Wick
How to choose a candle wick size?
Wick size follows the container's inner diameter. Around size 12 is common for narrow containers and around size 16 for 6–8 cm diameters; the final result is the burn test.
Size = thickness, not weight
In cotton thread wicks, the size (12, 14, 16...) expresses thickness. The candle's grams or the mold pattern are not a measure. First measure the inner diameter of the finished candle. Because soy is oily, a firmer wick by one step than for paraffin at the same diameter may be needed.
Starting match
A practical band commonly used in the industry: around size 12 for about 2–4 cm diameter; around size 16 for 6–8 cm. Consider thin/medium for 5–7 cm, and thick or a double wick for 7–10 cm. For wooden wicks, the model and holder diameter are chosen separately. This table is not a recipe lock, it is a first trial point.
Burn test
If there is tunneling, go one size thicker or use a double wick; if there is soot and a long flame, go one size thinner and trim 5 mm. When the fragrance load changes, the same diameter may want a different size. Choose a size/model from the Rufus cotton and wooden wick categories and center it with a holder.
Wick size: first trial band
| Inner diameter (approx.) | Cotton wick band | Check |
|---|---|---|
| 2–4 cm | Around size 12 | Thin flame, no tunneling |
| 5–7 cm | Thin / medium (14–16) | The pool should reach the edge |
| 6–8 cm | Around size 16 | Watch the glass temperature |
| 8–10 cm+ | Thick or double wick | Equal spacing, burn test |
FAQs
Which container does a size 16 wick suit?
Generally it is the first trial for containers with a 6–8 cm inner diameter. With soy and a high fragrance load, one step of adjustment may be needed.
Do wooden wicks have a size?
Wooden wicks are sold by model and millimeter dimensions (e.g. width × height). Do not confuse them with the cotton wick size; match the dimensions on the product page to the container diameter.
Choose Materials From Stock
You can order the product groups in this guide by quantity from the Rufus Concept catalog.