In candlemaking, there are a wide variety of wax additives to use in your wax used to achieve certain effects, for instance to make colors brighter or more opaque, increase luster, stabilize scent, increase burn time and burn quality. Here is a list of the most common additives that are used and why.
Stearic Acid
Stearic Acid, also know as stearine is added to paraffin wax, is used to
brighten color and can also give a more opaque appearance. This additive is also used to improve burn time, burn quality, leave a glossy finishand decrease shrinkage. Suggested amount to use is 3 tb. per pound of wax. Adding more can cause a mottled look. This is an animal by- product, but vegetable substitutes are readily available.
Vybar
Vybar is used to make your wax harder, reduce shrinkage and stabilize scent.
This can also make your wax more opaque, recommended amount is usually between ½ tsp. to 1 tsp. per pound of wax.
Luster Crystals
Luster Crystals can provide a shine to your candles, brighten the color, make wax opaque and extend burn time.
Clear Crystals
Clear Crystals are perfect for achieving a more transparent look and makes the
wax harder.
Plastic Additives
Plastic additives,
like clear crystals help in providing a more transparent look, which is great to
use when making hurricane candles. Plastic additives will also harden the wax, use in quantities of 5%
and melt over direct heat before adding to your melted wax.
Microcrystalline Wax
This is recommended for making tapers and
pillars, to harden the wax, reduce mottling. Recommended usage is 1-2 teaspoons
per pound of wax. Melt point is approximately 195° F (91 C).
UV Inhibitors
UV
Inhibitors can help reduce the effects of color fading, when placing candles in
direct or artificial sunlight. Most professional candlemakers will use this
additive when attending frequent outdoor shows.
Parol Oil
This
oil is used to create a mottled appearance, recommended usage is 1/2 to 1 oz. of
oil per pound.