Candle-making is an intricate process and requires different elements. On top of that, there are variations of each supply. The perfect combination of all the elements is a must to make the best candles.
Therefore, I have compiled a detailed guide and a complete list of candle-making supplies with different variants.
Whether candle-making is your hobby or you want to start your candle business, this guide has everything for you.
Table of Contents
What Supplies Do I Need For Candle Making?
Here is the list of complete candle supplies you’ll need to get started with candle-making:
Wax
Wax is an essential element in the candle-making process. There are different variations of candle wax- soy, beeswax, coconut, paraffin, etc.
Soy, beeswax, and coconut wax are eco-friendly wax types, and their soot is not harmful. Paraffin wax is made from petroleum. Even though it’s an economical option, it’s not sustainable.
Paraffin wax is generally the standard pick among candle manufacturers because it provides longer burn quality, is easier to mix with scents and colors, and has a very high melting point.
Wicks
Next, you’ll need wicks to make candles. Wick is also the most crucial element in candles. It decides the burn quality of candles by supplying the wax to the flame.
Like wax, there are also different types of wicks- cotton, metal, and wood wicks. Cotton wicks are best for beginners. They are easier to work with, burn consistently, and are durable.
Wooden wicks are pretty new to the market. There are two types of wooden wicks- softwood and hardwood. Wooden wicks make a crackling sound while they burn, creating an aesthetic vibe.
Metal wicks, too, are a good option once you get the hang of using cotton ones. Tin or zinc are the top choices for metal-cored wicks because they are eco-friendly and don’t emit harmful pollutants.
Wick Holders
Wick holders secure or strengthen your wick when you pour wax and when the wax settles in. There are metal and wooden wick holders. Both are equally good, so it’s up to the users which one they prefer.
Wick holders make your job easier, prevent candle mess, and save time.
Melter/ Boiler
Next, you’ll need melting jars or boilers. There are also different ways of melting the wax. There are electric wax melters. Electric melters come with adjustable temperature ranges to melt different wax types.
Alternatively, you’ll find pitchers or jars to melt the wax. Or you could use a double boiler or the oven for the same purpose.
Fragrance Oils
Fragrance oils are next in line for candle supplies if you want to make scented candles. There are essential oils and fragrance oils. Essential oils are extracted from natural substances with very few artificial ingredients.
And fragrance oils are made in the lab by mixing natural and aromatic chemicals. Essential oils are healthier and better than fragrance oils because they don’t emit harmful soot.
Colors
To make colored candles, you’ll need a candle dye. Candle dyes are readily available online and in any craft store. After melting the wax, you need to add the dye and mix it thoroughly for the best results.
Some also prefer adding dry flowers, leaves, and cinnamon sticks for an aesthetic appeal in their candles.
Jar/ Molds
After melting and mixing colors and fragrance in the wax, you’ll pour it into candle molds or jars. There are tin or glass jars of different shapes and sizes. Additionally, there are silicone molds as well.
Silicone molds come in different designs to make interestingly shaped candles.
Thermometer
Melting and pouring wax at the right temperature can make or break the deal. Hence, a thermometer will come in handy to ensure you’re melting the wax at the right temperature.
Other Supplies
In addition to the essential supplies I mentioned above, there are other things you’ll need while making candles. Things like- glue dots, hot guns, scissors, gloves, newspapers, paper towels, rubbing alcohol, etc.
There are multiple candle supply companies; hence choosing the right one might seem confusing. Below, I have listed the best supplies for each category to ease your confusion.
My list includes items for beginner, advanced, and professional candle crafters so that everyone finds an option. Check them out below:
List Of Best Candle-Making Supplies For Every Candle Crafter
Best Wax
While buying wax, you must consider candle size, scented or unscented, melting point, and pouring temperature. Based on that, here are my top picks-
Top 3 Soy Wax Brands
1. Beginner-friendly: Natural Soy 444 Wax
New candle makers would find it easier to use the Natural Soy 444 wax. It’s a high-quality wax comes in flakes, making it easier to melt.
Flakes are easier to work with because they create less mess than wax blocks. They also have a high melting point of 185 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent the wax from solidifying while pouring. The wax also does not create lumps that can be pretty irritating.
Natural Soy 444 wax also works best with all fragrances and has a high fragrance load. Plus, you can make beautiful colorful candles with it as well.
