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Candle making may seem like a pretty simple process. But, I am committed to your understanding the properties and qualities of my candles so that you can have the best customer experience and make the most of your purchase.
Wax- I use soy wax because it is non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty-free. It's a byproduct of soybean farming so it's a renewable ingredient and supports our country's farmers. It burns longer and slower and emits far less pollutants than traditional waxes and that means it's safer for your home, your family, and your pets.
Fragrance Oils- All of the scents that I use are sourced from manufacturers for use specifically in candle making, all with the safety of the environment in mind. They also fall outside of the Proposition 65 warning (https://oehha.ca.gov/proposition-65/about-proposition-65) and are paraben and phlalate free. That means burning these candles does not contaminate the air with health risks.
Wicks- I use braided cotton, lead-free, zinc-free wicks; the types specifically made for the wax I use. The wick and wax are a perfect pairing for optimal burning time and safe flame length. That means that your candle will maintain a balance between optimal burning time and scent throw.
Burn Time- all of the materials/properties above interact to effect how long your candle will burn. What you might not know is that you can optimize burn time with some simple candle care (see maintenance below).
Scent Throw- a common term that encompasses a couple of different goals. See below.
Strength- I proportion my scent strength based on my preference of not creating an overbearing fragrance penetration. The perfect candle scent strength can be measured in my opinion by walking into the candle space and being pleasantly surprised, not instantly overwhelmed. That helps if you are sensitive to strong odors - you won't be likely to suffer headaches burning my candles. I suffer from headaches myself so I understand how important it is to be mindful when it come to scent strength.
Cold vs Hot Throw- I choose a scent load that allows the candle to emit a light scent even when it is not lit and a stronger scent when burning. That allows you to get a benefit either way!
Melt Pool- my candles are designed to create an even melt pool around the wick. That means no irregular wax build up, low burned wick carbon debris, and less chance of wax tunneling.
Maintenance- Candles have dynamic properties that can change over time and temperature. A few simple steps (e.g.wick trimming, optimal burn time) can significantly increase your candle- burning experience. Each order of Farmgirl Candles is accompanied by a Candle Care Card to help you maximize your purchase.
Recycling- All of my containers are suitable for recycling or repurposing, and in the true spirit of farm living; I strongly encourage it. Once you've burned the candle to about a half inch from the bottom of the container, simply use a butter knife to lift out any remaining wax and the wick stub. Any remaining residue can be cleaned out with hot water and a grease-lifting dish soap. If you have a wax melter, you can put the remaining wax in it a bit at a time, just like a regular wax cube.
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