Selecting the Proper Sustaining Base

These days, a great deal of effort goes into selecting the proper sustainer base when making container candles and votives. We define container candles to include tins, ceramic pieces and any candle which is self-contained. In the industry, there are seven standard types of sustainer bases used. While the standards within these seven can change slightly, they are always defined by the width of the sustainer base and the height of its neck. (The neck is the piece in the middle of the sustainer base where the wick is inserted and crimped onto.)

15 x 3 mm — is a sustainer base which is about the size of a dime and has a neck height of 3 mm. This sustainer base is generally used in tea lights and small unscented votives.
15 x 6 mm — is the same as above except the neck on this sustainer base is 6 mm high. This base is very popular to use in votives and small diameter containers for paraffin wax candles. It is used with gels but we would recommend a sustainer base with a 9 mm neck.
15 x 9 mm — is the same sustainer base as above except the neck is 9 mm high. This sustainer base is very popular for use with gels and paraffin candles.
20 x 3 mm — is a sustainer base about the size of a nickel with a neck height of 3 mm. This sustainer base is used extensively in votives and containers.
20 x 6 mm — is the same as above except the neck is 6 mm high. It is used in paraffin candle containers and gel candles. We would recommend the 9 mm neck for gel candles.
20 x 9 mm — is the same base as above except the neck is 9mm high. This base is very popular for gel candles.
33 x 3 mm — is new to the marketplace and is great for votives. The diameter of this sustainer base ensures the wick will be centered in the bottom of the cup.