Pros
- Decent melting and pouring temperature
- Produces less soot
- Easier to work with
Cons
- It does not retain color for long
Check the Natural Soy 444 Wax’s latest prices on Amazon
2. Best For Advanced Candle Makers- The Candlemaker’s Store Natural Soy Wax
My top pick for experienced crafters looking for a better quality soy wax is this one from the Candlemaker’s Store Natural Soy wax.
Pure soy wax does not have a proper fragrance load. We need soy wax blended with some natural additives to resolve the issue. The Candlemaker’s store soy wax has 2% natural soy wax additives that improve the burn quality and has a high fragrance load of 15%.
Further, with 120 to 125 melting points, this is one of the best soy waxes for pro-candle-makers.
Pros
- High fragrance load
- Can be mixed with soy wax 415
- Great melting temperature
Cons
- Creating a smooth surface is a bit difficult with it
Check the Candlemaker’s Store Natural Soy Wax’s latest prices on Amazon
3. Best For Professionals: Bluewood Candle Co. Luxury Candle-Making Kit
Having a complete kit for professional use is crucial. It saves not only money but also your time. The Bluewood Candle Co. Luxury candle making has everything you need to make the best soy wax candles.
The package includes 100% natural soy wax, free from any toxic elements, and burns clean. Other essential candle-making things like- melting pitchers, candle jars, thermometers, wicks, wick holders, colors, fragrance oils, and dried flowers are all there in the kit, which professionals would find helpful.
Pros
- Pure, eco-friendly soy wax
- Budget-friendly candle-making kit
- The wax has a high fragrance load
Cons
- The wax melting point could have been better
Check the Bluewood Candle Co.’s latest prices on Amazon
Top 3 Coconut Wax Brands
1. Best Beginner-friendly- American Soy Organics Coconut Wax
The American Soy Organics Coconut wax is one of the best coconut wax for beginners. The wax comes in beads, which are super easy to melt and work with.
It’s a microwavable coconut wax, which is excellent for candle-makers who dislike the double boiling process. Moreover, mixing coconut wax with fragrance and colors is easier for those who want to make colorful and fragrant candles.
This coconut wax has a melting point of 160 degrees Fahrenheit; therefore, you won’t face issues like candle solidifying.
Pros
- Melts easily
- Works well with candle dyes and fragrances
- The high melting point makes pouring hassle-free
Cons
- It needs to be blended with soy wax for firmness
Check the American Soy Organics Coconut Wax’s latest prices on Amazon
2. Best For Advanced Candle Makers- Scandinavian Candle Co.Store Coconut Soy Wax For Candle-Making
My next top coconut wax pick for advanced candle makers is this one from Scandinavian Candle Co.Store. This vegan wax has a smooth, creamy texture, making it easier to work with.
Further, the coconut wax comes with the right soy wax blend for proper firmness. With a 12% fragrance load, making delicious-smelling candles will be easier. Further, the high melting point prevents any error and wax wastage.
Pros
- Longer burn time
- High fragrance load
- Melts quickly
Cons
- Challenging to make colored candles
Check the Scandinavian Candle Co.’s latest prices on Amazon
3. Best For Professionals- Direct Candle Supply Coconut Soy Wax Blend
For professional use, there is nothing better than the Direct CandleSupply coconut soy wax blend. The blend of soy and coconut provides the perfect firmness, saving you the cost of buying soy wax separately.
Further, it saves the time of melting two separate waxes and finding the right mixing proportion, which boosts your productivity.
The wax melts super quick and has a high fragrance load that is best for making scented candles. But keep stirring it continuously to prevent lumps.
Pros
- High pouring temperature ensures no candle clouding
- Vegan and eco-friendly
- Easier to work with fragrances
Cons
- Like most coconut wax, the color payoff isn’t good
Check the Direct Candle Supply Coconut Soy Wax Blend on Amazon
Top 3 Paraffin Wax
1. Best Beginner-Friendly: Blended Wax Inc. Paraffin Wax
Beginners would find using the Blended Wax Inc. Paraffin wax super easy. It has a smooth texture that melts without any fuss.
It’s a colorless and odorless wax; hence making colored and fragrant candles with it won’t be difficult. Plus, it has high melting and pouring temperatures; hence you can expect a clean result.
