the wick is centered by looking from above the container. Make minor adjustments by gently moving the tool left or right until the wick is perfectly centered.

Next, carefully trim the excess wick above the metal tube, leaving just 1/4″ – 1/2″ remaining. This ensures the proper wick height for an ideal burn once the candle is poured and cooled. Be careful not to trim the wick too short.

Finally, gently slide the wick centering tool up and off the wick, being careful not to displace the centered wick. You can now pour your wax! The wick should remain straight and centered as the wax cools.

Maintenance

Properly maintaining your wick centering tool will help it last longer and function properly. Here are some tips for cleaning and storing your tool:

Cleaning: After each use, wipe down your wick centering tool with a damp cloth to remove any candle wax residue. You can use a mild dish soap if needed to cut through built up wax. Avoid submerging the tool in water or using abrasive cleaners that could damage the wood.

Storage: Store your wick centering tool in a clean, dry place when not in use. Avoid exposing it to moisture or extreme temperatures. You can store it in its original packaging or in a sealable plastic bag. Make sure the tool is completely dry before storing to prevent mold or warping. Storing the tool properly after each use will help prevent wax buildup and prolong its lifespan.

Buying Guide

When shopping for a wick centering tool, there are a few key factors to consider:

Material Types

Wick centering tools come in a variety of materials, the most common being:

• Metal: Stainless steel and aluminum centering tools are durable and long-lasting. Stainless steel resists rust.
• Wood: Typically made from hardwoods like maple or beech. Wood provides a smooth surface that won’t scratch glass containers.
• Plastic: Lightweight yet sturdy. Some plastic centering tools have measurement markings etched into the surface. Look for high-quality, food-safe plastics.

Metal and wood tools tend to provide the best longevity. Plastic is more affordable but may be prone to warping over time.

Quality Features

Look for centering tools with the following quality features:

• Precisely machined to create a smooth, tapered edge that easily inserts into containers.
• Sturdy, stable base that sits flat and prevents tipping.
• Measurement markings etched into the base (for plastic and metal tools).
• Made from food-safe, non-porous materials.

Avoid flimsy tools that seem like they could bend or warp easily. Also be cautious of low-quality wood tools with rough edges or splintering.

Opt for a wick centering tool made by a reputable candle making brand to ensure it meets proper quality and safety standards.

Top Brands

When it comes to wick centering tools, some of the top brands recommended by candle makers include:

CandleScience – CandleScience offers a basic metal wick centering tool that is sturdy and gets the job done. It has a pointed end to anchor the wick and a flat end to press it into place.

Nordic Candle Supply – Nordic Candle Supply has a variety of options including a basic wick setter and a more comprehensive wick centering kit. Their tools are specially designed for candle making and made in the USA.

Aztec Candle and Soap Making Supplies – For a multi-wick tool, Aztec Candle offers a stainless steel 3 wick centering template. It allows you to center up to 3 wicks at a time.

Wooden Wick – Wooden Wick has a wick centering tool made of plastic that has measuring increments on one side to help center wicks consistently.

When choosing a brand, consider the tool’s durability, ease of use, and special features like multi-wick capacity or measuring increments. The top brands provide reliable, well-designed tools to help candle makers center their wicks with precision.

Pricing

Wick centering tools range in price from around $1 to $15 depending on the features, quality and brand.

Basic plastic wick centering tools can cost as little as $1-2 from suppliers like Nordic Candle Supply (https://nordencandlesupply.com/products/wick-centering-kit). These get the job done but may not be as sturdy or last as long as metal tools.

Mid-range metal wick centering tools made by candle making brands generally cost $5-10. These are good quality tools built to last through regular use.

High end or professional wick centering tools can cost $10-15. These feature premium materials like stainless steel and extra features like screw adjustments. Brands like Candle Science and Lone Star Candle Supply offer these types of tools.

It’s also possible to make your own DIY wick centering tool for under $2 if you want to save money and don’t need anything fancy. Simple paperclip or wire designs can work fine.

So in summary, basic plastic tools start around $1, good mid-range metal tools $5-10, and high end stainless steel models $10-15+. DIY options under $2 are also viable.

Conclusion

In summary, a wick centering tool is an essential accessory for candle making. It allows you to quickly and easily center your wicks, ensuring an even burn and optimal performance. Choosing the right wick size for your candle type and dimensions is critical, and a good wick centering tool makes the process much more convenient.

When selecting a wick centering tool, opt for one made of durable metal with smooth yet grippy silicone tips. Stainless steel offers longevity and easy cleaning. Models with a weighted base provide stability during use. Consider the size of candles you make to determine the ideal tip width and centering range.

With practice, a quality wick centering tool can help you perfectly place wicks every time for professional-looking, great burning candles. The small investment is well worth it for any avid candle maker. Just remember to keep the tool properly maintained and clean for ongoing precise use.