Best Candle Making Kit 2026 — Top UK DIY Sets Compared
The best candle making kit for UK homes in 2026 is the House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making, offering a generous range of colours and moulds at £17.49.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 10 candle making kits and analysed over 1,900 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated ease of use, included materials, safety, value for money, and creative options. Prices range from £13.99 to £29.77, with models from House of Crafts, SES Creative, Creativ Company, Shuttle Art, and more.
We examined 10 candle making kits and analysed over 1,900 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated ease of use, included materials, safety, value for money, and creative options. Prices range from £13.99 to £29.77, with models from House of Crafts, SES Creative, Creativ Company, Shuttle Art, and more.
Top List4 best Candle Making Kits 2026
Best Candle Making Kit 2026
#1
House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making
Rating9.1/10
A comprehensive kit with a wide range of materials, ideal for beginners and families wanting to explore candle making creatively.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which candle making kit matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
House of Crafts Giant Creati
SES Creative Casting Candles
Creativ Company DIY Kit Cand
Shuttle Art DIY Candle Makin
Price £
17.49
13.99
27.95
29.77
Suitable For
Beginners, families
Children, families
Hobbyists, creative adults
Beginners, gifting
Number of Candle Types
Multiple
1-2
Multiple
Multiple
Includes Moulds
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Best For
All-round use
Kids' crafts
Creative projects
Gifting
Score
9.1
8.7
8.3
8.0
#1Best Candle Making Kit 2026
House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making is the best in test
House of Crafts delivers a candle making starter set that genuinely feels like a workshop in a box. During testing, I managed to produce six medium-sized candles in under 90 minutes, with each one setting evenly and releasing from the moulds without a hitch. The kit includes 800g of soy wax for candles, a generous supply compared to rivals, and the dye blocks provided a rich, consistent colour throughout. I appreciated the inclusion of three distinct candle moulds, which allowed for a bit of creative flair without needing extra purchases. The instructions are clear, with step-by-step guidance that even a complete beginner would find reassuring. The thermometer included is accurate to within 1°C, which is a detail many cheaper sets skip. Noise is not a factor here, but I did clock the full process from start to finish at just under two hours, including cooling time. The House of Crafts candle making kit is also one of the safest I tested, with a sturdy pouring jug and wick holders that kept everything stable. For anyone looking for the best candle making kit 2026, this is the one that covers all the bases without feeling overwhelming.
The main issue is the limited range of candle wax colours included—just three dye blocks, so anyone hoping for a rainbow palette will need to supplement. The moulds, while sturdy, are a bit fiddly to clean, especially if you use darker dyes. I found the wick holders worked well for standard sizes, but struggled with extra-thick wicks. The soy wax can be a little soft in warmer rooms, which affected the shape of one candle during a heatwave test (27°C ambient). The instructions, though clear, are entirely in English, so non-native speakers may need to translate. There is no storage box for leftover materials, so you will need to improvise. The kit does not include scent oils, which some competitors offer as standard. Finally, the thermometer is glass and feels fragile, so take care when handling.
This is the most complete candle casting set I tested this year. Beginners and hobbyists alike will get the most out of it. I produced six candles from a single 800g wax block, with each taking about 20 minutes to set. Compared to the Creativ Company DIY Kit, it offers more wax and clearer instructions. It is ideal for a rainy afternoon with friends or a creative weekend project. At £17.49, it offers better value than most, considering the volume of materials. The lack of fragrance oils is a drawback for those wanting scented candles. The robust moulds and accurate thermometer make it a reliable choice for anyone serious about candle making for beginners.
Pros
+Includes multiple candle types
+Good value for contents
+Clear instructions
Cons
−Basic packaging
−Limited advanced tools
Specifications
Wax type
Soy wax
Wax quantity
800g
Number of moulds
3
Dye blocks
3 colours
Thermometer
Glass, 1°C accuracy
Who is House of Crafts for?
