Wax Types

There are many many different waxes on the market today for candle making.   Here we will cover the most popular ones.

PARAFFIN WAXES

The traditional wax which is still the most popular today.   It is petroleum based and is a good starting point for candles as it is less expensive than the vegetable waxes and easy to both colour and scent.

There are several types and you can buy wax without additives or you can buy it with stearin already added.  To break it down further, you can also buy different kinds of the wax which will allow you to make different types of candles without adding in microcrystalline for yourself, ie

Pillar Blend - Can be used for moulded candles, ie pillars, melts, tealights, votives.

Container Blend - What it says, used for making candles in jars, glasses, tins etc.

The newer forms of waxes that are said to burn longer and cleaner than paraffin, and are suitable for vegans wanting a more natural candle.

Normally  more expensive than paraffin wax and tends to be harder to wick so often needs more testing to get it right.  Usually comes in two types with additives already added so no need to add more.

Pillar Blend - Can be used for moulded candles, ie pillars, melts, tealights, votives.

Container Blend - What it says, used for making candles in jars, glasses, tins etc.

Soy used in the UK is generally sourced from the US  and hence does not affect the Peruvian Rainforests. If in doubt where your soy is from, ask your candlemaker, or supplier.

As it is what it says, it is a gel which has the consistency of jelly so it not suitable for the votive, pillar type of candles.  It is clear and has to be heated up more than paraffin and soy so tends to be a more dangerous wax for a new candle maker.    It is beautiful though and in the right hands and with the correct procedures used for melting and pouring, it can make fantastic candles with non flammable embeds. 

Gel wax also burns for a long time and longer than most other wax types.   Wicking can prove difficult, but these make stunning candles and can be used for glazes and sauces for bakery style candles.  .

Very hard wax and a very popular one.   A lovely aroma when burned and in its natural state.  Can be bought in sheets which just need to be rolled around a wick.   

It will stick in moulds as it is a very sticky wax so generally a mould release spray or vegetable oil can be sprayed on the mould prior to pouring to help release your finished candle.

It has a long burning time, but can work out quite expensive.

Pillar Blend - Can be used for moulded candles, ie pillars, tealights, votives.