Candle Making Supplies: Different Types of Wax

The supplies needed to make candles are very basic. Wax (there are several types available), a double boiler, wicks and a cooking thermometer are the essential candle making supplies. To make different types of candles, such as scented you will need more advanced candle making supplies. For novice candle makers, candle making supplies can be purchased as an all-inclusive kit at most craft stores.

Different types of wax are used for different types of candle making. Beeswax is the easiest because it does not need to be melted; it is simply rolled tightly around a wick and then sealed. This makes it an excellent wax to be used when making candles with children because no melting and high temperatures are required.

Paraffin wax, soy wax and gel wax are other types of wax used in candle making. Each type of wax is used for different purposes. Paraffin is the most common. Paraffin wax, in its pure form, is hard to work with and usually has additives that make it easier to use. At most stores paraffin that has already been mixed with the proper additives is available. To decide which type of paraffin you need for your candle making supplies you must first decide which type of candles you will be making.

For example to make votive candles you will need a special votive wax that is made so that it releases smoothly from the mold. Pillar wax is also designed to come out of molds easily; pillar wax is harder than votive wax however, so that it will keep its shape while the candle burns. The softest type of wax is container wax because it doesn’t need to hold its shape -- the container keeps everything in place.

Soy wax comes in the same three types as paraffin wax. Soy wax is a great choice for candle making supplies because it is completely natural and burns cleaner and safer than paraffin wax. Soy wax is a renewable resource that is easily grown on farms.

The third type of wax found in candle making supplies is gel wax. Gel wax is a fun addition to candle making supplies because it is transparent so words, designs, and other decorations can be embedded in the wax. The danger of gel wax is that it can burst into flames if it reaches too high a temperature. To avoid this, a candle making thermometer should always be included in candle making supplies. Candle making supplies are a fun and relatively inexpensive purchase that can provide hours of fun and great candles to boot.