DIY Wicks - Matching Flame Color to Candle Color

Candle wicks should always be of 100% cotton. Try to get a flat braid - it curls back as it burns, consuming itself. And you don't want cotton that has been dyed, or bleached, and especially none that has wire in it.

Before you prime a wick - that is before you dip it in wax prior to the making of your candle, the wick should be treated in a flame resistant solution - this prevents it from being destroyed by the flame and your candle burning out. 

This process is known as mordanting.  Typically you dissolve about a tablespoon of salt, and a teaspoon of borax, in about a cup of warm water, and let your wick soak overnight. You must then let it dry completely, and then you prime it in wax.

Here are some additional chemicals that you can use in the mordanting process to alter the color of the flame, to match the color of your candle:

• A tsp of calcium burns reddish orange.
• A tsp of table salt brings a yellow flame.
• A tsp of Borax has a yellowish-green appearance.
• Add a teaspoon of potassium sulfate or saltpeter (potassium nitrate) for a purple flame.
• A tsp of Epsom salts burns white.
• A tsp of alum burns green.