The Ultimate Guide To Candle Making Supplies (For Beginners)

So you want to make a candle? We don't blame you—candle making is the best hobby ever. 

Fun fact: candle makers are traditionally known as chandlers (noun). By the 18th century, most commercial chandlers dealt in candles, oils, soap, and even paint. 

So hi, future chandler! Before you go crazy buying every candle making knick-knack on the shelf, you'll want to check out this expert-curated candle making supply list. 

Here are the essential candle making supplies every beginner needs to get started with DIY candles at home.  

What Basic Supplies Do I Need To Make A Candle? 

Candle making is essentially a chemistry experiment. 

But the good news is that you don't need a chemistry lab to create candles in your home. 

Here's a quick overview of everything you'll need to make a candle: 

• Candle wax 
• Container or mold 
• Candle wick
• Thermometer
• Double boiler or heat-safe pitcher
• Stirring tool
• Chopsticks
• Candle wick trimmer (or scissors)
• Optional: fragrance or essential oils 

Create Your Candle Making Supply List In 5 Steps

The quality of your candles boils down to the ingredients and tools at your disposal. 

Pick your wax. 

First things first—candles are made out of wax, so you have to figure out which type of wax will work best for your candles. 

When it comes to wax, there are several options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. 

Here are three popular types of candle wax for beginners: 

Paraffin wax

Paraffin wax is known for enhancing scent throw and providing a leisurely burn. We recommend paraffin wax flakes for a safe, easy candle-making process that all ages can enjoy. 

Soy wax

This vegan-friendly wax boasts a low melting point, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free candle-making experience. While unscented, soy wax acts as the perfect canvas, allowing the aromatic dance of fragrance oils to take center stage.

Beeswax

Beeswax is a great choice if you're looking for a natural option. It is derived from sustainable honey farming practices and has a delightful natural sweet scent. Beeswax has a high melting point, resulting in candles that burn longer.

Decide on a fragrance (or not). 

You don't need fragrance, but we get it—soothing scented candle aromas are half the appeal of making your own candle. 

Opt for fragrance oils specifically designed for candle making. These oils are formulated to work well with wax and provide excellent scent throw. 

Note that not all essential oils are suitable for candle making, and they can be more expensive than fragrance oils. Additionally, achieving the desired scent strength and compatibility with wax and candle wicks can be trickier. 

Be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions before using essential oils or fragrances in your candles. 

Choose your jar or mold. 

Your wax isn't going to shape itself. Candle containers or molds are vital in candle making, providing structure and aesthetic appeal. 

Ensure the candle jars are suitable for holding heat to prevent accidents. Glass jars, tins, and ceramic containers are popular choices. If you're eco-conscious, consider repurposing items like Mason jars. 

Select your wicks. 

You've got two main options when it comes to choosing a wick: cotton or wood. 

Cotton wicks

Cotton wicks are versatile and widely used in candle making. They come in various sizes, and selecting the appropriate size depends on the diameter of your container or mold. 

Wood wicks

For a unique touch, consider using wood wicks. Wood wicks offer a crackling sound and a distinct burning experience. 

Options like wick stickers, glue dots, or high-temperature-resistant glue can secure the wick to the container or mold. 

Gather your essential supplies. 

To make the candle-making process smooth and efficient, here are some essential tools to consider:

• Thermometer - A thermometer is essential for monitoring the wax temperature. It helps determine the right time to add fragrance oils and pour the wax into containers or molds.
• Double boiler - A double boiler, also known as a bain-marie, is the recommended method for melting wax. It prevents the wax from burning or overheating. If you don't have a double boiler, you can create one by placing a heat-safe pitcher in simmering water or using a heat-safe bowl on top.
• Stirring tool - A wood or silicone spoon is ideal for stirring the wax while melting and incorporating fragrance oils. Avoid using metal utensils. 
• Wick holders - Clothespins, straws, or chopsticks can be used to hold the wicks in place while pouring the wax. These simple items make the process easier and prevent the wicks from moving or falling.
• Wick trimmer- Keep a wick trimmer handy to trim the wicks to the desired length after the candles have cooled and solidified.
• Candle dyes (optional) - If you want to color your candle, you may want to pick up candle dyes 

Is it cheaper to make your own candles? 

Making your own candles can be more cost-effective in the long run than purchasing store-bought candles. You can buy a complete Candle Making Kit here. 

How do you make homemade candles?

Here's the short version: 

1. Prepare your workspace and gather all the necessary supplies.
2. Melt the wax using a double boiler or a heat-safe pitcher in simmering water.
3. Add fragrance or essential oils to the melted wax, following recommended proportions.
4. Attach the wick to the container or mold and secure it in place.
5. Pour the melted wax into the container or mold, careful not to disturb the wick.
6. Allow the candles to cool and solidify completely.
7. Trim the wick to the desired length.

Explore more candle making tips and tricks for beginners here. 

What supplies do you need for a candle making business? 

Starting a candle business may require additional wholesale candle making supplies to meet production and packaging demands. You'll need larger quantities of wax, fragrance oils, containers, wicks, and tools. 

Other supplies for a candle business can include custom candle labels or stickers for branding, packaging materials (boxes, bags, tissue paper), and product tags or inserts. 

Get Candle Supplies Right Here 

Kalamazoo Candle Company is your one-stop shop for all the supplies you need for candle making. Our candle making kits make craft time easy and come complete with mason jars and wicks. Choose from an array of eye-catching colors and soothing scents to create your own DIY candle making kit.