How Do Scented Candles Work?

A scented candle works through a simple interaction between wax, fragrance and heat. When the wick is lit, the flame melts a small pool of wax around it. The liquid wax travels up the wick, vaporises and burns. As the candle warms, fragrance molecules are released into the surrounding air.

Why does a candle smell stronger when it is burning?

A cold candle can give off a fragrance from the surface, often called the cold throw. When the wax melts and warms, more fragrance is released. This is why the scent in a room usually becomes more noticeable once a proper melt pool has formed.

What affects scent throw?

Scent throw is influenced by the fragrance formula, wax, wick, vessel size, room size and how the candle has been made and cured. More fragrance oil does not automatically mean a better candle: the formula has to work as a complete system.

Does wax type matter?

Yes. Different waxes melt, burn and hold fragrance differently. STANZA Artigiana uses soy-based wax in its candle making, chosen for the type of hand-poured product we create.

Why is the wick important?

The wick controls how much heat reaches the wax. If it is too small, the candle may not form an adequate melt pool. If it is too large, the candle can burn too quickly or too hot. Matching the wick to the vessel and formula is one of the practical skills behind candle making.

Can you learn to make your own scented candle?

Yes. Our candle-making workshops in London guide guests through fragrance selection, blending and pouring. No previous experience is needed, and you leave with the candle you created.

For a special central London experience, see our candle-making workshop at Cafe Jamie Oliver, Oxford Street.