Paraffin wax

The base for your own candles and wax crafts

Paraffin wax is one of the most popular waxes for home candle making. It melts at a low temperature, pours smoothly, and sets into a clean, firm finish. It also takes colour and scent well, so you can create candles in any shade and fragrance you like.

The 250g pack is a practical starting size. It’s enough to make one or two small candles, or to test a new technique, colour, or scent before buying more. It’s also useful for wax melts, decorative wax pieces, moulded shapes, and crafts that need a wax coating.

Why you’ll like it

• Melts easily and pours smoothly
• Sets into a firm, even finish
• Takes candle dyes and fragrance oils well
• Suitable for container candles, moulded candles, and wax melts
• Useful for crafts, such as wax seals, wax coatings, and decorative pieces
• A 250g pack that suits small batches and trial projects
• An affordable choice for beginners and hobbyists

Great for

• Making candles at home
• Container candles in jars, tins, and cups
• Moulded candles and decorative shapes
• Wax melts and tarts
• Wax coating and sealing for crafts
• Gift candles and handmade presents
• Craft classes and workshops

What you’ll need
Paraffin wax is only one part of the kit. For candles, you’ll also need:

• A wick suited to the size of your candle or container
• A heatproof container or mould
• A double boiler or a pouring pot set in a pan of water
• A thermometer
• Candle dye and fragrance oil (optional)

How to make a simple candle

1. Set a heatproof container into a pan of simmering water to make a double boiler, and place the wax in the container.
2. Melt the wax slowly, stirring gently, until it’s fully liquid.
3. Check the temperature with a thermometer. Remove it from the heat once it reaches the temperature recommended on the pack.
4. Stir in candle dye and fragrance oil, if you’re using them.
5. Fix the wick in the centre of your jar or mould, and hold it upright with a wick holder or a peg.
6. Pour the wax slowly into the container.
7. Leave to cool and set completely, which usually takes several hours. Trim the wick to about 5mm before lighting.

Tips for better results

1. Melt the wax gently. Never rush it by raising the heat.
2. Warm the container slightly before pouring, so the wax cools evenly and sticks to the sides less.
3. Pour slowly to avoid air bubbles, and tap the container lightly to release any that form.
4. If the top sinks as it cools, reheat the surface with a heat gun and top up with a little more melted wax.
5. Add scent at the recommended temperature, since pouring it in too hot can burn off the fragrance.
6. Keep any unused wax in a clean, dry container, away from heat.

Safety

• Paraffin wax is flammable. Always melt it in a double boiler, never over direct heat.
• Never leave melting wax unattended, and never heat it in a microwave.
• Keep water away from hot wax. Don’t pour hot wax down a sink.
• If wax catches fire, don’t use water. Smother the flames with a lid, or use a suitable fire extinguisher.
• Burn finished candles in a safe place, away from children, pets, and anything flammable.
• Keep out of reach of young children.