Paraffin Wax For Candle Making

Paraffin wax is one of the most widely used waxes in the candle-making industry. It is an affordable and versatile wax that can be used in a variety of candle types. In this post, we will explore the characteristics of paraffin wax so you can make an informed decision when selecting the right candle wax for your needs.

Candle Types

Paraffin wax can be formulated at various melt points, meaning there are specialized paraffin blends on the market for all candle types including pillar, taper, tealight, votive, container, and melting tarts.

Price

Paraffin wax is renowned for its affordability, making it a budget-friendly option for candle makers. Its wide availability and cost-effectiveness make it a popular choice for those looking for economical candle-making materials.

Scent Throw

Paraffin wax has a stronger scent throw than other alternatives such as soy wax. Some individuals may experience allergies or sensitivities to the additives used in paraffin wax candles.

Colour

One of the advantages of paraffin wax is its versatility in terms of color options. It can be easily dyed to achieve a wide range of vibrant and appealing shades, allowing candle makers to unleash their creativity and meet diverse aesthetic preferences.

Melting Temperature

Paraffin wax has a melting point between 46 - 68°c (115 -154 °F) depending on the brand. This is a relatively higher melting point compared to other wax types, helping paraffin candles retain their shape even in warmer environments.

Performance

When properly burned, paraffin wax candles exhibit a steady flame, minimal dripping, and an even burn pool. However, if burned incorrectly or for extended periods a paraffin candle will create soot. Paraffin has a shorter burn time in comparison to other alternatives, such as soy coconut or beeswax.

Environmental Impact

Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum, a non-renewable fossil fuel resource. The extraction and processing of petroleum involve environmental concerns, including carbon emissions and potential ecological damage. As such, paraffin wax is not considered as environmentally friendly as some alternative options like soy wax or beeswax, which are derived from renewable resources.

Popular Paraffin Waxes

Paraffin Pillar Wax (MP-137) can be used to create pillars, tars, votives, tapers, and wax melts. It features an excellent scent throw and is in pastille form for ease of use.

IGI 4630 Harmony Blend Wax is suitable for creating container or tealight candles. It is popular due to its exceptional scent throw, good jar adhesion, and smooth glossy appearance.

Final Thoughts

Paraffin wax remains a popular choice in the candle-making industry due to its affordability, versatility, and excellent performance. It also offers a vivid range of colors, a strong scent throw, and is also vegan. However, it's essential to consider the environmental impact of paraffin wax, as it is derived from non-renewable petroleum sources. To see how paraffin wax stacks up against other waxes check out our post: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Candle Wax: Exploring Beeswax, Soy Wax, Paraffin Wax, and Coconut Wax!