People have been making candles for millennia, and while the advent of electric lights has made them obsolete purely as a light source, they still offer an immeasurable amount of value in ceremonies, therapeutic techniques, improving aesthetics, creating an atmosphere, and being an all-around enjoyable hobby.
Making candles can be a fun, relaxing activity with infinite avenues for creativity, but if you're a beginner, it can be difficult to know where to get started. That's where candle making kits come in; to streamline and simplify a difficult process without detracting from its beauty or enjoyability. We've compiled a list of the 10 best candle making kits to help you figure out which kits have the most to offer, including our favorite, CraftZee Complete Candle Making Kit by DilaBee!
Quick List - Top Candle Making Kits
Toadily Handmade Beeswax Candles
Best for Easy Assembly for Whole Family
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
Table of Contents
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Now that you've taken a look at our 10 best list, you may be wondering, "Which kit would work best for me?" Below is a purchasing guide to give you a small glimpse into the wonderful world of candle making.
When picking out a candle making kit, the first thing that you have to consider is your own level of experience. Are you a complete beginner? A casual hobbyist? A professional?
Some kits are designed for beginners, with easy-to-follow instructions, and include everything you’ll need (melting pot, wax, wicks, wick holders, and so on) to make your own candles.
Others are geared towards more experienced users, and may only include wax and wicks with the assumption that you already have other necessary equipment on hand.
If you’ve never made candles before, chances are you probably don’t have the right equipment on hand. This is where a kit can come in handy; not only does it have everything you need to get started, but kits also often come with instructions to walk you through the candle-making process step-by-step.
Just keep in mind that if this is your first time making candles, you’re probably better off sticking to a kit with a smaller amount of wax. After all, you don’t want to buy ten pounds of wax only to discover after making one or two candles that it’s really not right for you.
Even if you already know the basics of candle-making, a kit can still come in handy. No matter your level of experience, there’s always something you haven’t seen before. It may be an entirely new product or simply an old one regaining popularity.
In such cases, a candle-making kit can be a useful springboard when experimenting with a type of wax that you’ve never used before, and may even offer new or unique methods that you’ve yet to try out. It can also give you a chance to try out a new pot or wick holder if you’re not happy with your current equipment.
Kits that come equipped with fancy containers or somewhat extravagant scents and dyes are perfect for making candles to give as gifts. Not only will it give you a chance to be a bit fancier than you might otherwise, but you also won’t have to use up your own materials while still crafting a thoughtful, unique gift.
Perhaps the most important component of a candle-making kit is the wax. Wax, after all, makes up the majority of the candle. It also determines what shape you can mold the candle into, whether or not it has any natural color or fragrance, how much soot it produces as it burns, and so on.
Beeswax is perhaps the most well-known and oldest wax for making candles. It has a naturally sweet scent, tends to burn longer than other waxes, and (like most natural waxes) typically produces very little soot as it burns.
The main downsides to beeswax are its cost and its difficulty of use. Beeswax is probably the most expensive candle wax, is quite hard, and has a high melt point at 145 degrees Fahrenheit, which can make it difficult to use. Because of the consistency, beeswax is often used to make pillar candles, free-standing candles that require the use of harder waxes because they are unsupported by a container.
Since it has its own scent and color, you don't need additional scents or dyes, but you'll never be able to make a "plain" candle with it either; although depending on the kind of candles you want to make, that might actually be a positive. You can create golden-yellow, sweetly-scented candles without needing to add dyes and essential oils.
If this is your first venture into candle making, this may be the first you’ve ever heard of soy wax. Though composed primarily of soybean oil, it is often combined with other oils or waxes (anything from beeswax to paraffin) to make a soy wax blend.
It is a very popular type of wax to use, with the majority of candle making kits on the online market today featuring soy wax. Soy wax tends to burn significantly longer than something like paraffin due to its denser nature. It is also fairly easy to pour (a plus for beginners!) and is easy to clean up from carpet and furniture.
On the downside, it requires more dye to get a good, strong color compared to other waxes. Pure soy wax also tends to be too brittle to make free-standing candles (as opposed to candles in a container such as a tin or glass jar), but you can circumvent this problem by using a soy wax blend, which is generally much easier to work with.
Palm wax is another excellent choice if you want to go all-natural. It burns much brighter than other types of wax, but tends to be brittle, and produces a candle with a rather stunning crystalline or feathered pattern.
Palm wax works very well with most dyes and scents, keeping a strong, stable color that meshes beautifully with its natural pattern. The main drawback is that palm wax is rather difficult to work with, and as such would not be a good choice if you’re new to candle-making.
As a note: look for palm wax that is RSPO-Certified to ensure that it is ethically sourced. If not, there’s a good chance that it could have been produced through environmentally damaging means, such as clear-cut foresting.
Though one of the most prominent features, wax isn’t the only part you need to take into consideration when purchasing a kit – especially considering some kits don’t even include wax! Here’s a quick run-down of some other components you may come across, though note that not every kit will include the below products.
