How to fix a sinkhole in a candle

A sinkhole occurs in a candle when bubbles become trapped in the wax as the candle cools, forming a pocket of air usually near the wick. This can cause some burning issues in the candle but the good news is that it's an easy fix! A heat gun will typically fix smaller holes but for a particularly deep pocket, I like to do a quick second pour of wax.
#candlescience #candlemaking #diycandles #howto #wax #diycraftideas #diycrafts #scentedcandles

[@elainefernandez27]

This was so helpful I just made my first candle today and this happened thank you ❤

[@candlescience]

I'm so glad it was helpful!

[@Lina_elena_1919]

I made my first candle today😊😊and the same happened 🤦‍♀️and i fix the same as in the video ❤i had sowed before a couple of days❤thank you

[@kimutzman3352]

I prefer doing a 2nd pour as well. I find that if I use the heat gun, depending upon the size of the crater, it sometimes doesn't fix the problem on the first try and I have to try again.

[@candlescience]

Very true! If the sinkhole goes deep enough, the heat gun may not be enough to form an even, smooth top. A second pour is usually the safest bet, especially with paraffin wax!

[@sarahboan8756]

It has to be hotter than normal to fix it or no?

[@bergen78535]

How do you avoid sinkholes on the first pour?

[@candlescience]

If you are working with paraffin wax or a paraffin blend, the wax may shrink a bit more than some other waxes and a second pour would be the best way to fill in the candle then.
You could also try testing a few different temperatures on the first pour as an even, controlled cooling rate can improve the look of the candle. Sometimes pouring into warm jars can help as well.
Stirring and pouring the wax slowly can also be a big help in avoiding sinkholes. The less air trapped in the wax as it cools, the fewer issues you should see on the first pour. If there are a lot of bubbles in the wax, you can try tapping the jars to release them before the wax cools so they do not get stuck and form those sinkholes.

[@TheStitchWitchPodcast]

I don't really get sinkholes, but I do getting micro bubbles near or around my wick. when I use heat guns, sometimes the trapped micro bubbles don't go away. should I be using a lower temp or something?

[@candlescience]

You could try stirring and pouring slowly if you don't already but what helps me is sometimes tapping the jars down after you pour and this can release some of the trapped air!

[@Badgalwyn]

@@candlescience How can you fix a sinkhole for a jelly/gel-like candles? Please let me know thanks :)

[@MsReignSeattle]

How long after your first pour do you do the second and do you do the 2nd pour at the first temp pour? I'm getting sinkholew in every candle I make

[@GymBodyMuscles]

But this will show layers

[@candlescience]

A second pour in un-dyed paraffin candles usually provides a seamless finish, especially when the wax is poured hot. Pouring paraffin wax too cool though can show "jump rings" or lines.

[@lakevalowe4268]

So what temp do we pour?

[@I_love_basil_abuse]

All I know is your house definitely smells good

[@Bethmarie3]

Ty!! Quick and to the point! Was just the info I needed 🦩

[@candlescience]

Always happy to help!