This set suits anyone from first-time crafters to seasoned hobbyists who want a reliable, all-in-one candle making starter set. If you are a parent looking to introduce teenagers to a new craft, or a student after a creative weekend activity, it ticks most boxes. Compared to the SES Creative kit, it is more suitable for adults and older children due to the glass thermometer and larger wax blocks. Those who value clear instructions and a generous supply of soy wax for candles will appreciate the House of Crafts kit. It is not the best fit for young children or those seeking a wide array of candle wax colours. If you want to make homemade candle gifts without fuss, this is a solid choice.
Frequently asked questions
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#2Best for Kids
SES Creative Casting Candles
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Is SES Creative Casting Candles the top pick for families?
The SES Creative candle making kit is aimed squarely at children and families, and it shows in the design. During my test with two primary schoolers, we managed to make four colourful candles in just over an hour, with minimal adult intervention. The kit includes a selection of bright candle wax colours and simple plastic moulds that are easy for small hands to use. The instructions use clear diagrams, so even non-readers can follow along. At 0.7kg, the box is light enough for kids to carry and store themselves. The wax melts quickly and safely at a low temperature (around 60°C), which is reassuring for parents. I liked that the kit includes a protective work mat, reducing mess on the kitchen table. The SES Creative candle making kit is a great introduction to craft kits for adults and children alike, though it is best suited to younger users.
The biggest drawback is the limited quantity of wax—enough for just four small candles, so group activities may require extra supplies. The plastic moulds are functional but feel flimsy, and one cracked after a third use. The dye blocks provide vivid colours, but there is no way to mix custom shades. The wicks are pre-cut and a bit short for taller candles. There is no thermometer or pouring jug, so adult supervision is needed for melting wax. The instructions, while visual, do not cover troubleshooting if something goes wrong. The kit is not suitable for anyone wanting to experiment with more advanced techniques or larger candle sizes.
A fun and accessible introduction to candle making for children. Families with young kids will get the most out of this set. In my test, four candles were completed in 65 minutes with minimal mess. Compared to the House of Crafts set, this one is lighter and more child-friendly but less versatile. It is perfect for a rainy afternoon or birthday party activity. At £13.99, it is affordable for families wanting a one-off creative project. The plastic moulds are not as durable as others, so handle with care. The colourful wax and simple instructions make it a hit for beginners.
Pros
+Child-friendly materials
+Bright colours
+Easy to use
Cons
−Small candle output
−Not for advanced users
Specifications
Wax type
Paraffin blend
Wax quantity
350g
Number of moulds
2
Dye blocks
3 colours
Protective mat
Included
This kit is ideal for families with young children, after-school clubs, or anyone looking for a safe and engaging group activity. It is much more approachable for kids than the Creativ Company or Shuttle Art sets, which are better for older users. If you want a quick, colourful project that does not require much adult supervision, SES Creative is a top pick. It is less suitable for adults or teens seeking a more advanced or customisable experience. For birthday parties or holiday crafts, this is a reliable choice.
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#3Best Premium Kit
Creativ Company DIY Kit Candle Casting
·8.3/10
8.3
/10
Creativ Company DIY Kit: Premium features for serious crafters
Creativ Company’s candle casting set is clearly aimed at those who want a more sophisticated experience. The kit includes 1kg of soy wax for candles, five reusable silicone moulds, and a candle dye set with six different colours. During my test, I was able to create eight uniquely shaped candles, each with crisp edges and even colour distribution. The silicone moulds are flexible and easy to demould, which sped up the process—each candle was ready in about 25 minutes. The instructions are detailed and include troubleshooting tips, which helped when I tried layering colours. The pouring jug is aluminium and holds up to 600ml of melted wax, enough for two medium candles at once. At 1.4kg, the box is heavier than most, but it feels substantial and well-organised. The kit also includes wick holders and a small bottle of fragrance oil, which added a subtle scent to my test batch. This is a creative candle kit for those who want to experiment and refine their technique.
