Candles & Flavors — Complete Buyer’s Guide
Whether you’re just starting your candle-making journey or are a seasoned pro, this guide will help you choose the perfect wax, toppings, fragrances, and additives for your creations. Learn what each category is for, how to use it, and find tips to get professional results every time.
1. Wax — The Foundation of Every Candle
What it is: Wax is the main ingredient in candles and determines burn time, scent throw, appearance, and environmental impact.
Types we offer:
- Plant-Based Wax: 100% natural, eco-friendly, and biodegradable. Gives a smooth finish and is perfect for sustainable candle brands.
- Soy Wax: Produces a creamy, opaque finish with a clean burn. Excellent for container candles and scented candles.
- White Beeswax: Naturally scented with a subtle honey aroma, long-lasting burn, and firm texture for pillar and taper candles.
Beginner Tip: If you’re new, start with soy wax for easy melting, smooth pouring, and forgiving curing times.
Pro Tip: Blend different waxes to balance scent throw, burn time, and aesthetics.
2. Candle Toppings — Adding the Finishing Touch
What it is: Toppings are decorative items placed on top of candles to enhance visual appeal and sometimes add light fragrance.
Popular choices:
- Dried Flowers: Lavender buds, rose petals, chamomile — great for a natural, rustic look.
- Herbs: Rosemary, sage, or mint leaves for earthy aesthetics.
- Eco-Glitter: Biodegradable glitter adds sparkle without harming the environment.
Beginner Tip: Always place toppings away from the wick to avoid burning hazards.
Pro Tip: Press toppings gently into the surface just before the wax fully sets for better adhesion.
3. Fragrance — Creating an Atmosphere
What it is: Fragrances are concentrated scents designed to mix into candle wax, creating scented candles that fill a room with aroma.
Scents we offer:
- Vanilla Bean: Warm, comforting, and classic.
- Fresh Linen: Clean, airy scent perfect for bathrooms or bedrooms.
- Ocean Breeze: Refreshing and calming, with subtle aquatic notes.
- Lavender Fields: Floral and relaxing, ideal for stress relief candles.
Beginner Tip: Start with 6–10% fragrance load based on the wax weight for balanced scent throw.
Pro Tip: Heat wax to the recommended temperature before adding fragrance to ensure proper bonding and longevity.
4. Powder & Additives — Enhancing Performance
What it is: Additives improve the quality, appearance, and performance of candles, including burn stability, color vibrancy, and UV protection.
Common options:
- Candle Dye Powders: Achieve vibrant and consistent colors without affecting burn quality.
- UV Stabilizers: Protect candle colors and scents from fading in sunlight.
- Burn-Rate Control Additives: Adjust how fast or slow a candle burns for safety and longevity.
Beginner Tip: Use dye sparingly at first — you can always deepen the color later.
Pro Tip: Combine additives for multi-effect performance, like a colored candle with UV protection.