• Paraffin is the classic wax for candle making. Paraffin comes in different grades and melting points. Candle-grade paraffin is available from candle making suppliers and craft stores.
• Gel melts much more slowly than paraffin, therefore a double boiler cannot be used. This makes it necessary to heat it over direct heat, and it is very important to never leave gel wax unattended while it is being heated. Gel is available premade, and may also be made by the candle maker. Three densities of gel wax are available: low density (LD), medium density (MD), and high density (HD). Each density has its advantages and disadvantages, but high density is recommended as it holds more fragrance and retains its shape better that other densities.
• Soy is a very clean burning wax and produces very little soot. It is available as pure soy and in a blend with other oils and waxes. Soy wax is non-toxic and burns longer than most other waxes. It comes in a variety of melt points for different candle requirements.
• Beeswax is the cleanest- and longest-burning of all candle waxes. It is much more expensive than paraffin, but can be blended with paraffin to produce a higher quality candle that paraffin alone would produce.

Wicks
Wicks vary in size, shape and content. Wick selection is based on the size and type of candle that you will be making. Braided cotton wick is the most common wicking used in candle making. Cored wicks contain a core of either zinc or paper, and are used when a straight, rigid wick is desired. The wick supplier can help you with your selection if you are unsure of which wick you should use.

• Note: Lead wicks are no longer produced in the United States.

Dyes
An endless array of colors is available for the candle maker in the form of dyes. Dyes are available in block, chip, or liquid form. Many new candle makers first invest in primary color dyes (red, blue, yellow), and experiment with mixing these colors to make other colors as well.

Wax Additives
Additives are used to improve the color and wax consistency of candles. Stearic acid, or stearin, and vybar are the most commonly used additives. Stearic acid accentuates dye colors, improves the wax's burning quality. Vybar makes the wax creamier, and also improves the burning quality.

• Stearic acid. Stearic acid causes wax to harden at lower temperatures than it would normally.
• Vybar. Vybar cause waxes with high melt point, and imparts a creamy texture to the wax, reduces air bubbles, and improves the strength of the fragrance.

Scents
Fragrance Oils are available for a variety of applications. Those fragrance oils specifically made for candle making should only be used. It must be pure oil, not containing any other ingredients such as water or alcohol.

Essential Oils are derived from plants and flowers. Such oils are highly concentrated and are more costly than fragrance oils. Some must be handled carefully since they may have medicinal qualities. Make sure you know what you are using and how to use it before incorporating essential oils into your candle making venture.


Mold Seal or Plug
Mold seal is used to hold wicks in place so that wax doesn't escape through the hole at the bottom of the mold. Mold plugs may be used instead and are generally easier to use.


Candle Molds
Molds come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. Metal molds are the most durable, but unfortunately are also the most expensive. Plastic molds are less expensive, but fragrances cannot be used, and wax cannot be used over 180F. A variety of household items may also be used.


Containers
Glass and metal containers are popular for candles.


Heat Gun/Blow Torch
These items are used to correct surface irregularities and to preheat metal molds to keep the wax as warm as possible. They can also be used to remove bubbles in gel candles.


Wicking Needles
A long, thin metal poker used to make wick holes in candles.


Water Bath
A Container of cool water to place your hot mold in to help the candle cool and harden.