Candle Making Calculator

Enter your container size, wax type, and fragrance load to calculate exactly how much wax and fragrance oil you need per candle and per batch.

Candle Settings

0% (no fragrance) 12% (heavy scent)

Cost Estimate (optional)

Batch Results

Per Candle
Wax
0
oz
Fragrance
0
oz
Total Weight
0
oz
Full Batch
Total Wax
0
oz
Total Fragrance
0
oz
Total Batch Weight
0
oz
Total wax: 0 lb
Tip: Add 10-15% extra wax for topping off candles after the first pour cools and sinks.

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Candle Making Reference

Pouring Temperature Guide

  • Soy Wax (444/464) 120 – 140°F
  • Paraffin 170 – 180°F
  • Coconut Wax 100 – 120°F
  • Beeswax 145 – 175°F
  • Palm Wax 180 – 200°F
  • Parasoy Blend 135 – 145°F

Wick Sizing Guide

  • Under 2" diameter CD-5, ECO-2
  • 2" – 2.5" CD-8, ECO-6
  • 2.5" – 3" CD-10 – 12, ECO-8 – 10
  • 3" – 3.5" CD-14 – 18, ECO-12
  • 3.5" – 4" CD-20, ECO-14
  • Over 4" Multiple wicks recommended

Wax Type Comparison

  • Soy 464 Containers, smooth tops
  • Soy 444 Containers + tarts
  • Paraffin Strong throw, vibrant color
  • Coconut Clean burn, creamy look
  • Beeswax Natural, long burn
  • Parasoy Blended, good adhesion

Fragrance Load Tips

  • 3 – 5% Light, subtle scent
  • 6 – 8% Medium, well-balanced
  • 8 – 10% Strong hot & cold throw
  • 10 – 12% Maximum (paraffin only)
  • Soy max Typically 10 – 11%
  • Coconut max Typically 8%

Frequently Asked Questions

How much wax do I need to fill a candle container?

The amount of wax depends on your container volume and the type of wax you use. Each wax has a different density: soy wax weighs about 0.84-0.86 oz per fluid ounce of container space, while denser waxes like beeswax weigh about 0.96 oz per fluid ounce. Multiply your container volume by the wax density to get the weight of wax needed per candle.

What fragrance load percentage should I use for candles?

Most candle waxes perform best with a 6-10% fragrance load. Soy wax typically handles 6-10%, paraffin can go up to 10-12%, and coconut wax works well at 6-8%. Going above the recommended maximum can cause sweating, poor burning, or the fragrance separating from the wax. Always check your wax manufacturer's recommended maximum fragrance load.

How do I choose the right wick size for my candle?

Wick size depends primarily on your container diameter. A wick that is too small will tunnel down the center, while one that is too large will burn too hot and produce soot. For containers under 2 inches in diameter, use a small wick like CD-5 or ECO-2. For 2-3 inch containers, try CD-8 to CD-12 or ECO-6 to ECO-10. For 3-4 inch containers, use CD-14 to CD-20 or ECO-12 to ECO-14. Always test burn before making a full batch.