Equipment & Tools Needed for Making Candles
Candle making is a project that can be done in the home without much specialized equipment. The essential items are wax, wicking and a way to melt the wax. Be aware that any pots or utensils used with wax cannot be reused for food. There are many types of wax available, but wax that is labeled for candle making will yield the best results. When choosing wicking, it is important to get the right thickness for the width of your finished candle.
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Rolled Beeswax Candles
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The simplest candles to make are rolled beeswax candles, and very few supplies are needed to make them. You will need sheets of beeswax and candle wicking for this project.
Dip Candles
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A few items are need for basic dip candle making. You will need a high-walled pot or coffee can and a second pot that is wider than the first. You can also use a commercial wax melting pot. Additional equipment includes a heat-resistant stirring stick, candle wicking and wax.
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Jar Candles
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For jar candles, you will need the same supplies as for dip candles and some additional items. A thermometer is useful when pouring wax, as this process is more temperature sensitive. You'll also need metal wick clips to keep the wick from floating up in the hot wax. Finally, you'll need a glass jar or metal container for your candle.
Molded Candles
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You'll need most of the same supplies for molded candles as you do for jar candles. Since you won't be using the jar as a candle container, you will need a candle mold to create the candle's shape. Candle molds can be purchased from a craft supplier, but a paper container such as a milk carton can also be used as a single-use tear-away mold.
Additional Items
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Additional items can be added to further enhance your dip, jar or molded candles, such as candle color and scented oils for candle making.
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