This FDA-approved wax provides a clean burning, so you’ll not face the issue of smoke. The B&W paraffin wax has a very high fragrance load that instantly fills your space with your favorite aroma.
Pros
- High melting temperature provides a smooth finish.
- Works great with all types of fragrances and colors
- Melts quickly
Cons
- The pouring temperature could have been better
Check the Blended Wax Inc. Paraffin Wax’s latest prices on Amazon
2. Best For Advanced Candle Makers: Paraffin Wax Solid Paraffin Wax Bars
Paraffin wax solid wax is one of the popular picks among candle lovers. The wax comes in bar form, which is very convenient, especially for making candles.
This paraffin wax has a high melting point of 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which ensures no candle clouding or solidifying.
The wax is naturally fragrance-free, so it will be easier to make scented candles. This one also has a high pouring point, so pouring your wax from the pot into the candle tin won’t create any issues.
Pros
- Melts easily
- High melting and pouring point for the best results
- Best for making scented candles
Cons
- Not best for making colored candles.
Check the Paraffin Wax Solid Paraffin Wax Bars’ latest prices on Amazon
3. Best For Professionals: Alexes Paraffin Wax
The Alexes paraffin wax is my top pick for professional use because it is easy to work with.
The Alexes paraffin wax is high-quality paraffin using which you can make all types of candles. This is unscented paraffin with a melting temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Mixing any color and fragrance is a cakewalk with this. Professionals would love using the wax because it melts supers quickly, which helps boost productivity.
Pros
- It has a great color and fragrance pickup
- High melting point to prevent candle frosting
- Burns clean
Cons
- Quantity isn’t satisfactory
Check the Alexes Paraffin Wax’s latest prices on Amazon
Top 3 Wicks
Wicks are the second most essential thing you need to make the best candles. It won’t be wrong if I say wicks are the heart & soul of a candle. If you don’t use the appropriate wick, it will cause candle tunneling, create more soot, and ruin the overall quality of the candles.
Based on that, here are some of my recommendations for the best wicks-
1. Best Beginner-Friendly: EricX Light Cotton Candle Wicks
For beginners, cotton wicks are best to start with. The EricX cotton wicks are premium quality cotton and have no zinc, lead, or other metals.
They provide the best burn quality without creating much soot. But the burn quality and soot depend a lot on the fragrance oil. Hence, be careful with the fragrance quantity to avoid excessive soot.
Pros
- Made from pure cotton strings
- Easier to use
- Contains no metal
Cons
- Not appropriate for all candle sizes
Check the EricX Light Cotton Candle Wicks’ latest prices on Amazon
2. Best For Advanced Candle Makers: Phinicco Store Wicks Kit
Advanced candle makers looking for a different wick style would love this Phinicco Store Wicks kit. Wooden wicks create an aesthetic vibe and enhance the look of your candles.
The Phinnico Store wicks kit is made from high-quality wood burns evenly and creates a crackling sound. Moreover, these wicks don’t emit any black smoke, keeping your space free from harmful substances.
These wicks work best with any wax and any wax tin or container. Moreover, these wicks are made from 100% pure wood that is chemical free and non-toxic.
This wick kit has metal holders to secure the wick and glue dots. Please note that you have to soak the wicks for 5 to 10 minutes in wax before using them. If you skip this step, the wicks will quickly disappear from the candle.
Pros
- Organic and pure wood without any toxic substance
- It provides a clean and even burns
- The kit includes metal holders and glue sticks
Cons
- Newbies will find it a bit difficult to use
Check the Phinicco Store Wicks Kit’s latest prices on Amazon
3. Best For Professional Use: DINGPAI Candle Wick Kit
My top choice for wicks for candle crafters is the DINGPAI candle wick kit. Professionals prefer cotton wicks more than metal or wooden ones because they are easier to work with and give an instant boost to the business.
The DINGPAI wick kit contains 100% natural cotton wicks for a toxin-free, clean burn. And the wicks come coated in soy wax that aids in the wax supply to the flame. These cotton wicks are suitable for all wax types like- beeswax, coconut wax, palm, paraffin, and soy wax.
Other things you get in the kit are wick-securing devices and glue dots, saving you additional costs. These wicks are 1mm thick and are best for medium to large-sized candles.
