Basic Candle Wax Reading: Get Answers From the Universe

Have a question? The universe has answers! Check in with your higher guidance with our easy process for reading candle wax.

Updated July 16, 2024
A red candle melting in a bowl

Did you know you can light a candle, let it burn, and then interpret how the wax has melted to receive answers to your questions? Candle wax reading is an easy way to tune into your intuition and receive intuitive information from the universe.

How to Perform a Basic Candle Wax Reading

You don't need much to perform a candle wax reading. You'll need a candle, matches, a holder, and a safe place for the wax to melt.

Need to Know

Never leave a burning candle unsupervised. 

  1. Choose a colored candle using the chart below, depending on what question you might have. It can be either a taper or a pillar (but not a candle in a jar). 
  2. Come up with a question and either write it down or speak it aloud. Light the candle.
  3. Let the candle burn all the way down until the flame goes out.
  4. Read the results.
What You Want to Read Candle Color
Soul information White
Shadow work Black
Sex, passion Red
Love, romance Pink
Spiritual messages, spirit guides Purple
Communication Blue
Money, prosperity, health Green
Life force energy, joy

Orange

Self-esteem, ego Yellow

Related: How to Interpret Candle Flame Meanings for Rituals & Spells

How to Read Candle Wax After a Candle Spell

Now, you're ready to read your results. It's a good idea to record any impressions by writing them down as you go.

Need to Know

Your intuition is the most important part of any type of divination, including candle wax reading. Pay attention to anything that might pop into your mind, no matter how quickly it comes and goes. Write every impression down without censoring yourself. 

Observe the Wax

The first thing to do is to simply look at the wax and write down any impressions that pop into your mind as you focus on the question you asked. 

Notice Any Obvious Shapes

Do you see any obvious shapes in the melt? Is something shaped like a heart, a circle, or something else? What do those things mean to you? Write that down, and then use this table to interpret any shapes that could appear.

Shape Meaning
Circle Full circle, a cycle
Triangle Creativity, good fortune
Square/Rectangle Stability
Heart Love
Birds or wings Luck
Crescent Prosperity
Numbers Weeks or months until whatever you're asking is answered
Letters Initials of the name of someone who will play a key role

Meanings of How the Wax Has Melted

Once you've recorded your initial impressions, observe the way the wax has melted to get more information. Record your impressions as you go.

Clean-Burning Candle Wax

Burning Candle

Did your candle burn all the way down with no wax left behind? This is fairly rare, but it indicates success in what you are asking about. 

Clockwise Flow

Clockwise candle wax from a candle on Christmas morning

You are currently attracting what you asked about to you. 

Counterclockwise Flow

If it's moving in the opposite direction, it means what you are seeking is moving away from you. 

Meaning of Cascade Flow of Candle Wax Layers

Cascade flow of candle wax

If the candle wax cascades down the candle in a flow that overlaps like a step-down or waterfall appearance, you can read the wax as an indicator of change. Change is on the way. 

Backflow

There are several ways to interpret the backflow of candle wax. A backflow is created when the melted wax begins to form a shape, but the wax flows away as though changing its mind. The wax leaves a unique hollow shape that resembles a shallow pool that has been drained of the wax. When you see a backflow form, it indicates a reversal of circumstances or events. A few examples include:

  • Someone has broken their promise or commitment.
  • It might indicate that an agreed business deal won't go through.
  • If it's a personal commitment like an engagement, the reading indicates the person won't follow through.
  • If it's a legal appeal, it indicates the new ruling will undo the previous one.

Curling Wax

Red Burning Candle

Sometimes, a candle will burn in such a way that one side of the candle falls over and curls onto itself. This often looks like a petal on a flower or an ocean wave. This means someone or something will bend over backward to help you with your question or request.

Interpreting a Candle Wax Flood

Melted Candle On Floor

A candle wax flood can be characterized as something that's out of control. Something is currently beyond your control, and it's affecting your reading. 

Partial Burn

Illuminated Candle In Darkroom

If part of the candle remains after the flame extinguishes, it means that there's unfinished business related to your question that will need to be resolved. 

Learn How to Perform a Candle Wax Reading

You can learn how to perform a candle wax reading once you understand the process. The meanings of melted candle wax patterns can help you tap into your psychic and intuitive self.

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Basic Candle Wax Reading: Get Answers From the Universe