Whether you’re an experienced crafter or an absolute beginner, making candles is fun, therapeutic, and a great way to expand on your creative skills. You will need a few tools and ingredients to get started, but these will be a great investment in the long run – particularly if you are looking to sell your beautiful, fragrant creations.

Continue reading to learn a little more about what types of tools and equipment you will need to get started on your candle making journey, and how to source high-quality candle supplies in Australia.

Candle Wax

Different waxes can be used to make candles. The size and shape of your candle will dictate what type of wax you should use.

Candle wax is often categorised by its main ingredient, be it paraffin wax, beeswax, or soy wax. To create candles with an excellent scent throw and a slow burn, opt for a soy variety. Soy wax burns more evenly than other types (particularly paraffin) and will produce less soot.

Soy wax is a particularly good option for those looking to create container candles and tealights.

Candle Wicks

Without a wick, you simply have no candle! The quality of your wick is important as it directly influences the intensity and consistency of your candle’s burn.

When deciding on a wick, there are a few key factors to consider. Wicks are available in different diameters and lengths. The type of fragrance, dye, and wax used can all impact how a candle burns. It will take some experimentation to find the right wick. Many suppliers offer wick sampler kits for this purpose.

Pre-tabbed wicks come with a metal tool that can be used to secure the wick to the bottom of the candle and prevent heat from travelling to the base.

Candle Container

Making candles provides you with the opportunity to let your creativity run wild, particularly when it comes to the form of your creations.

It’s important that you don’t use any old container to make your candle — it must be heat-resistant, an even shape, and made of a material not prone to cracking or leaking.

With that in mind, it’s well worth purchasing specialist containers, rather than simply using any jar you have around the house.

Candle Dye

Candles come in a fantastic array of different colours and it doesn’t take more than a few drops of high-quality dye to create a vivid, vibrant product.

It’s important that you don’t use just any dye, but one that is specifically designed for candles. A liquid dye is recommended if you want to create custom colours and you should also consider how your choice in colour reflects (or clashes) with your fragrance.

Candle Fragrance

Your choice in candle scent is what will really make your product stand out from the crowd. With that in mind, the quality of your fragrance oil is incredibly important.

You should source fragrance oils that are designed for specific use in candles. Be aware that some fragrance oils can contain nasty chemicals, such as phthalates, that are best avoided. The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) has developed a list of standards that are designed to promote safety and wellbeing; be sure that your chosen fragrance oil is IFRA approved before using it in your candles.

Candle Making Equipment

Finally, there are a few essential tools you will need to start on your candle creation journey. You may already have some of these lying around your kitchen. Otherwise, it’s best to source them from a candle making supplier.

Equipment you may need includes a thermometer, scales, pipette, heat gun, and a suitable container (such as a pot) for melting the wax.

Finding a Supplier

Google ‘candle supplies in Australia’ and you’ll immediately be confronted with a number of supplier options. So, how do you go about finding a quality supplier who can meet your needs?

There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for candle supplies. To start with, consider what quantities of ingredients you will need. If you are looking to grow your business and customer base, working with a supplier who is continually running out of stock is not the best idea. Browse online (or in-store) to get an idea of the supplier’s range and take note of any products that are currently not available.

While some candle supplies businesses operate from a showroom, generally they do not keep stock there, and you will likely need to pre-order or purchase your supplies online for delivery. Customer service is very important. Check that the company can be contacted (via email or preferably, phone). Look to see whether their website has any reviews from past customers. An active social media presence is another great way to tell whether a company is likely to be responsive to customer inquiries.

Whether you are making candles as a hobby or looking to start a profitable business, you will no doubt be investing much time and energy into your creations. The last thing you want to be worrying about is late stock deliveries or running low on ingredients. Think of your supplier as a partner who can take care of all these details for you, supporting your goals and passion.