Pros
- Long burn time
- Easier to work with
- Suitable for all wax types
Cons
- Burn time could have been longer
Check the DINGPAI Candle Wick Kit’s latest prices on Amazon
Top 3 Wick Holders
Wick holders secure the wick while you pour the wax, and it settles down. Wick holders come in different materials, each with its own benefits. Based on my experience, the three best wick holders for candle makers of all stages are the following:
1. Best For Beginners: DINGPAI Metal Candle Wick Holders
Newbies would find using the DINGPAI metal wicks super easy. Beginners need sturdy wicks that will last a long time to avoid repurchasing.
These DINGPAI ones are made from high-quality metal that won’t break easily while serving its purpose. Using them is also super simple. All you have to do is pass the wick through the little hole, and it will keep it still.
Pros
- Made from durable, strong metal
- Suitable for most candle jars
- The brand provides a money-back guarantee
Cons
- The quantity could have been better
Check the DINGPAI Metal Candle Wick Holders’ latest prices on Amazon
2. Best For Advanced Candle Makers: MILIVIXAY Wooden Candle Wick Holders
My next best pick for wick holders is this one from MILIVIXAY. These are wooden wick holders that secure your wicks without spoiling your candles.
These wick holders are made from high-quality material and will last for the longest time. Plus, they are compatible with all candle tins/ jars like- teacups, glass jars, tin jars, mugs, and more.
Using them is also super easy, saving you lots of time to focus on increasing productivity.
Pros
- Made from high-quality and eco-friendly material
- Easier to use
- Very affordable
Cons
- Cleaning these wick holders is not easy
Check the MILIVIXAY Wooden Candle Wick Holders’ latest prices on Amazon
3. Best For Professionals: RAPUDA Candle Wick Holders
Professionals looking for wick holders that are easy and convenient to use must go for the RAPUDA ones. These metal wick-securing devices clamp the wax wick to keep them in place.
All you have to do is open the wick holder, pass the wick through it, and clamp it. There is no waste of time trying to adjust the position. Once you secure the wicks tightly, they won’t move at all.
These metal wicks centering tools are made from durable, high-quality metal that will last you the longest time. You can also use them with candle jars of all shapes and sizes.
Pros
- Very easy to use
- Durable metal
- Perfect for all candle jars
Cons
- It may not be best for wooden wicks
Check the RAPUDA Candle Wick Holders’ latest prices on Amazon
Top 3 Wax Melters Or Boilers
Wax melters are another essential equipment candle makers should have. Most people start with a double boiler in their initial days. While the double boiler provides the desired result, it’s time-consuming, requires constant monitoring, and risks accidents.
Therefore, getting an electric wax melter is best if candle-making is your profession. The following are some of the best models I love, and I’m sure you’ll love them too.
1. Best For Beginners: SNNPLAPLA 10QTS Wax Melter For Candle-Making
New candle makers should look for an electric wax melter with a large capacity and robust build quality, just like the SNNPLAPLA wax melter.
It has a 10-liter capacity which is more than enough for anyone just starting their candle business. The inner tank is made from premium-quality stainless steel that will melt the wax quickly without ruining it.
Other features like the pouring spout, light indicators, and temperature control make wax melting even more convenient. Further, the electric melter is suitable for melting all wax types.
Pros
- Temperature control
- Indicators to show melting status
- Suitable for all wax types
Cons
- The spout sometimes gets clogged
Check the SNNPLAPLA 10QTS’ latest prices on Amazon
2. Best For Advanced Candle Makers: Health & Harbor Electric Wax Melter For Candle-Making
The Health & Harbor electric wax melter is my top pick for experienced crafters who want to get a fancy wax melter.
It has many advanced features like a smart LED display to view melting status, temperature, and more. Additionally, the touch control buttons help with precise temperature adjustments, and the fast heating melts wax instantly.
The inner pot has a nonstick coating, so cleaning it is no longer a mess. And there is a delay start program as well, using which you can program the machine to start 30 minutes to 24 hours in advance.
Pros
- Different heating features for solid and canned wax
- Smart LED display and touch control buttons
- Nonstick inner pot for easy cleaning
Cons
- It does not have a pouring spout
Check the Health & Harbor Electric Wax Melter’s latest prices on Amazon
3. Best For Professionals: Nighthawk Craft Supply Wax Melter For Candle-Making
The Nighthawk Craft Supply wax melter is a popular pick among candle makers. This is a budget-friendly wax melter with user-friendly features.
