Large pillar candles offer visual impact, long burn times, and endless customization opportunities, making them a favorite for both hobbyists and professional candle makers. Whether you're crafting a dramatic centerpiece or adding a new product to your line, learning how to make large pillar candles properly ensures your final result is both beautiful and functional.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from choosing the right materials to pouring techniques and troubleshooting tips — so you can create clean-burning, long-lasting extra large pillar candles with confidence.
Why Choose Large or Extra Large Pillar Candles?
Unlike smaller container candles, large pillar candles stand on their own and are often used in decorative settings like weddings, home décor arrangements, or holiday displays. Their size allows for longer burn times, greater visual impact, and more creative flexibility when working with layering, embedded elements, or advanced mold designs. For both personal projects and commercial lines, large and extra large pillar candles deliver lasting performance and aesthetic appeal.
Common Challenges When Making Large Pillar Candles
Large pillar candles can be incredibly rewarding to make, but they do come with a few unique challenges. Fortunately, most issues can be prevented with the right approach.
One common problem is tunneling, which happens when the wick is too small for the candle’s diameter. The flame burns straight down the center, leaving excess wax along the sides. To avoid this, select a properly sized wick for large-diameter pillars and test your candles to ensure they achieve a full melt pool.
Cracking and sinkholes can occur as the candle cools, especially in deeper molds. These are usually caused by uneven shrinkage. To fix this, try pouring your wax in two stages—reserving a small amount to top off the candle once it has cooled. You can also poke relief holes near the wick as the candle sets to help prevent air pockets.
If you're experiencing weak fragrance throw, the issue may lie in your wax type or fragrance load. Use a wax designed to hold higher fragrance percentages (such as a paraffin or soy blend for pillars) and follow the recommended usage rate—usually between 6–10% by weight. Stir thoroughly at the right temperature to ensure even distribution.
Mold release issues can arise when the candle sticks to the sides. A light application of mold release spray—or chilling the mold briefly after the candle cools—can help the wax contract and slide out cleanly.
Finally, uneven burning or sooting is often due to wick maintenance. Always trim the wick to about ¼ inch before each burn, and limit burn sessions to four to six hours to help maintain structural integrity and avoid carbon buildup.
With the right preparation and attention to detail, these challenges are easy to manage—and the results are well worth the effort.
What You’ll Need to Make Large Pillar Candles
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
Wax Options:
- Pillar paraffin wax
- Soy pillar blends
- Beeswax for a natural alternative
Supplies & Tools:
- Tall, heat-resistant pillar molds (aluminum, polycarbonate, or silicone)
- Mold release spray (if needed)
- Appropriately sized wick (pre-tabbed or spooled)
- Fragrance oil (optional)
- Candle dye (liquid or block)
- Pouring pitcher and thermometer
- Wick centering tool and wick bar
- Heat-safe workspace, gloves, and goggles
Choosing the right combination of materials is essential for a professional-quality finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for How to Make Large Pillar Candles
Making a large or extra large pillar candle requires more attention to detail than smaller projects. With the right technique, though, the process is straightforward and rewarding.
- Prepare Your Mold
Start by prepping your pillar mold. If needed, apply a mold release spray to prevent sticking. Thread your wick through the mold’s base and secure it tightly at the bottom with a seal. Use a wick bar or centering device across the top to keep the wick straight. - Melt the Wax
Using a double boiler or wax melter, heat your wax to the manufacturer’s recommended temperature, typically between 180–200°F depending on the wax type. Monitor the temperature carefully to avoid overheating. - Add Fragrance and Dye
Once your wax reaches the proper temperature, add fragrance oil—usually between 6–10% of your total wax weight. Stir gently to distribute evenly. If desired, add candle dye and mix thoroughly. - Pour the Wax
Pour the wax slowly into your mold to reduce the risk of air bubbles. Leave a small amount of melted wax in reserve for a second pour if the top sinks during cooling. - Cool and Refill
Allow the candle to cool undisturbed at room temperature. If a sinkhole forms near the wick, reheat your reserved wax and carefully top off the candle to create a smooth, even surface. - Unmold and Cure
Once the candle has fully set and cooled, gently remove it from the mold. Let the candle cure for at least 48–72 hours before burning or packaging to ensure the best fragrance and burn performance.
Always refer to the IFRA Fragrance Standards for safety and recommended usage levels in candles.
How Tall Should Pillar Candles Be?
Pillar candles come in a range of sizes, but most large pillar candles measure 3 to 4 inches in diameter and anywhere from 6 to 12 inches in height. Popular sizes include 3x6, 3x9, and 4x9 inches, while extra large pillar candles may reach 4x12 or more.
When deciding how tall pillar candles should be, consider where the candle will be used. Taller candles make a strong visual statement, but they also need the right wick and burn schedule to function safely and evenly. For commercial use, balance aesthetics with burn performance to create a candle that not only looks good but also performs reliably.
How to Burn a Large Pillar Candle Properly
Burning large pillar candles the right way extends their life and ensures they perform as intended. Begin with a proper first burn—allow the wax pool to reach the edge before extinguishing. This step, often referred to as setting the “memory ring,” helps prevent tunneling in future burns.
Trim the wick to about ¼ inch before each lighting to minimize smoke and carbon buildup. Keep the candle away from drafts and burn it on a heat-resistant surface. Avoid burning for more than four to six hours at a time, as excessive heat can cause structural weakening or uneven burning.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
If your candle develops a sinkhole, try pouring in two stages or poking relief holes around the wick before topping off with more wax. For hard-to-remove candles, a short stint in the refrigerator can help shrink the wax just enough for a clean release. If your scent throw is weak, consider testing different fragrance loads or switching to a wax blend with better scent retention.
Testing each new combination of mold, wick, and wax is key—especially when making larger candles. A few test burns go a long way in refining your process and ensuring consistent quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall should pillar candles be for weddings or events?
Most decorative arrangements use candles between 6 and 12 inches tall. Taller candles create visual impact but must be paired with proper burn practices.
Can I use fragrance oils in large pillar candles?
Yes, as long as your wax supports the intended fragrance load. Most pillar waxes accommodate up to 10%.
How long do extra large pillar candles burn?
A 3x9 inch pillar candle can burn for 60 to 75 hours depending on the wick and wax formulation.
How do I keep large pillar candles from tunneling?
Use the correct wick size and let the candle burn long enough on the first lighting to establish a full melt pool.