Ben Carter
Candles are an increasingly popular product, with the candle industry set to reach $10 billion in global sales by 2032. The materials to make candles are affordable, especially when buying wholesale, and the production process is simple. The most important characteristic impacting candle purchases is fragrance, with three-fourths of candle buyers saying it is extremely important or very important in their selection. Other important factors include colour, cost and shape. There are many types of wax that can be used for candles, including paraffin, soy, beeswax, palm wax, and granulated wax. Soy wax can be purchased in bulk on wholesale candle sites like Bulk Apothecary for around $10 per pound. Other online suppliers include CandleScience and The Flaming Candle Company, which offer a variety of waxes, including soy, paraffin, beeswax, and coconut. Wicks can be sourced from companies like Candlewic and Wooden Wick Co. Receptacles for candles can be purchased through bulk item suppliers like Alibaba or from local thrift stores, dollar stores, or restaurant wholesalers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wax | Soy wax, paraffin wax, beeswax, palm wax, gel wax, granulated wax |
| Wax Supplier | CandleScience, The Flaming Candle Company |
| Fragrance | Essential oils, synthetic fragrances |
| Fragrance Supplier | doTERRA, Young Living, CandleScience, The Flaming Candle Company |
| Wicks | Candlewic, Wooden Wick Co. |
| Containers | Glass jars, mason jars, decorative glass |
| Container Supplier | Alibaba, local restaurants |
| Cost | $1.99 - $35 for standard candles; $200+ for premium/luxury candles |
| Market | Online boutiques, direct sales, retail outlets, speciality shops, department stores, home stores |
| Target Audience | People who use candles for home decor, relaxation, aromatherapy, gifts |
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What You'll Learn
Sourcing wax: Soy, beeswax, palm, gel, or paraffin
When it comes to sourcing wax for your candle business, there are several types to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. The most popular types of wax include soy, beeswax, palm, gel, and paraffin. Here's an overview of each type to help you make an informed decision:
Soy Wax
Soy wax is a natural and renewable wax derived from soybean oil. It is a popular choice for eco-conscious candle makers as it is biodegradable and environmentally friendly. Soy wax burns slower and cooler than paraffin wax, resulting in a longer-lasting candle. It also holds onto scents well and releases them gradually, ensuring a consistent fragrance. Soy wax is ideal for container candles, such as tealights, votives, and tarts, as it is a softer material. You can find soy wax in bulk on wholesale sites like Bulk Apothecary for around $10 per pound.
Beeswax
Beeswax is the oldest known candle material, produced by honey bees. It has a natural, honey-like fragrance and a golden colour, making it aesthetically appealing. Beeswax burns slowly, resulting in a long-lasting candle. It is also naturally scented, with a mild, sweet fragrance from the honey and flower pollen mixed by bees, eliminating the need for additional fragrances. However, beeswax is typically more expensive than other types of wax.
Palm Wax
Palm wax is another natural and biodegradable wax derived from palm oils. It gives candles a unique texture and look due to the crystallizing or feathering patterns that form on the surface. Palm wax is suitable for pillars, votives, and tarts. However, one concern with palm wax is its contribution to the deforestation of palm trees.
Gel Wax
Gel wax is a soft, gelatin-like wax made from a combination of mineral oil and polymer resin. It requires a container to prevent spilling and can be used to create decorative candles with translucent qualities. Gel candles have a higher melting point than wax candles, resulting in longer-lasting light. However, they have a tendency to overheat, which can cause thin glass containers to crack or break. Additionally, gel wax is not natural or biodegradable.
Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is a byproduct of petroleum, coal, or shale processing, and it is the most commonly used candle wax due to its cost-effectiveness and versatility. It has an excellent scent throw, holding and releasing fragrances effectively. Paraffin wax candles have a smooth, shiny finish and don't frost like soy wax. They can be used to make a wide range of candle types, including taper candles and pillars. However, paraffin wax burns faster than soy or beeswax, and it is not as eco-friendly.
Ultimately, the choice of wax depends on your specific requirements, target market, and personal preferences. Consider factors such as burning time, scent, appearance, and environmental impact when making your decision.
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Containers: Glass jars from thrift stores or dollar stores
Glass containers are a popular choice for candles, with jar candles being the most popular type of candle with American consumers. They can be sourced from thrift stores or dollar stores, and there are a few options for the type of glass container you can use.
Firstly, glass jars are a common find at thrift stores and second-hand shops. These can vary from standard mason jars to more unusually shaped jars. Jars are a great option for candles as they can be easily sealed, which can help with the preservation of the candle and the scent. They can also be aesthetically pleasing, especially if you opt for a more unique jar.
Another option is to use glass bowls, which are also commonly found at thrift stores. These can be turned into stylish candles with cut or pressed glass that reflects light. You can opt for a small, single-wick candle or a larger, multi-wick candle.
It is important to note that when using glass containers, you should ensure the glass is thick and of good quality, especially if you are selling these candles as a business. Some dollar store glassware may be too thin and therefore not suitable for candles, as it may crack or break.
If you are looking for a more unique option, you could consider upcycling old glassware or candle holders found at thrift stores. This could be a fun way to create one-of-a-kind candles, but it may be more time-consuming and difficult to find suitable glassware in large quantities.
Overall, sourcing glass containers for candles from thrift stores or dollar stores is a great option, especially if you are looking for a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to start your candle business.
