What's Needed to Make Candles
When it comes to candle making there are a lot of different tools and materials that are needed, however, these are relatively simple and affordable. Before we go over what the candle will be made out of I want to suggest getting your first set of supplies from one supplier to keep the learning process simple. Here are the tools you will need to make a candle.
A Food Scale that measures in grams is best for accurately measuring out the ingredients for your candle.
A Melting Pot for melting your wax and a separate cooking pot to hold water for a double boiler method. I recommend this method against using a microwave because the microwave runs the risk of burning your wax.
A Thermometer will be used to track your temperatures and is vital to making a candle correctly.
A Wick Centering Tool to maintain your wick placement once the hot wax is poured. You can buy these or do a D.I.Y. version of your own but without these your wick could lean severely and hinder the candles performance.
Now the more fun stuff. What is in a candle?
The Vessel you choose will help you decide on wax and wicks so it helps to know what you want to use. Tin vessels retain the most heat and help with even melt pools but can get very hot. Glass is the most widely used and middle of the ground with heat retention. Concrete is a fun and unique vessels but requires a lot more heat than average vessels.
Wax and Wicks can be overwhelming to decide on because of the variety and unique attributes to each. Best way to get started with was is looking at what your supplier has available and seeing what characteristics you want to work with. Your most common waxes are soy and paraffin and will have the most information available if you want to look for further instruction. Your supplier will also recommend wicks based on the type of wax the width of your vessel. Don't forget your Wick Stickers to keep them in place.
(Optional) A Wick placement tool is unnecessary but is a quality of life addition for difficult vessels and those who want to keep making candles!
Fragrance Oil is the best part of candle making! You can pick one or blend them, though, be careful blending past two because too many fragrance notes might not go well with the nose. Now, here, you have a lot of freedom for what you can choose and if you know a specific note you like or a category that helps when choosing a fragrance oil. If you have any candles around or find a candle you like the fragrance are often listed on the labeling. One thing to keep in mind is performance of an oil will differ based on wax and oil quality so if you want to be sure of the oils your buying be sure to read the reviews.
(Optional) Color is a favorite here at The Candle Palette and a great way to get creative with your own candles at home.
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