To ensure an even burn, light the wooden wick across the candle and allow it to burn until the wax melts out to the edges of the container. This may take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. This will create an even “melt pool” which will optimize each subsequent burn..
Never burn a candle for more than 4 hours at a time and carefully clip your wick using wick trimmers, nail trimmers or something with a similar blade after each use to 1/4" (basically, get rid of the black bits) for optimal burn and to reduce soot.
Keep candle away from drafts, children and pets and ensure it is placed on a heat safe, secure surface to burn.
Never leave a burning candle unattended.
Once your candle has burned to 1/2" from the bottom of the jar, you can melt the remaining wax in very hot water and wipe the jar clean and either recycle it or reuse it.