With a 16lbs capacity, a nonstick inner pot, and a fast melting feature, it will boost your productivity so that you can take more orders. Also, it has an auto-closing stainless steel wax pouring valve, preventing wax wastage.
The wax pouring spout is removable, which assists in easy cleaning. Further, the temperature control feature lets you melt all wax types with precision.
Pros
- Durable body
- Fast heating to melt wax quickly
- Auto-closing and stainless steel wax pouring valve
Cons
- No LED display and needs constant monitoring
Check the Nighthawk Craft Supply Wax Melter’s latest prices on Amazon
Best Fragrance Oils
Choosing the best fragrance oils is essential to get the best outcome. Not all fragrance oils perform the best; some don’t have the best fragrance load, some may create black flames, and others may not mix well with the wax.
After lots of trial and error, the following are my top three fragrant oil picks for candle-making-
1. Best For Beginners: Eternal Essence Premium Fragrance Oils: Coconut Cream & Tahitian Vanilla
Newbies should go for the Eternal Essence Premium fragrance oils while they are still getting used to using fragrance oils.
This set has two scents- Tahitian vanilla and coconut cream with an intense fragrance load. These high-quality oils not only smell divine but also do not create any black soot.
Also, oil spillage will no longer be an issue as both bottles have droppers for precise dropping. The soot also depends on the oil quantity; hence, don’t add beyond recommended.
Pros
- Great fragrance load
- Luxury scents
- These oils can also be used in diffusers, skin care products, air fresheners, etc.
Cons
- Glass bottles are not very durable
Check the Eternal Essence Premium Fragrance Oils’ latest prices on Amazon
2. Best For Advanced Candle Makers: Barnhouse Blue Premium Grade Fragrance Oils
Experienced crafters will love using the Barnhouse Blue Premium Grade fragrance oils. The set has six different fragrance oils to let you make different fragrant candles.
You can use the scented oils separately or mix them to make customized fragrances. These premium quality oils have a very high fragrant oil to let you make lux candles but on a budget.
Pros
- Calming and relaxing scents
- Great scents with high fragrance load
- Droppers for accurate dropping
Cons
- Bottles are not adequately sealed
Check the Barnhouse Blue Premium Grade Fragrance Oils on Amazon
3. Best For Professionals: P&J Trading Store Set Of 6 Premium Grade Fragrance Oils
The P&J Trading Store has a set of different relaxed-smelling, lux, and long-lasting fragrances. The pack includes- freesia, jasmine, rose, lilac, gardenia, and violet.
The fragrances are all-natural; hence they won’t emit harmful soot, keeping your space free from harmful toxins. All the bottles come with a euro dispenser for precise dropping and preventing oil slippage.
Pros
- Highly concentrated scents
- It can also be used for bath & body care, diffusers, room fresheners, etc.
- Natural scented oils
Cons
- Fragrances do not last for long
Check the P&J Trading Store Set Of 6 Premium Grade Fragrance Oils on Amazon
I have mentioned the three best items of critical candle supplies. Apart from these, there are other essential things like candle dyes, molds, thermometers, scissors, hot guns, glue dots, mixing spatula, etc.
You can look for a complete candle supply kit where you get all essential supplies. It makes candle-making easier and saves money as well.
Candle Making Supplies FAQs
Is It Cheaper To Buy Candles Or Make Them?
Making your candles at home is way cheaper than buying them. High-end brands charge a lot for scented candles. The supplies you need to make similar fragrant candles are cheaper, so you’ll save some bucks.
Is Candle Making Profitable?
Yes, candle-making is a profitable business. People have been using candles for aromatherapy or to create a positive vibe in their space for years. There is an ever-increasing demand for candles in the market. And the raw materials do not cost much, making candles a profitable business.
How Many Candles Does A Pound Of Wax Make?
You can make two 14oz candles with a pound of wax.
How Long Do Candles Need To Set?
Paraffin wax candles need 24 to 48 hours to set. But soy wax candles sometimes need up to a week to set.
Final Thoughts
That was everything you needed to know about candle-making supplies. I hope this guide helped with the entire list to get you started. I have also shared a quick candle-making guide with easy-to-follow steps; check it out.
Drop your queries in the comments, and I’ll answer them at the earliest.
