Candle Double Pour Temperature Calculator
Calculate optimal first and second pour temperatures for double-pour candle making to prevent sinkholes and ensure smooth tops.
Why double-pour candles:
When candle wax cools, it contracts and pulls away from the wick, forming sinkholes and cavities beneath the surface. A double pour fills these voids with a second layer of wax, producing a smooth, professional-looking candle with consistent burn performance.
Temperature guidelines by wax type:
The key principle: the first pour is at the standard pour temperature for adhesion and scent throw. The second pour is done at a lower temperature to avoid melting through the first layer while still bonding properly.
| Wax Type | Melt Point | First Pour | Second Pour | Wait Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soy (464) | 51°C (124°F) | 57–63°C (135–145°F) | 54–57°C (130–135°F) | 2–4 hours |
| Soy (444) | 56°C (133°F) | 63–68°C (145–155°F) | 57–60°C (135–140°F) | 2–4 hours |
| Paraffin (IGI 4630) | 57°C (135°F) | 77–82°C (170–180°F) | 71–74°C (160–165°F) | 3–5 hours |
| Parasoy blend | 54°C (130°F) | 66–71°C (150–160°F) | 60–63°C (140–145°F) | 2–4 hours |
| Beeswax | 62°C (144°F) | 71–77°C (160–170°F) | 66–68°C (150–155°F) | 3–5 hours |
| Coconut wax | 38°C (100°F) | 49–54°C (120–130°F) | 43–46°C (110–115°F) | 1–3 hours |
Second pour temperature formula:
Second pour temp = Wax melt point + (3 to 6°C)
This is just above the melt point — warm enough to bond but cool enough not to re-melt the first pour deeply.
Example calculation (Soy 464):
- Melt point: 51°C
- First pour: 60°C (good adhesion, optimal fragrance binding)
- Wait until surface is solid and slightly concave (about 2–3 hours)
- Poke relief holes around the wick with a chopstick
- Second pour: 54°C (fills voids without disturbing first layer)
Important timing rules:
The first pour must cool until a solid skin forms on top (at least 5 mm thick). If you pour too early, the second pour melts through and creates new sinkholes. If you wait too long, the bond between layers weakens and may delaminate.
Room temperature matters:
Pour in a room at 20–24°C (68–75°F). Cold rooms cause rapid cooling and worse sinkholes. Hot rooms slow curing but give smoother surfaces. Never pour near drafts or air conditioning vents.