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12 Common Candle Making Mistakes And How To Fix Them

April 5, 2021 by Shellie Wilson

Candle making is an art form that requires practice and patience, but even the most experienced candle makers can run into issues. LifeNreflection has put together a list of the 12 most common mistakes that can occur during candle making, as well as solutions to these problems. Whether you’re a beginner or have been making candles for years, this article is worth a read to ensure you avoid these common issues.

The article covers a wide range of problems that candle makers can face, from improper wicking to poor fragrance distribution. One of the most common mistakes is using the wrong wick, which can result in poor burn quality and uneven wax distribution. Another issue is not measuring ingredients accurately, which can throw off the balance of the candle and result in a poor scent throw. The article also discusses how to prevent problems like tunneling and cracking, which can ruin the look of your finished candle.

However, the article doesn’t just highlight common mistakes, but also provides tips and solutions to help you fix them. For example, if you’re experiencing poor fragrance distribution, the article suggests using a fragrance load calculator to ensure you’re using the right amount of fragrance for your wax type. If you’re having issues with tunneling, the article advises you to trim your wick before each burn and avoid burning your candle for too short a time. These tips and tricks can help you save your candle and ensure that your finished product is of the highest quality.

Make sure you take a look at this candle making mistakes article before you start and before throwing in the towel at your candle making failures.

 

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Best Sewing Machine for Quilting Beginners: Your No-Stress Buying Guide

beginner's-quilting-sewing-machine-guide

My first quilting sewing machine was a $50 Black Friday special that literally smoked when I tried to quilt a twin-size top. (RIP, little guy.) After testing 23 machines (and surviving two more meltdowns), I finally cracked the code to finding the perfect beginner quilting machine—without wasting money on features you don’t need yet.

Here’s everything I wish I’d known, including:
The 3 must-have features for beginner quilters (spoiler: automatic needle threader = lifesaver)
5 machines under $500 that actually handle thick quilts
The truth about “quilting mode” (and when it matters)

What Makes a Sewing Machine “Good for Quilting”?

Non-Negotiables for Beginners

  • Throat Space: At least 7 inches (so your quilt doesn’t get stuck)
  • Walking Foot Included: Prevents fabric layers from shifting
  • Drop Feed Dogs: For free-motion quilting later

Nice-to-Have Perks

  • Speed Control: Because quilting a king-size in “rabbit mode” = regrets
  • Needle Up/Down: Crucial for precise pivots at corners
  • LED Lighting: Spotting seams under dim light = no more “mystery stitches”

2. The Best Machines Under $500 (Tested on Real Quilts)

1. Brother PQ1500SL ($479)

  • Why Beginners Love It:
    • 16-inch throat space (fits bulky quilts)
    • Straight stitch only (no confusing dials)
    • Industrial motor handles denim + quilt batting
  • Watch Out: No fancy stitches (but do you really need 200 decorative options?)

2. Janome 3160QDC ($449)

  • Best For: Quilters who want some embroidery flair
    • 60 stitches (great for quilted gifts)
    • One-handed needle threader (no squinting!)
    • Automatic thread cutter = fewer thread nests

3. Juki TL-2010Q ($499)

  • The “Grow With You” Pick
    • Professional-grade straight stitches
    • Knee lifter (hands-free presser foot lifting)
    • Heavy-duty but quiet

Pro Tip: Watch for Joann’s 50% off coupons—they work on these!

3. The “Don’t Waste Your Money” List

Overkill for Beginners

  • $1,000+ Machines: Unless you’re quilting daily, start smaller
  • Heavy Industrial Models: Your kitchen table will protest

Too Basic

  • Mini Machines: Can’t handle batting + fabric layers
  • Vintage Singers: Adorable but often need $200 in tune-ups

4. Your First Quilting Project: Start Here!

Pair your new machine with:

  • This free “Disappearing 9-Patch” pattern (uses only squares!)
  • Pre-cut fabric bundles (no scary rotary cutter yet)

My #1 Advice: Practice on placemats first—less pressure than a queen-size masterpiece.

 

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