Candle Care
Section 1: The First Burn (The Most Important Rule)
The first time you light your candle is the most critical.
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The Goal: Create a "full melt pool."
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The Instruction: Allow the candle to burn until the wax melts all the way to the edges of the Mason jar. This usually takes 2–3 hours.
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Why: Wax has "memory." If you blow it out too early, it will "tunnel" down the center, wasting the wax on the sides.
Section 2: Wood Wick Maintenance
Wood wicks provide a beautiful crackle, but they need to stay short to stay lit.
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Trim it: Always trim your wick to 1/8" before every single light.
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The Method: You can use a wick trimmer or simply pinch off the charred black bits with your fingers once the wax is completely cool.
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Troubleshooting: If the flame is too high or smoking, the wick is too long. If it won't stay lit, you likely need to trim away the burnt wood to reach "fresh" wood.
Section 3: Safety & Environment
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Surface: Always place your candle on a heat-resistant surface (like a coaster or tray). Mason jars can get very warm.
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Drafts: Keep candles away from open windows, fans, or air ducts. Drafts cause uneven burning and smoking.
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The End: Stop burning your candle when about 1/2 inch of wax remains. Burning it past this point can cause the glass to overheat.
Section 4: Repurposing Your Mason Jar
Reinforce your sustainability mission here.
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Freeze it: Place the finished candle in the freezer for an hour. The remaining wax will pop right out.
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Wash it: Use warm, soapy water to remove any residue.
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Reuse it: Your Southern Whispers jars are perfect for holding matches, bathroom essentials, or small plants.