There are two kinds of dye used in candles: pigment and oil soluble dyes.
1/ Pigment dyes are made of very fine powder which disperses in molten wax and gives a light fast colour - but they do not burn well - as the particles clog the wick. They are best used for overdip candles, where the colour is on the surface; or for very low addition rates, such as pastel shades.
2/ Oil soluble dyes do not inhibit burning (except in extreme concentrations), but they are liable to fade and to 'travel'.
Pink blue and purple are the most susceptible to fading. To minimise fading - keep out of sunlight or direct strong light.
Travel is when the dye migrates to adjoining areas of the candle - or even to the surface that it stands on! Yellow, orange and strong pink are the main liabilities here.
It is always best to place a candle on a dish, stand or candle holder.
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copyright © Brian Steere March 2001 to
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