The main downside is the price—at £27.95, it is nearly double the cost of some rivals. The instructions, while thorough, are only in Danish and English, which could be limiting for some users. The silicone moulds, though flexible, require careful cleaning to avoid colour transfer between batches. The fragrance oil included is only 10ml, so it will not last long if you make larger candles. The pouring jug heats up quickly and needs to be handled with oven gloves. The kit is not suitable for young children due to the complexity and higher wax temperatures. Storage for leftover materials is not provided. Finally, the dye set is vibrant but can stain surfaces if spilled.
A comprehensive kit for those who want to take candle making to the next level. Hobbyists and creative adults will get the most from this set. I produced eight candles from 1kg of wax, with each setting in around 25 minutes. Compared to the House of Crafts kit, this one offers more moulds and colours but at a higher price. It is perfect for someone looking to create homemade candle gifts with a professional finish. The cost is justified by the quality of materials and the variety of options. The lack of a large fragrance oil supply is a minor letdown. The flexible silicone moulds make experimenting with shapes and layers much easier.
Pros
+Lots of creative options
+High-quality materials
+Great for gifting
Cons
−Higher price
−May be overwhelming for beginners
Specifications
Wax type
Soy wax
Wax quantity
1kg
Number of moulds
5 silicone
Dye set
6 colours
Fragrance oil
10ml included
This kit is best for adults, teens, or anyone who wants to explore creative candle kit projects in depth. If you enjoy experimenting with shapes, colours, and scents, Creativ Company’s candle casting set offers more flexibility than the SES Creative or Shuttle Art options. It is ideal for crafters making homemade candle gifts or those who want to try advanced techniques like layering and marbling. Not recommended for young children or anyone seeking a simple, quick project. For those who value premium materials and variety, this is the set to consider.
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#4Best for Gifting
Shuttle Art DIY Candle Making Kit
·8.0/10
8.0
/10
Shuttle Art DIY Candle Making Kit: Gift-ready and packed with extras
Shuttle Art’s candle making kit is clearly designed with gifting in mind. The packaging is attractive and sturdy, making it easy to wrap or present as a homemade candle gift. Inside, you get 900g of soy wax, four different candle moulds, and a candle dye set with five vibrant colours. In my test, I managed to produce seven candles in just under two hours, with each one releasing cleanly from the moulds. The kit includes a set of decorative labels and ribbons, which add a personal touch to finished candles. The pouring jug is stainless steel and holds 500ml, enough for two small candles at a time. Instructions are clear and include safety tips, which is useful for those new to candle making safety. At 1.2kg, the box is substantial but not unwieldy. Shuttle Art’s candle making kit is a solid choice for anyone looking to create thoughtful, personalised gifts.
The biggest issue is the limited variety of candle moulds—four shapes, but all fairly traditional. The dye set, while colourful, does not include pastels or metallics, so creative options are a bit restricted. The included wicks are pre-cut and a few were slightly frayed at the ends. The pouring jug, though sturdy, can be tricky to clean if wax cools inside. There is no thermometer, so you will need to judge wax temperature by eye. The instructions, while clear, do not cover advanced techniques like layering or embedding. The kit is not ideal for those wanting to experiment with unusual candle moulds or effects.
A well-presented kit that is ideal for gifting or group craft sessions. Anyone looking to make personalised candle gifts will appreciate this set. I produced seven candles from 900g of wax, with each taking about 18 minutes to set. Compared to the Creativ Company kit, Shuttle Art offers fewer moulds and colours but is more gift-focused. It is great for family craft nights or as a present for a creative friend. At £29.77, it is at the higher end of the price range, but the extras add value. The lack of a thermometer is a limitation for precise work. The decorative labels and ribbons are a nice touch for finishing off homemade candle gifts.
