FAQ

We get it...you have some questions, and we have answers! If you didn't find the answer to your question below, just contact us and we'll get right back to you! 

 

What is soy wax?

Soy wax is a vegetable wax made from the oil of soybeans. 

 

How is soy wax made?

After harvesting, the beans are cleaned, cracked, de-hulled, and rolled into flakes. The oil is then extracted from the flakes and hydrogenated. The hydrogenation process converts some of the fatty acids in the oil from unsaturated to saturated...creating wax!

 

What are the benefits of soy wax over paraffin wax?

The majority of candles on the market contain Paraffin wax -- a petroleum by-product that may contaminate the air with petrol-carbon soot. This is why we choose to use 100% soy wax, a vegetable-based wax made from the oil of American-grown soy beans, which does not pollute the air. An additional benefit to soy wax is that it is a renewable, plant-based resource, unlike petroleum products. Unlike beeswax candles, soy wax is vegan-friendly! 

 

What are essential oils and why does Slow North use them?

Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts of the natural, aromatic oils in plants. We chose to only use essential oils to make our scented candles because they are a natural, renewable resource. Fragrance oils are manufactured from undisclosed chemicals in a laboratory and may contribute to indoor air pollution. Yuck!

 

How are essential oils made?

Essential oils may be extracted from many parts of the plant, including the leaves, seeds, rinds, and roots. The oils are extracted using one of several methods, depending on the part of the plant being used. Steam distillation and expression, also called “cold pressing,” are the two most common methods used today.

 

What type of wicks are used in your candles?

We use eco-friendly wicks made from only cotton and paper, primed with vegetable-based wax. 

 

What are the ideal burning conditions to extend the life of my candle? 

When burning your candle, you will want to let the melt pool form across the entire candle surface before extinguishing it. This prevents your candle from tunneling, since all soy wax candles have a "memory" and the next time you light the candle, it will only burn as wide as the time before. This can result in tunneling and drowning of your wick. We recommend burning your candle for a maximum of 3-4 hours at a time (less for smaller candles), as the longer you leave it lit the quicker all of your wax will melt and evaporate away. We also always recommend burning your candle away from drafts or wind. 

 

Why isn't my candle uniform in appearance?

Soy wax is a tricky medium to work with and many factors may affect the appearance of the wax, such as seasonal variations in the soybean harvest, essential oils used, ambient air temperature while pouring, etc. Even within the same batch, some candles may look perfect, while others may exhibit rough tops, or not adhere perfectly to the glass. However, the good news is that all of these issues are purely cosmetic, and will not affect the safety or burn time of our candles. They are the unique beauty of handmade goods! 

 

After the candle has been used up, can I reuse the container?

Yes! We encourage the reuse of our containers. Simply soak in hot water until the remaining wax has melted, discard the wax and wick, and wipe clean. Rubbing alcohol and a paper towel may be used to get the container squeaky clean!

 

Can Slow North refill my container with another candle?

Unfortunately at this time, we are not able to refill our containers. However, we are looking into the feasibility of this recycling practice for the future. 

 

I burned my candle but I am not satisfied. Can I exchange it or get a refund? 

We want you to love your candle! Please contact us with your concerns, and we will be happy to make it right for you.

 

Are your therapy packs scented?

No. You can spray a linen spray or use a few drops of essential oil to scent as desired. Slow North Neck Wraps and Eye Masks are handmade and packaged among goods containing essential oils and dried herbs in our Austin, Texas studio. 

 

Do your migraine masks have a strap?

No, they do not include a strap.

 

I don't have a microwave oven. Can I heat therapy packs in a regular oven?

Therapy packs can be placed in the oven on a baking sheet at the lowest heat setting. Flip your neck wrap or eye mask on each side in 5 minute increments until warm.

 

Are there workshops where I can learn how to make my own candle?

Yes, we are hosting candle making workshops at our brick + mortar location in Austin (almost) every weekend. We also offer lots of different workshops - like linocut printing, jewelry making, and herbalism, among many other things!

 

Do you offer private candle workshops?

Definitely! To request a private workshop for a group of 6-10, click here - or click here if your group is larger than 10.

 

I'm interested in hosting a workshop at Slow North. How do I apply?

We are currently scheduling workshops for Summer 2023. Fill out this form or contact us directly if you have any questions!

 

I'd like to be a vendor at your next Maker's Market. How do I apply?

Read through and fill out this form!

  

What are the hours for your brick and mortar location? 

Our shop is open 11:00am - 6:00pm every day of the week.

 

Do you have curbside pickup?

Yes, we offer curbside pickup during shop hours. Orders are usually fulfilled the same day, but wait for an email confirming the order is ready. The order will be held for a week. You can order online or over the phone at (512) 766-8611.

 

Do you offer local delivery?

We do not, but Getcho, a local delivery company, has generously offered our customers 1 free delivery for first time users of their service. You can schedule an order by using this link, or by going through their website. 

 

Do you ship internationally? 

Slow North ships orders to all 50 states in the United States, U.S Territories, and Canada. Shipping methods and fees will be indicated at check-out. We are not responsible for import duty charges that may incur at customs.

 

I'd like to request a Gift-In-Kind from your organization for our Silent Auction. Do you offer that?

Yes! Please complete our online Donation Request Form, and we'll get back with you if we are able to participate! 

 

Where can I find answers to my questions about your Monthly Candle Club Subscription? 

We have a whole FAQ page set up with answers here.

 

Where can I find information about using Afterpay?

Please visit our Afterpay FAQ page here.

 

Do you offer Gift Certificates online?

Yes! You can now send a gift card directly to your recipient here.