Here at the Willis Candle Shop, we’re not just pouring wax and calling it a day—we’re crafting candles with care and intention, using clean-burning, phthalate-free, paraben-free, and non-toxic ingredients. Our process highlights natural wax characteristics, embracing the beauty of artisanal craftsmanship without shortcuts or unnecessary additives.
We start by pouring our coconut-soy wax blend into vessels, giving the candles a steady 24-hour rest at 72° to 73°F to help them settle smoothly. Then, they cure for 9 days at a fluctuating temperature between 65° and 75°F. This curing phase bonds the wax, fragrance oils, and color dyes (if added), setting the stage for a clean, even burn and a rich scent throw. It’s also when natural quirks, like frosting and cold spots, can appear.
Frosting—a light, crystalline pattern on the surface—is common in colored candles and occurs when triglycerides in the wax naturally separate. While our white wax option hides it beneath the surface, colored candles may display unique frosted patterns that vary by batch. Occasionally, frosting even results from soy wax residue on the wick melting and settling during curing. And no, a heat gun won’t erase it—it’ll just shift it around.
So, when you see that light frosting, consider it proof of our all-natural production process and the handmade touch you didn’t know you needed.
Cold spots, on the other hand, are small areas of uneven wax adhesion that occur in clear glass vessels as the wax pulls slightly away from the sides during curing or temperature changes. They can be temporarily “fixed” with a heat gun or freezer trick, but they’ll likely return when room conditions shift. To avoid seeing them altogether, consider choosing a frosted, tinted, or opaque vessel where the spots stay hidden. While this won’t eliminate frosting, it can create a cleaner appearance overall.
Why don’t we “fix” these imperfections with unnecessary additives? Because we won’t compromise. These additives would smooth things out but at the expense of quality and authenticity. Instead, we embrace the unique personality of every candle while ensuring that all our ingredients are safe for you and the environment. While we do use high-quality synthetic fragrance oils and dyes, they’re carefully chosen to be non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals.
On Day 11, we trim the wicks, smooth any surface imperfections with a heat gun, and give the candles one last cooling session before placing the lids on and storing them in our inventory. From there, they’re ready to bring warmth, fragrance, and charm into your home.
So, if you want a clean, minimalist look, the white wax or a tinted vessel might be your best option. But if you’re someone who appreciates the beauty of artisanal quirks, embrace the frosting, cold spots, and natural variations that make every Willis Candle Shop creation one of a kind.
