Ready to pour your own cozy candle collection? This guide is perfect for beginners looking to start with simple tools, safe ingredients, and two wax options that suit different styles and preferences.
What You’ll Need
Wax Options
Soy Wax (Golden Brands 464 or Amazon alternatives)
Coconut Olive Wax (Virginia Candle Supply or Amazon alternatives)
Containers
4 oz or 8 oz glass jars or tins (heat-safe)
Fragrance or Essential Oils
- Fragrance oils = stronger, more consistent scent throw
-
Essential oils = natural, lighter throw
(Make sure they’re candle-safe and phthalate-free.)
Wicks (CD or ECO recommended)
- Wick stickers or hot glue
- Pouring pitcher or double boiler
- Thermometer
- Stirring stick
- Digital scale
Wick Sizing Guide
| Jar Size | Soy Wax | Coconut Olive Wax |
|---|---|---|
| 4 oz | CD 6 or ECO 1 | CD 8 or ECO 2 |
| 8 oz | CD 10 or ECO 8 | CD 12 or ECO 10 |
Always center your wick and test burn before scaling.
How Much Fragrance Oil?
Use 6–10% fragrance oil based on your wax weight.
For 8% FO:
- 8 oz candle → 0.64 oz FO
- 4 oz candle → 0.32 oz FO
Essential oils? Stick to 6% max for best results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Jars
- Stick your wick in the center using wick stickers or glue.
Melt Wax
- Double boiler method recommended.
Heat to:
- Soy: 170–185°F
- Coconut Olive: 185–200°F
Add Fragrance
- Let wax cool to 160°F, then stir in fragrance for 2 mins.
Pour into Jars
- Leave ½" space at the top. Keep wick centered.
Cure & Trim
- Let sit undisturbed for 7-14 days for most accurate scent throw and burn results.
- Trim wick to ¼" before lighting.
Safety Notes
- Never pour wax down the drain.
- Always monitor candles while burning.
- Store supplies away from kids and pets.
- Keep a fire extinguisher on hand if testing batches.
Final Tips from Essentially Cozy Co.
Whether you're making gifts, building a side hobby, or prepping to launch your own line, these steps will set you up for success!
Not every candle is made equal! Test things out for yourself, candle making is a science. It takes time to learn the nuances of the craft.
Don't give up! I know it seems like a lot but take it one step at a time.
For Testing Labels & Notes pages, visit our Digital Tools for Candle Makers page!