Burning our pillar candles 1 1/2 hours for every inch in diameter each time the candle is burned will provide the best results and fragrance release. (4 inch diameter = 6+ hours burn)

Flame too high? Extinguish flame, trim wick.
Flame too low? Extinguish flame, pour out melted pool of wax.

If candle appears ready to drip, extinguish flame and allow to cool 30 minutes before relighting.

Gauley River Rustics "All day candles" have diameters of 3 1/2 inches or more.

Our "Evening candles" or candles for short burning times have a 3 inch diameter.

Candle safety: Always place candle in a fireproof holder in a draft free area. Keep wick trimmed to 1/4 inch at all times for proper burning. Never leave a burning candle unattended. Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets. Burn candles away from ceiling fans. Keep flame away from decorations. Keep wax pool free of debris and ornamentation. Always use caution when burning candles. Discontinue use when wicking reaches 2 inches above the base of the candle.

Tips for burning: When lighting a Gauley River Rustics fine handcrafted candle the first time, allow the melted pool of wax to reach within 1/4 inch from the outer edge of the candle before extinguishing. This first burn establishes a "memory." The waxpool will remember to melt as far as the original melted pool of wax, and not beyond it. This process may take several hours, depending of the diameter of pillar candle being burned. As the wax pool continues to melt during following burnings, press the remaining wax "shell" toward the flame for an even burning candle. For a "glo thru" or hurricane candle, leave the wax shell and insert a tea light when wax pool reaches desired depth. The shell of a hurricane candle helps protect the flame in drafty areas.

The following information is from the National Candle Association:

Helpful Hints:

• Store candles in a cool, dark and dry place. Taper or dinner candles should be stored flat to prevent warping.

• You can remove dust or fingerprints from a candle by gently rubbing the surface with a nylon stocking, or a damp or dry soft cloth.

• Candles may fade if left in bright light for an extended period of time. Avoid placing candles where they may be exposed to harsh outdoor light or indoor spotlights.

Commonly Asked Questions:

Should I be concerned about candle soot? All candles produce minuscule amounts of soot (carbon), due to incomplete combusion. This is similar to the soot given off by toasters and cooking oils used in the kitchen. These everyday household sources of soot are not considered a health concern.

Is one type of wax better than another? No. All types of candle waxes perform well and burn safely when they are of high quality and properly formulated.

Do scented candles produce excess smoke? No. Although scented candles may contain more oils than unscented ones, a well-made scented candle should not smoke. Wicks that are too long and flickering flames are the primary causes of smoking, so trim wicks before burning and always keep candles away from drafts and vents.