My candle making supplies list for beginners
Does making candles at home feel like an impossible task? With hundreds of wicks, wax and containers... where do you start?
If you're looking for a clean and quick way to dip your toes into making candles at home, you've come to the right place! In this post we will review the basic equipment you will need, what they do, and some equipment options for different budgets. You can learn to make candles with very little equipment and a positive attitude if you are creative.
lets start!
Overview of basic equipment for making candles
The equipment is the items in the candle. Before you go crazy and buy everything off the shelf, take the time to understand the basics. This will save you money and stress if you are just starting out.
wax
Every candle needs wax. Melt it, add a few things and then pour it into a container or mold around a wick.
The most popular and easy to find waxes are paraffin wax and soy wax. Each of them comes with unique features, but both are excellent choices for your first candle. You can even mix them to combine their benefits. I don't like to use paraffin wax for health and environmental reasons , but I can completely understand the choice of this wax. If you want to learn about each of the waxes and how to mix them, I invite you to my candle workshop
What about making candles that are not inside a vessel (standing candles), you will need strong wax. Choose paraffin or the natural equivalent beeswax.
fuses
Finding the right wick for your candle seems easy in theory, but turns out to be the most complex task of the entire process.
Fuses are classified in two ways: type and size.
The type of fuse refers to its manufacturing method. There are many types of wicks, each with different properties that make them better for certain types of wax and less so for others. Some examples of fuse types include CD, ECO, Wood, LX and HTP.
The size of the wick is based on the diameter of the candle you are making.
You will also need a way to connect the fuse to the tank. Vendors usually sell "wick stickers" that work great, but you can also use hot glue or high temperature glue.
Fragrant oils or essential oils
Interesting fact: scented oil is the most expensive component of a candle.
Most of the candles are scented candles. They don't have to be, but one of the fun things about making candles is adding a scent that reflects your personal taste.
In general, candles contain 5% - 10% scented oil . Heat the wax to a certain temperature before adding the scented oil and mixing it into the mixture.
I like to work with a company from the USA, although the shipping time is long, but it is really worth all the waiting time:
Containers
You can use any type of heat-resistant container for your candles, such as glass jars, tins or ceramic containers.
I recommend nurseries, a great source for interesting and large tools or a list like Boom, Max Stock, you won't believe how many bargains you can find there
If you want to make candles without a container, you will need a mold. Molds are usually sold in the same places as the containers. I really like to buy on AliExpress, much cheaper than in Israel.
Color
Adding color to the candles can create a more vivid color. You can add paint chips or liquid paint to the melted wax.
Everything needed is usually available at a local store. Places like Oval or Xiananda usually have a dedicated area for candle making equipment, even if it's pretty generic. The best place to buy supplies is a dedicated candle making supply center if you're lucky and there's one near you (google it and make a few calls to verify).
Not interested in a trip to the store? Prefer to purchase remotely? Buy your gear from any number of online retailers. Some of them include:
Candlescience
Lone Star Candle Supply
Aztec Candle & Soap Supplies
Candlewick
Rustic Escentuals
Pro Candle Supply
The Flaming Candle
Candles & Supplies
Bulk Apothecary
A review of candle making equipment
Equipment refers to the tools you use to make the candle. Here is an overview of some of the most basic ones that most candle makers have in their studio.
fire extinguisher
It should go without saying, but if you create and burn flammable items and use a heat source to do so, you need a fire extinguisher. Safety first!
A tool for melting wax
One of the simplest ways to make candles is to boil water in a large pot, place the pot in the water and melt the wax in it.
Thermometer
A thermometer is used to monitor the temperature of the wax. It is important to heat the wax to the correct temperature for optimal combustion and scent distribution.
mixing tool
You can use a wooden or silicone spoon to mix the wax and the scented oil.
clips or fuse rods
When the wax is melted and mixed with the scent and color, the next step is to pour it into your containers (container or mold in this case).
different budgets
Where do you start? You have a few options.
Simple equipment: candle making kit
I made a starter kit for you in my store that contains everything you need to get started and then recommend upgrading with the file links I made for you (such as a pot from England with a thermostat)
Medium budget: 250-340 NIS depending on the size of the kit you choose
To choose the right kit for you, click here
This option leaves you with equipment that looks more correct without breaking the bank. You will have a good set of equipment to follow the process and then experiment or even make extras for gifts or for sale.
For those who want to buy everything from Israel right from the start, such as a pot from England, smells from the USA and more, go to the file of links I prepared for you and just choose your suppliers.
To go to the file click here
Just start!
Candle making is a fun and rewarding hobby that anyone can do in the comfort of their own home. With the right equipment and a little patience, you can create beautiful and fragrant candles that you can enjoy or give to others as gifts. Don't let the initial cost of the equipment deter you from trying something new. Start small, gradually increase your equipment and enjoy it!
