Candle Wax

Every year the number of waxes to choose from becomes wider. These days the candle maker has an infinite amount of choices to make when starting out or even looking at a new wax. During the selection process a basic decision has to be made between
Paraffin waxes,
Natural wax,
Hybrid waxes and
Gel Wax.
Within each of the above classifications there are many choices available. We will cover these waxes in our discussion.
The largest segment of the market right now is paraffin wax candles. Paraffin waxes are available as a straight wax or as a blended wax. A generic definition of straight paraffin would be a wax that has no additives as part of the product. For optimum results, most straight waxes will require some type of additives to be used. A blend, on the other hand, would generally be a wax that is ready to go for the candle maker–no other additives are needed except for the scent and color. A blend and straight paraffin will have their own strengths and weaknesses. Straight waxes are generally available in melt point range of 120-160 degrees F.
There are a number of choices to make within the natural wax category also. These choices include beeswax (yellow and white), soy wax, vegetable base and even palm-based products. The yellow beeswax continues to be a popular choice among candle makers. This product is relatively easy to use and is a very consistent product. When doing containers a 100% soy product is a great choice. One of the drawbacks with the soy products has been their inability to retain the scent for longer period of time.

F Wax Candles

One of the most novel products within the natural waxes category has to be the new “Design” waxes, which include F Wax, G Wax and Q Wax. These waxes allow candles to be made where each candle has a unique design and texture.
One of the newest categories of waxes to “hit the market” is referred to by many as hybrids. These waxes, while they are not always promoted as such, are a combination of paraffin waxes and natural waxes. These waxes enjoy the benefits of the less shrinkage the soys offer combined with the positive scent retention and burning characteristics of paraffin waxes.