Black smoke from your candle is usually due to an overly long wick. When the wick is too long, it disrupts the balance of heat and fuel, causing excess soot and smoke. Keep your cotton wick trimmed to 1/4" and your wooden wick just a bit longer. If you notice black residue on the jar, it's carbon buildup from a lack of oxygen. To clean, let the jar cool and wipe it with a damp cloth.

No, do not burn a candle if the glass is cracked. Even with thorough checks, small fractures can occur in repurposed liquor bottles. Always burn your candle within sight on a fire-safe surface to avoid any risks.

A memory burn is the initial burn of your candle, lasting two to four hours until the entire top layer is melted. This ensures even burning for future use, maximizing the candle's lifespan.