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21) How do you prevent shrinkage around the candlewick?

Shrinkage around the candlewick occurs as the candle is hardening, and as it goes from the hot liquid state, it becomes a solid, the wax shrinks, usually in the center around the candlewick.

To eliminate this shrinkage and sinking in the center of the candle, you should pour the wax into your container or candle mold in two separate stages. The first pour needs to be filled a little more than halfway, and then you can take the time to straighten your candlewick and hold it in place using a pencil or other long object that will lie across the top of your candleholder, and allow you to wrap the top of the wick around it to keep it centered. Wait awhile and give the wax time to start to set up, as it hardens it will form a thick layer across the top. Poke holes around the wick, almost down to the very bottom of the container.

Melt the rest of your candle wax and when it has reached the appropriate temperature for your wax type, pour it into the holes you’ve created, and above the top layer of the first pouring of wax, so that it fills the candleholder to the top. The holes will fill in with the second pouring of wax, and it will reduce shrinkage.