Candles have been used for centuries as a source of light, warmth, and relaxation. They come in all shapes, sizes, and scents and can be made from a variety of materials. One of the most popular materials for candle-making is wax. But with so many different types of wax available, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of wax and help you decide what wax is best for candle-making.
Learn different types of wax
- Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is the most commonly used wax for candle-making. It is made from petroleum and is a byproduct of the oil-refining process. Paraffin wax is easy to work with, has a low melting point, and comes in a variety of grades, from fully refined to semi-refined. It is also the most affordable wax option.
However, paraffin wax is not without its drawbacks. It is not a renewable resource and emits potentially harmful chemicals when burned, such as benzene and toluene. It also has a tendency to crack and may require the addition of additives to improve its performance.
Popular paraffin wax for candle-making
- Soy Wax
Soy wax is a natural wax made from soybeans. It is a renewable resource and biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly option for candle-making. Soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin wax, which means it burns cooler and longer. It also has a cleaner burn, with less soot and smoke.
Soy wax is more expensive than paraffin wax, but it is worth the extra cost if you are concerned about the environment and want a high-quality, clean-burning candle.
Popular soy wax brands in the market
Some popular soy wax brands in the market include Golden Brands 464, American Soy Organics, and Candlemaker’s Natural Soy Wax.
Golden Brands 464 is a great choice for container candles with a good scent throw.
American Soy Organics is a good choice for those who want a more eco-friendly option, and it has a low melting point for a good scent throw.
- Beeswax
Beeswax is another natural wax option for candle-making. It is made by bees and has a warm, honey-like scent. Beeswax is a renewable resource and has a long burn time. It also emits negative ions when burned, which can help purify the air.
Popular options for high-quality beeswax for candle-making
Some popular options for high-quality beeswax for candle-making include:
White Beeswax Pellets by Sky Organics:
This beeswax is 100% pure, organic, and unbleached, making it a great option for eco-conscious candlemakers.
Yellow Beeswax Blocks by The Stakitch:
This beeswax is sourced from ethical and sustainable beekeepers and is available in a variety of sizes.
Beeswax Pastilles by Better Shea Butter:
This beeswax is 100% pure, cosmetic grade, and comes in easy-to-use pastilles that melt quickly and evenly.
Beeswax is the most expensive wax option, but it is worth the cost if you want a natural, clean-burning candle with a unique scent.
- Palm Wax
Palm wax is a natural wax made from the oil palm tree. It is a renewable and biodegradable resource. Palm wax has a unique crystalline structure that creates a beautiful, natural-looking finish on candles. It also has a long burn time and a clean burn.
However, palm wax is controversial because of the environmental impact of palm oil production. Palm oil plantations are often responsible for deforestation and the destruction of wildlife habitats. If you choose to use palm wax, look for sustainably sourced options.
This palm wax can be used to make many types of candles, including pillars, votives, tapers, and tealights. It can be heated to 180 °F (82 °C). You may choose any fragrance for your candle or leave it unscented. The best ratio for scents and colorants are
- Add 0.5 – 1 oz of scents per 1 lb of palm wax
- Add a colorant and up to 0.5 oz of any fragrance or essential oil
- Coconut wax
Coconut wax is a natural wax that is made from the meat of coconuts and is a renewable resource. Coconut wax has a creamy texture and a slightly sweet scent, which makes it a great option for creating scented candles. It also has a long burn time and a clean burn, similar to soy wax.
One of the benefits of using coconut wax is that it has a lower melting point than other waxes, which means it burns cooler and longer. It also has a great scent throw, which means that the fragrance will fill a room quickly and effectively.
Another benefit of coconut wax is that it is eco-friendly. Coconut trees are abundant and sustainable, and the wax is biodegradable, making it a great choice for those who are concerned about the environment.
In terms of cost, coconut wax is more expensive than paraffin wax but is similar in price to other natural waxes, such as soy and beeswax.
Overall, coconut wax is a great option for candle-making, especially for those who want a natural and eco-friendly option with a pleasant scent and a long burn time.
Popular natural coconut wax brands for candle-making
Some popular natural coconut wax brands for candle-making include Fleur de Spa and Generic. It’s important to note that different brands may have slightly different properties, so it’s best to test the wax before making a large batch of candles.
What wax is best for candle-making?
In conclusion, the choice of wax for candle-making depends on individual preferences and priorities. While each wax type has its pros and cons, the top contenders are coconut wax, paraffin wax, soy wax, beeswax, and palm wax.
In conclusion, the best wax for candle-making depends on your priorities. If you are looking for an affordable and easy-to-work-with option, paraffin wax is a good choice. If you want an eco-friendly option with a clean burn, soy wax is the way to go. If you want a natural, unique scent, beeswax is a great option. And if you want a beautiful, crystalline finish on your candles, palm wax may be the best choice, as long as it is sustainably sourced. depends on what factors are most important to you. If you prioritize eco-friendliness, naturalness, and a pleasant scent, then coconut wax may be your best bet. Coconut wax is a great choice for scented candles.