Do you love burning candles? According to the National Candle Association, U.S. retail sales of candles are about $3.2 billion annually. Approximately 35 percent of those candle sales occur during the holiday season. If you are looking for a great gift to give, consider buying or making a candle! Keep reading to learn five facts about wax candles.

1. Paraffin Wax Is Commonly Used

The most popular wax used to make candles is paraffin wax. Paraffin wax is classified as a petroleum wax. It comes from petroleum, coal and oil shale. It is also used in crayons and cosmetics.

2. Many Other Wax Types Are Also Used

Although paraffin is the most commonly used candle wax, there are a variety of other waxes that make great candles, too. Beeswax, soy wax, palm wax and synthetic waxes are all popular options.

3. Candles Are Customizable

If you are crafting a candle creation to give as a gift this season, consider customizing your design! Candle waxes are scentless and colorless. You can add coloring and fragrances to make your candle unique. The melted wax also takes any shape, so consider pouring your mix into a unique jar for a custom look.

4. Candles Are Simple To Make

Creating candles doesn’t take a lot of supplies. All that is needed is a wick, wax, container and any optional additives you wish to mix in. Most candles are made by placing a cotton wick into wax and molding the melted wax into the desired shape and size.

5. Candle Waxes Are Safe

There have been reports of certain candle waxes being dangerous to burn, but scientific studies have shown that all major candle waxes have the same basic burn behavior and produce virtually identical combustion byproducts. Candles haven’t been proven to be harmful to your health.

Do you need wax to create your candle gifts this season? Visit our online wax store to get your candle wax.