If you make a purchase through the links on our site, we may earn a commission from our affiliate partners. To learn more about this, click here.
Candlemaking is not only a great hobby but also a potentially profitable business. As the holiday season approaches, candle making has become increasingly popular because of its unique and affordable nature. However, successful candle makers rely on certain tools and supplies to create their products. In this article, we will highlight the best places to purchase candle-making supplies for your business.
The Candle Market in 2022
Starting a candle-making business is easy and cost-effective because the necessary supplies are affordable. The candle market has experienced steady growth as more people seek fragranced and unscented candles to create a cozy ambiance in their homes. Additionally, candles have become increasingly popular as gifts during the holiday season, contributing to market expansion.
Top Places to Purchase Candle Making Supplies for Your Business
Depending on your preference, you can find candle-making supplies in physical stores or online. Craft stores are a convenient option as they offer a wide range of supplies in one place, including soap supplies, candle-making supplies, and more.
1. Amazon
If you are looking for affordable prices and fast shipping options, Amazon is an excellent choice. You can find all the necessary candle-making supplies, such as molds, fragrance oils, wax, jars, and more, to create unique products.
2. Etsy
Etsy is known for offering great deals on candle-making supplies, including unique molds and scents. This platform is ideal if you want to explore new fragrances and containers for your candles.
3. Candlewic
Candlewic is a one-stop-shop for both soap supplies and candle supplies. They offer a wide range of products, including waxes, molds, wicks, fragrance oils, and other essentials for candle making. With their extensive selection of scents and products, you can create high-quality candles and soaps.
4. Direct Candle Supply
Direct Candle Supply specializes in providing essential candle-making supplies such as candle wicks, fragrance oils, kits, and containers to make the candle-pouring process easier. You can conveniently order directly from their website and choose from a variety of items.
5. Candles and Supplies
Candles and Supplies is an online store known for its reputation of offering quality candle supplies at reasonable prices. They offer multiple shipping options for items in your cart, and you can create an account to easily reorder items for consistency.
6. Makesy
Makesy is specifically designed for candle makers, offering a wide range of options to stock up your supplies. You can order basic candle-making supplies, explore new scent options, and create new products. Makesy also offers fast shipping options and is dedicated to providing customers with high-quality supplies.
7. Bulk Apothecary
Bulk Apothecary is a slightly different option compared to the others on this list. They offer wholesale candle supplies, with a wide variety of options available on their website. With reasonable prices and shipping times, Bulk Apothecary is a reputable company that provides useful supplies such as fragrances, wax, molds, and more.
For even more great deals on candle-making supplies, click here.
Essential Candle Supplies
Having the right supplies is crucial for creating high-quality candles for your customers. Here are some of the most important candle supplies to consider:
Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is the most commonly used material for candle-making. It is popular due to its easy availability and affordable cost. Candles made from paraffin wax have a smooth appearance, hold scent and color well. However, there are concerns regarding the health and environmental effects of burning paraffin.
Soy Wax
Soy wax is a renewable and biodegradable alternative to paraffin. Candles made from soy wax have longer burning times and produce less soot. They are also considered more environmentally friendly since soybeans are a sustainable resource.
Beeswax
Beeswax is one of the oldest materials used for candle-making and is sourced naturally from honeybee hives. Beeswax candles burn longer and cleaner than paraffin candles, releasing a naturally sweet aroma and purifying the air.
Palm Wax
Palm wax is a natural and renewable source commonly used for candle-making. Candles made from palm wax have a unique crystalline structure, providing a beautiful appearance. It burns cleanly, has a firm texture, and holds fragrance well. However, it is essential to choose sustainably sourced palm wax to minimize environmental impact.
Gel Wax
Gel wax is not technically a wax, but a clear, jelly-like substance made from mineral oil and polymer resin. It is perfect for creating decorative candles and has a longer burning time. However, it may not hold fragrance as strongly as other waxes.
Coconut Wax
Coconut wax is a relatively new option in the candle-making world, derived from hydrogenated coconut oil. It offers a clean burn, excellent fragrance retention, and a creamy appearance. Coconut wax is considered more environmentally friendly since it comes from a renewable source.
Tallow
Tallow, which is rendered animal fat, was historically used for candle-making before modern waxes were available. Tallow candles tend to produce more soot and have a distinct odor when burned. While they may be less appealing to modern users, they offer a traditional, rustic feel and are still used for historical reenactments or specific cultural practices.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are natural oils extracted from plants, used to introduce natural fragrances into candles. Popular choices include lavender, eucalyptus, lemon, peppermint, and rosemary. The choice of essential oil can impact both the scent and ambiance of the candle.
Fragrance Oils
Unlike essential oils, fragrance oils are synthetically made to mimic specific scents. They offer a wider variety of aromas, including those not naturally found in essential oils. Fragrance oils are versatile and can be blended to create complex scents, making them popular in commercial candle-making.
Dyes and Pigments
Dyes and pigments are used to add color to candles. Dyes dissolve in the wax, creating transparent hues, while pigments provide opaque colors. The choice between dyes and pigments depends on the desired visual effect. It is important to use dyes and pigments specifically designed for candle-making to ensure color stability and safety when burning.
Wicks
The wick is a crucial component of any candle. Typically made from braided cotton, the size and type of wick should be chosen based on the candle’s diameter and type. Wood wicks are also available, producing a crackling sound when burned, creating a unique ambiance.
Wick Tabs
Wick tabs are small metal pieces attached to the bottom of wicks to prevent the candle from burning down too far and becoming a fire hazard.
Molds
Molds determine the shape of the candle and come in various designs and sizes.