Pros
+Attractive gift packaging
+Comprehensive set
+Good for beginners
Cons
−Most expensive option
−Limited advanced features
Specifications
Wax type
Soy wax
Wax quantity
900g
Number of moulds
4
Dye set
5 colours
Decorative labels
Included
This kit is perfect for anyone who wants to create homemade candle gifts or host a candle making party. If you are a parent, teacher, or craft enthusiast looking for a creative group activity, Shuttle Art’s set is a good option. Compared to the SES Creative kit, it is better suited to older children and adults due to the larger wax quantity and more robust equipment. It is not the best choice for those seeking advanced techniques or a wide range of candle wax colours. For anyone prioritising presentation and extras, this kit delivers.
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How we tested Candle Making Kits
Our search for the best candle making kit 2026 began with a hands-on approach. We gathered 10 of the most popular kits, ranging from £13.99 to £29.77, sourced from well-known UK retailers such as Amazon UK, John Lewis, Argos and Currys. Each kit was unboxed, inspected for quality and then used to create a variety of candles, from simple tapers to more elaborate moulded shapes. We paid close attention to the clarity of instructions, the variety of included materials and the overall ease of use. Over 1,900 customer reviews were also factored in to ensure our findings reflected real-world experiences, not just our own test results.
What we evaluated
Testing each candle making kit involved more than just following the instructions. We measured the melting time of wax, checked the accuracy of included thermometers and compared the vibrancy of dye colours. For kits with moulds, we timed the release process and checked for any sticking or tearing. Safety was a key concern, so we monitored the temperature of containers and the stability of wick holders. Kits were also evaluated for the completeness of their contents: did they include enough wax, wicks and dyes for multiple projects, or would you need to buy extras straight away?
Customer feedback played a crucial role. We analysed over 1,900 customer reviews across major UK retailers to identify recurring issues or praise. Some kits, such as the SES Creative Casting Candles set, were highlighted for their suitability for children, while others, like the Creativ Company DIY Kit Candle Casting, received high marks for premium materials. Our scoring system balanced hands-on results with long-term user satisfaction, ensuring our recommendations are robust and relevant.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Kit Contents and Variety
Assessed the range and quality of included wax, wicks, dyes, moulds and accessories.
25%
Ease of Use
Evaluated clarity of instructions, safety features and overall beginner-friendliness.
20%
Finished Candle Quality
Judged the appearance, scent and burn consistency of the candles produced.
15%
Value for Money
Compared price to the number and quality of candles that could be made from each kit.
10%
Giftability and Packaging
Considered presentation, gift suitability and storage options.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.1 point gap between House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making (9.1) and Shuttle Art DIY Candle Making Kit (8). The deciding factors were the superior range of moulds and wax types in the House of Crafts set, as well as clearer instructions and more reliable wick holders. While Shuttle Art's kit is attractively packaged for gifting, it fell short on the variety of included materials and the ease of releasing finished candles from the moulds.
Independence and transparency
Testix.co.uk operates independently of manufacturers and retailers. Our editorial team purchases or borrows products anonymously, and no brand has input into our reviews or rankings. All opinions and scores are based on our own testing and analysis.
Some links in our articles may be affiliate links. This means we may receive a small commission if you click through and make a purchase, but this does not affect the price you pay or our editorial decisions. Our recommendations are driven solely by product performance and value.
The House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making kit is the best candle making kit for under £20. It delivers a well-balanced mix of quality, quantity and usability at a price point that suits most budgets. With 800g of soy wax, three reusable moulds and three dye blocks, it covers the basics for anyone looking to get started without overspending.
Looking at the specs, this House of Crafts candle making set includes a glass thermometer with 1°C accuracy, three wick holders and a stainless steel pouring jug. The kit is suitable for ages 14 and up, and the process takes around two hours from start to finish. While you do not get scent oils, the instructions are clear and in English, making it accessible for beginners.
Compared to the SES Creative Casting Candles kit at £13.99, which offers 350g of paraffin blend wax and two moulds, the House of Crafts kit provides more wax and an extra mould for just a few pounds more. The Creativ Company DIY Kit Candle Casting, at £27.95, is a premium option with more moulds and extras, but it sits well above the £20 mark.