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Scents: Essential oils from craft or wellness stores
Sourcing scents for your candles is a crucial step in the candle-making business. According to the National Candle Association, fragrance is the most important factor influencing candle purchases, with three-fourths of candle buyers considering it "extremely important" or "very important". Therefore, it is worth investing time in finding the right essential oils to create complex and appealing combinations.
Essential oils can be sourced from local craft or wellness stores, which often carry a variety of options. These stores typically offer pure essential oils of high aromatic quality, with some suppliers sourcing their oils directly from trusted growers and distillers worldwide. When purchasing from local craft or wellness stores, you can explore different scents, consult knowledgeable staff, and make informed decisions about the essential oils that align with your candle brand.
One such supplier is The Essential Oil Company, which offers premium essential oils and fragrances. With over 45 years of experience, they cater to makers, professionals, and everyday users. They also provide fast shipping and responsive customer service. Another option is Plant Therapy, which specializes in USDA-certified organic, non-toxic essential oils. Their oils are sourced from plants nurtured without synthetic interventions, ensuring purity and diverse applications, including aromatherapy, skincare, and eco-friendly cleaning.
When selecting essential oils, it is important to consider factors such as quality, purity, and intended use. Some essential oils are highly concentrated and should be properly diluted, especially if intended for food and wellness products. It is always recommended to consult a qualified professional to ensure safe usage.
By sourcing high-quality essential oils from reputable craft or wellness stores, you can create unique and captivating candle scents that will appeal to your target market and differentiate your brand in the candle industry.
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Wicks: Choose the right wick for your candle size
Wicks are an essential part of candle-making. Choosing the right wick is critical to the success of your candle business. The size of the wick will determine how your candle burns, and the wrong size can lead to an uneven burn or excess smoke.
There are various types of wicks available, each with its own unique characteristics. For example, a flat wick is a good option for a slow, steady burn, while a square braid wick is better suited for a faster burn. There are also specialty wicks, such as wooden wicks, which are known for their crackling sound and are often used in soy candles.
When choosing a wick, it's important to consider the size and type of candle you're making. For example, a larger candle will require a thicker wick to ensure a complete melt pool. On the other hand, a smaller candle, such as a tea light, will require a thinner wick.
Additionally, the type of wax you're using will also impact your wick selection. Different types of wax have different melting points and burn rates, which will affect the performance of the wick. For example, soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin wax, so it requires a wick with a lower temperature threshold.
Finally, it's important to test your wicks to ensure they're compatible with your candles. This can be done by burning a sample candle and observing the flame and burn quality. By taking the time to select the right wick and testing its compatibility, you can ensure that your candles burn efficiently and safely, providing your customers with a high-quality product.
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Online suppliers: CandleScience, Flaming Candle Co, or bulk sites
When sourcing candles for your business, online suppliers offer a convenient option with a wide range of choices. Three popular suppliers in this space are CandleScience, Flaming Candle Co., and bulk sites like Fillmore Container and Bulk Apothecary.
CandleScience
CandleScience is America's leading candle-making supplier, offering a comprehensive range of products for both beginners and experienced candle makers. They provide various candle-making supplies, including soy and paraffin wax, fragrance oils, candle wicks, and jars. The company has been in business for over 20 years and is known for its fast shipping, friendly customer service, and high-quality products. They also offer free educational resources, business guides, and creative inspiration to support crafters and entrepreneurs.
Flaming Candle Co.
Flaming Candle Co. is another reputable supplier in the candle-making industry. They pride themselves on their dedication to customer satisfaction and staying abreast of industry trends. Their staff has years of industry experience and connections with globally recognized manufacturers. Flaming Candle Co. offers a range of products, including tried-and-true techniques, easy-to-use formula calculators, and a troubleshooting guide for candle makers. They also emphasise their conscientious environmental practices and meticulous research and market negotiation processes.
Bulk Sites
Purchasing candles or candle-making supplies in bulk from wholesale sites can be a cost-effective option for businesses. Sites like Fillmore Container offer a one-stop shop for candle-making supplies, including wax, fragrance oils, jars, wicks, lids, and tools. They carry trusted brands like Cargill and NatureWax, catering to both small-batch and large-scale production needs. Buying wholesale from Fillmore Container provides flexibility, as they allow customers to order in bulk without imposing restrictive limits. Another option for bulk purchases is Bulk Apothecary, where you can find soy wax at competitive prices.
Whether you choose to source your candles from specialised suppliers like CandleScience and Flaming Candle Co. or opt for the convenience and cost savings of bulk sites, these online options provide a great starting point for your business needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Candle wax can be sourced from local craft stores or online suppliers. Some notable online suppliers are CandleScience and The Flaming Candle Company. They offer various waxes, including soy, paraffin, beeswax, and coconut. Soy wax can also be purchased in bulk from wholesale candle sites like Bulk Apothecary.
Candle jars and containers can be sourced from thrift stores, dollar stores, or bulk item suppliers like Alibaba. You could also explore restaurant wholesalers near you if you're interested in using mason jars or decorative glass.
Candle wicks can be purchased from suppliers like Candlewic and Wooden Wick Co., which offer a variety of wicks for different candle types. Fragrances can be sourced from suppliers like CandleScience or The Flaming Candle Company, which offer synthetic fragrances. For natural essential oils, companies like doTERRA and Young Living are good options.
