Candle making allows you to create customized, aromatic candles using candle making supplies you prefer. Some must-have tools include thermometers to gauge melted wax temperature, silicone molds, sieve filters to catch debris, a spoon or ladle for pouring, and toothpicks for centered wicks. Metal tongs also help position wicks. Quality tools prevent messes and aid the process. Here are a few supplies you need to make candles at home:
Wax
The wax type determines the quality, burn time, and texture of finished candles. Soy wax and paraffin wax are beginner-friendly options. Soy wax comes from soybeans and is natural and biodegradable. It’s soft, and releases scent well. Paraffin wax is an affordable petroleum byproduct that makes long-burning candles. Blended waxes incorporate soy, paraffin, and other waxes like beeswax.
Wicks
Wicks keep the flame going as the candle burns. Matching the wick to your wax enhances melting and provides an even flame. Pre-tabbed wicks have a metal base that anchors them in the candle. Square braided cotton wicks work well for most waxes. Use larger wicks for wider candles or harder waxes. Testing different wicks prevents tunneling or weak flames.
Scent Oils
Scent oils infuse candles with fragrance. Essential oils derived from plants offer natural aromas, or you can use synthetic fragrance oils with various scent combinations. Start with a few complementary scents you enjoy. Common oils include lavender, eucalyptus, vanilla, pine, and lemon. Avoid mixing too many scents, which can muddle the overall fragrance. Add oils sparingly so the scent isn’t overpowering.
Containers
Shop for vessels that suit your candle style. Glass and metal containers are simple options. Repurpose ceramic mugs, bowls, or jars for unique recycled looks. Ascertain that the containers are able to withstand heat and have level bottoms. Wash them to remove any residue before adding wax. The containers should be slightly wider than the candle diameter.
Double Boilers
Double boilers allow gentle, even wax melting. You can buy an electric wax melter, but a makeshift double boiler works too. Place a few inches of water in a pot over low heat. Sit a second metal pot inside, holding your wax chunks. The water warms the wax, indirectly preventing burning. Always watch the melting wax to avoid overflow or fires.
Colors
Add colored wax layers in stylish stripes or swirls. Candle dye comes in many vivid liquid and powder colors. Add the drops to melted wax and stir well before pouring. Start with a base wax layer, let it harden, then alternate coloring and pour more layers. To create a swirl effect, stir two colors together before pouring. Experiment with color blocking for more artistic candles.
Additives
Extra candle making supplies like herbs, flowers, or glitter further personalize candles. Just verify the additives are nonflammable. Use ground flowers, coffee beans, or spices for texture. Dried flower buds or petals add natural pops of color and fun scents. Finely crushed seashells, citrus peels, or healing crystals suit certain themes. Reputable apothecary shops often carry a wide range of additives for candle making projects.
Measuring Tools
Follow recipes with precise wax and fragrance oil measurements for successful results. Weigh wax chunks with a scale before melting them to avoid guesswork. Overfilling jars risks wax spillover when lit. Too little wax produces smaller candles. Measure oils in teaspoons or grams for the intended scent strength. Accuracy prevents wasted supplies and subpar candles.
Buy Candle Making Supplies Today
With quality waxes, scents, wicks, and tools on hand, you can use your imagination to craft custom candles. Start by getting the right candle making supplies as you learn about different techniques. You can experiment with unique ingredient blends, textures, shapes, and designs. Start making your customized candles today.