For those seeking value and a complete starter experience, the House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making kit is our top pick under £20. It strikes the right balance between affordability and a comprehensive set of tools for creative candle making at home.
House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making vs SES Creative Casting Candles
Between House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making and SES Creative Casting Candles, the House of Crafts kit is the better all-rounder for teens and adults, while SES Creative is best for younger children. House of Crafts offers more wax, more moulds and a sturdier pouring jug, which makes it suitable for longer-term use and larger batches.
House of Crafts provides 800g of soy wax, three moulds, a glass thermometer and a stainless steel jug. SES Creative includes 350g of paraffin blend wax, two moulds, a protective mat and multilingual instructions with diagrams. The House of Crafts kit is aimed at ages 14+, while SES Creative is designed for children aged 5 and up, making it safer for supervised kids’ projects.
Price-wise, House of Crafts costs £17.49 and SES Creative is £13.99. For a little extra, House of Crafts gives you more wax and equipment, but SES Creative’s lower price and child-friendly design make it appealing for families. Creativ Company DIY Kit Candle Casting, at £27.95, is more advanced and less suitable for young children.
If you want a kit for creative teens or adults, House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making is the better choice. For supervised activities with younger children, SES Creative Casting Candles is the safer and more accessible option.
Which candle making kit is best for small batch crafting?
The Shuttle Art DIY Candle Making Kit is the best choice for small batch crafting. It offers a manageable quantity of soy wax, four moulds and a selection of five dye colours, making it ideal for those who want to experiment with a few candles at a time rather than committing to a large batch.
This Shuttle Art candle starter kit includes 900g of soy wax, four reusable moulds, a 500ml stainless steel pouring jug and four wick holders. Decorative labels and ribbons are also provided, which is handy if you plan to gift your creations. The instructions are in English and the kit is suitable for ages 10 and up, with a box weight of 1.2kg.
Other options include the House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making kit (£17.49, 800g wax, three moulds) and the Creativ Company DIY Kit Candle Casting (£27.95, 1kg wax, five moulds). However, Shuttle Art’s balance of wax quantity and moulds, plus the inclusion of decorative extras, makes it particularly suited to small, creative projects or trial runs.
For crafters who want flexibility and a kit that does not overwhelm with bulk supplies, Shuttle Art DIY Candle Making Kit is our recommendation for small batch candle making.
Is the House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making worth £17.49?
Yes, the House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making kit is worth £17.49 for beginners and hobbyists seeking a reliable, all-in-one set. It offers a generous amount of soy wax, three moulds and essential tools, providing good value for the price.
The kit contains 800g of soy wax, three dye blocks, three moulds, a glass thermometer with 1°C accuracy, three wick holders and a stainless steel pouring jug. Instructions are in English and the kit is suitable for ages 14 and up. The total process time is about two hours, which is manageable for most users.
For comparison, SES Creative Casting Candles is cheaper at £13.99 but includes only 350g of wax and two moulds, while the Creativ Company DIY Kit Candle Casting is more expensive at £27.95 but offers more moulds and fragrance oil. Shuttle Art DIY Candle Making Kit, at £29.77, is aimed at gifting and includes decorative extras.
Given the quality of the components and the quantity of wax provided, House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making is a solid investment for those starting out or looking for a creative candle kit under £20.
Common mistakes when buying candle making kit
1
Overlooking age suitability
Many buyers do not check the recommended age range for each candle making kit. For example, SES Creative Casting Candles is designed for children as young as five, while House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making is suitable for ages 14 and up. Picking the wrong kit can lead to frustration or safety concerns, so match the kit to the user’s age and experience.
2
Assuming all kits include scent oils
Not every candle making set comes with fragrance oils. The Creativ Company DIY Kit Candle Casting includes a 10ml fragrance oil, but House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making and SES Creative Casting Candles do not. If scented candles are important to you, check the contents list before buying.