Since candle wax is best melted using a double boiler method, you don’t have to worry about finding a pouring pot that can be put directly on a heat source.
Instead, your main concern will be to ensure that the handle of your pot stands out far enough from the body so there’s no risk of burning yourself when you go to pick it up. However, if the handle sticks out over the burner, a non-heat-resistant handle might just start melting.
Everything else about the pot – whether you want to go with aluminum, stainless steel, or even just a large, heat-resistant glass measuring cup – is purely up to personal preference.
If you’re new to candle-making, you may not realize just how different types of wicks can affect how the overall candle turns out. The width of the wick affects how well the candle burns.
If it's too small, it’ll create a tunnel effect that snuffs itself out; too large and the candle flame will produce soot that will blacken its container and may even damage the surface it’s placed on. This is a case where experimentation or reading user reviews will come in handy.
Though not strictly necessary to the candle-making process, adding fragrances or dyes is one of the most attractive features of making candles yourself instead of buying them from the store: maximum customization.
One of the nice things about kits is that you don’t have to do the calculations to figure out how much dye or fragrance to use for each candle; a good kit will provide instructions on measurements for you.
If you’re planning on buying fragrances or dyes separate from a kit, however, be sure that the products are meant specifically for candles. You can’t use just any essential oil in a candle wax; at best, the wax and additive won’t come together and your candle will be ruined. At worst, you’ll have a fire hazard on your hands.
When using molds or making pillar candles, there’s a risk of the candle falling apart or getting messy, especially if you're inexperienced with the process or even just inexperienced with the kind of wax you’re using.
Using a container means there’s much less room for error since all you have to do is set the wick, pour the melted wax in the container, and let it cool.
The right container can also add a professional look to your candle in order to make it the perfect gift. While some kits might offer very decorative containers, you don’t necessarily need to go that far in making an eye-catching candle. Even simple tins or jars can give off a clean, polished look that will please any recipient.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | DilaBee CraftZee Complete Candle Making Kit | ![]() | Best All-Inclusive Kit Perfect for Beginners | |
2 | Toadily Handmade Beeswax Candles Make Your Own Beeswax Candle Kit | ![]() | Best for Easy Assembly for Whole Family | |
3 | CandleologyUS Candle Making Supplies Kit | ![]() | Best for a Variety of Tools and Pots for Your Candles | |
4 | Dingpai Candle Making Kit | ![]() | Best Basic Kit to Use With Many Wax Types | |
5 | Yinuo Light Scented Candle Making Kit DIY Gift Set | ![]() | Best Kit With Colorful Tins for Gift-Giving | |
6 | lunaforest76 Ultimate Candle Making Kit Supplies | ![]() | Best Luxury Candle Making Set | |
7 | Oraganix Natural Soy Wax and Wicks | ![]() | Best Soy Wax Kit for More Advanced Candle-Makers | |
8 | Hearts and Crafts Feathering Palm Wax and Wicks | ![]() | Best Palm Wax Kit for Feathered Candles | |
9 | Candle Shop Candle Molds Cylinder Set | ![]() | Best Set of Molds With Wicks for Pillar Candles | |
10 | STMT DIY Custom Candles | ![]() | Best Kit for Making Customized Candles for Preteens |
Pros:
Cons:
DilaBee's all-inclusive kit is great for first-timers. It provides you with every piece of equipment you'll need, including instructions, to make candles, much of which can be reused again for future candle-making endeavors. Four colors of wax and five scents allow for a lot of room to create different combinations, as well.
Some users mention that they needed to adjust the instructions to add less wax and less fragrance, so make sure to experiment a bit beforehand to find your perfect blend. However, most reviewers said this kit is perfect for beginners; many ordered more wax and scents and reused the equipment provided by this kit to make even more candles.
Pros:
Cons:
This beeswax sheet kit offers all the fun and creativity of making candles without any of the mess of melting and pouring hot wax. Just roll the sheets around one of the included wicks! You can even cut smaller pieces of the colored sheets to decorate the candles.
Some users noted that the sheets were rather thick and could be difficult to roll up, particularly in cold weather. Use a hairdryer to warm up the sheets and make them more pliable. However, the kit was easy to use and made for a fun activity to do with kids. The ability to mix and match different colors to create a unique sheet candle is also a huge plus.
Pros:
Cons:
If you're looking to make a variety of different candles, then CandleologyUS' kit is perfect! It comes with instructions for various candle types and four different tins for the candles you make. With 89 pieces included, you won't need to buy any extras!
Some reviewers weren't fans of the cedarwood essential oil, but most loved how well the set is packaged and how the candles are easy to make and the instructions, for the most part, equally easy to follow. Many also say that the kit arrived quickly and was packaged nicely.
Pros:
Cons:
For those who would like the convenience that a kit provides but want the freedom to choose their own wax, scents, or dyes, Dingpai's candle making kit is a perfect alternative. Melt soy wax, beeswax, or paraffin wax with the handy melting pot and use the wicks and jars to complete your candle project.
