Making Crackled Candles

A very unique looking candle is one which has a cracked effect. Similar to mottling, it is where the surface of the candle has been changed in complexion. Making this candle can be easy and frustrating at the same time. Making a candle that can achieve the cracked appearance requires the proper wax and timing of placing the candle in the refrigerator. Due to the refining process, not all waxes will “crack” consistently from batch to batch.

Simply take any pillar candle you are making and pour under normal conditions. During the cooling process take the entire mold and place it in the freezer. The ideal time to do this will vary depending on the size of the mold and the wax being used. At a minimum the wax should be totally set up on top of the mold and the mold is warm to a touch. Placing the candle in the freezer too early will cause the candle to “physically” crack, which is undesirable.

The correct process takes time to learn but the finished candle will be intriguing. We have found that two of Candlewic waxes, 3035 H and the 4045 H to be good for this application.