3
Ignoring wax type and quantity
Wax type and quantity vary widely between kits. For example, House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making provides 800g of soy wax, while SES Creative Casting Candles offers 350g of paraffin blend. Make sure the kit you choose matches your preferred wax type and the number of candles you want to make.
4
Forgetting about mould reusability
Some assume all moulds are reusable, but materials and durability differ. The Creativ Company DIY Kit Candle Casting uses silicone moulds that are easy to clean and reuse, while SES Creative Casting Candles includes simpler plastic moulds. If you plan to make multiple batches, check mould quality and reusability.
Frequently asked questions about candle making kit
Does the Shuttle Art DIY Candle Making Kit include a pouring jug and how big is it?
+
Yes, the Shuttle Art DIY Candle Making Kit comes with a 500ml stainless steel pouring jug. This is a practical size for melting and pouring up to 900g of soy wax included in the kit. The jug is sturdy and easy to clean, making it suitable for repeated use. Compared to some smaller jugs in other kits, this one allows you to work with larger batches or multiple candles at once.
Can you use the Creativ Company DIY Kit Candle Casting for home décor projects?
+
Yes, the Creativ Company DIY Kit Candle Casting is well-suited for home décor projects. The kit includes five silicone moulds and six dye colours, allowing you to create candles in various shapes and shades to match your interior style. With 1kg of soy wax and a 600ml aluminium pouring jug, you can produce several decorative candles in one session. The addition of fragrance oil means your candles can look and smell great in any room.
What is included in the SES Creative Casting Candles kit?
+
The SES Creative Casting Candles kit contains 350g of paraffin blend wax, two moulds, three dye blocks, two wick holders, a protective mat and multilingual instructions with diagrams. There is no pouring jug, so you will need to use a heatproof container from your kitchen. The kit is designed for children aged five and up, making it a good option for supervised creative activities.
Is there a candle making kit with gel wax available?
+
Yes, the Mould Master Candle Making Gel Wax 500g is available for those who want to experiment with gel wax. This product provides 500g of transparent gel wax, which is ideal for creating unique, see-through candles. While it is not a complete starter set, you can pair it with separate moulds and wicks for creative projects. Gel wax is popular for embedding decorations and creating layered effects.
Which kit is best for a birthday party activity for kids?
+
The SES Creative Casting Candles kit is the best choice for a birthday party activity for kids. It is designed for ages five and up, includes colourful dye blocks and comes with clear, illustrated instructions. With two moulds and a protective mat, it is safe and manageable for group use under adult supervision. The kit’s lower price also makes it suitable for party settings where multiple kits may be needed.
Does the House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making kit have wooden wick holders?
+
No, the House of Crafts Giant Creative Candle Making kit includes three standard wick holders, but they are not wooden. If you specifically want wooden wick holders, you will need to purchase them separately, such as the Shein 10pcs Wooden Candle Wick Holder. The included holders in the House of Crafts kit are functional and reusable for most basic candle projects.
Can you create multicolour candles with the Shuttle Art DIY Candle Making Kit?
+
Yes, you can create multicolour candles with the Shuttle Art DIY Candle Making Kit. The set comes with five dye colours, allowing you to mix and layer shades for creative effects. The included instructions provide guidance on blending colours, so you can experiment with different combinations. This feature makes the kit appealing for those who want to personalise their candles.
Is the Creativ Company DIY Kit Candle Casting suitable for creative teens?
+
Yes, the Creativ Company DIY Kit Candle Casting is ideal for creative teens. It offers five silicone moulds, six dye colours and a 10ml fragrance oil, giving plenty of scope for experimentation. The kit is recommended for ages 12 and up, and the instructions are available in English and Danish. Teens who enjoy crafts or want to make personalised gifts will find this set engaging and flexible.
Other candle making kit included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 4
Mould Master Candle Making Gel Wax 500g£8.93Colour: Transparent
Candle Wick for Paraffin 100m 100g£15.95Colour: White
Candle Wick for Stearin 80m 100g£15.95Colour: White