Some say the glue dots came loose once the wax is poured into the container; you can glue the wick directly to its container instead. All of the other equipment is of high quality and offer a nice place to start for someone new to candle making. Reviewers have commented that the pot provided in the kit was sturdy and easy to pour.
Pros:
Cons:
For those looking to give a kit as a present, this one complete with six decorative tins is made for just that purpose. It's also great for those who are a bit more knowledgeable about candle making and want to update their equipment. It comes with everything you need to make six beeswax candles in multiple colors and includes scents such lemon, rose, and ocean.
Many have commented that the instructions are not very detailed, so it may not be good for beginners. However, there is a video on the site that provides specific instructions. Reviewers love how beautiful this kit and its tins are, along with how high-quality the different components are, particularly the wax and scents.
Pros:
Cons:
This kit is perfect for gift giving to your more minimalistic friends or to create luxurious candles. Each item is packed with care and given a simple, modern-style label. There are 45 scents to choose from and you can add up to two fragrances per purchase, making the kit highly customizable. You can make up to two soy candles with the included ingredients.
Though the package lacks a melting pot - you will need to buy one separately, reviewers love the beautiful packaging, and how each item included seemed luxurious. The scents were also a huge hit with buyers.
Pros:
Cons:
For those with some experience in candle-making who already have all the equipment they need, this is a great option to stock up on some high-quality soy wax. Users of this product consistently talk about how quickly the wax melts, and then how evenly the candles burn.
There were some complaints about the wicks, but other users suggest that a lot of the problems could be solved by, for example, using two wicks instead of one when making a wider candle. Also note that this kit does not come with an instruction manual, as the target for this product is someone with more experience.
Pros:
Cons:
If you're more experienced with candle making and want to experiment with palm wax, this kit provides an excellent feathering wax to try your hand at. The resultant candle has a beautiful feathering pattern. Note that this is not a wax for beginners.
Several reviewers have mentioned that the wax is prone to forming air bubbles if you're not careful and needs to be heated to a very high temperature for the best results. However, you'll end up with gorgeous, sturdy candles if you do it correctly. Users who had added scent also mentioned that the candles had a good scent throw.
Pros:
Cons:
Many kits come with standard jars or tins for candles, but those aren't the only types of candles you can make. These candle molds are great for making self-standing pillar candles. They're two-part, with a body and lid. The lid can be removed to take out the completed candle easily. Since molds are a bit more difficult than using jars, it's recommended to use them if you are more advanced.
Most of the complaints, such as wax leaking or having trouble getting the candle out of its mold, seem to be a result of inexperience. Many reviewers have commented on how sturdy their plastic molds are, so you can use them over and over without worrying about them cracking. More experienced candle makers seem very satisfied overall with the quality and build of these molds.
Pros:
Cons:
This kit by STMT is great for older kids who love crafting projects. It provides everything needed to make two chic, stylish candles and is simpler to make than other options. Sticker labels are included so you can add a colorful touch to the outside of each tin and you can mix and match the included fragrances and color dyes.
Some lamented over the limited choices (for example, only having pink and pale blue dyes) or the scents not being very strong. However, many found it made for a fun activity to do with kids - easy to use, with easy-to-follow instructions. They also enjoyed how you could decorate the tins, something not typically offered by most other kits.
Although we've covered various wax types in the buying guide, there are a few that are more common to find in bulk or in smaller bags, sold alone and not as a kit. The one you may come across most often is paraffin wax.
Probably the most commonly used wax in store-bought candles, paraffin wax’s key selling points are its cheapness and versatility. It’s probably the easiest wax to work with, making it ideal for beginners.
Since it’s both colorless and odorless, it is also perfect for mixing with dyes and fragrances. It also tends to be better at throwing scent or “perfuming a room” than something like soy wax.
Though derived from fossil fuels, it should be noted that paraffin wax is a clean-burning fuel, and the chemicals and soot released when burning paraffin are minimal enough that it will not affect most people.
That being said, paraffin is more likely to aggravate one’s asthma or allergies than a more natural wax which releases even fewer elements. If air quality is a concern, you’ll want to stick to beeswax, palm wax, or soy wax, which you can also find in bags when you run out of the wax that comes with your kit.
Looking for a new hobby, or hoping to reignite an old one? Check out some of our other mybest pages for some helpful suggestions!
No. 1: DilaBee|CraftZee Complete Candle Making Kit
No. 2: Toadily Handmade Beeswax Candles|Make Your Own Beeswax Candle Kit
No. 3: CandleologyUS|Candle Making Supplies Kit
No. 4: Dingpai|Candle Making Kit
No. 5: Yinuo Light|Scented Candle Making Kit DIY Gift Set
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Health
Beauty
Home goods
Home electronics
PC
Camera
Food and drinks
Kitchen
Fashion
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior
Hobbies
Outdoor
Home, garden, and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Media
Games
Apps
Automotive
Gifts
Mobile devices