Increasingly popular with artisans and lovers of natural crafts, rapeseed wax has become a go-to material for making beautiful, high-performing candles that are kind to the environment. Derived from rapeseed oil, it is 100% plant-based, biodegradable and mostly produced in Europe, which considerably reduces its carbon footprint. Free from GMOs, palm oil and paraffin, it is a much sought-after sustainable alternative. It is, however, slightly more technical to work with and is best suited to makers who already have some candle-making experience.
If you're just starting out, we recommend working with soy wax.
Where rapeseed wax comes from and how it is made
Rapeseed, a member of the brassica family, has been grown since ancient times, notably in China. Introduced to Europe in the 18th century, it is now widely cultivated using sustainable farming practices. France is Europe's second-largest producer after Germany. The wax is obtained by hydrogenating the oil, a process that gives it a uniform, supple texture perfectly suited to moulded candles, container candles, scented wax melts and cosmetic products.
The benefits of rapeseed wax for candle making
Rapeseed wax is prized for the way it balances performance with a responsible approach. Its soft texture and excellent stability make it a favourite for high-quality, ethically minded candles.
A sustainable, environmentally friendly material
Because it is mainly sourced in Europe, rapeseed wax supports short supply chains and keeps transport to a minimum. Fully biodegradable, renewable and plant-based, it fits naturally into an eco-responsible approach. Rapeseed crops support biodiversity by aiding pollination and are not linked to any deforestation.
A slow, clean and steady burn
Rapeseed wax burns slowly and cleanly, with almost no soot. It carries fragrances faithfully, holds up well over time and has a low melting point, which makes it easy to handle in a bain-marie and ensures a steady flame.
A healthy, non-toxic composition
This wax releases no toxic substances as it burns. It is vegan, GMO-free and not tested on animals. Using it helps keep indoor air healthy and free from unwanted residues.
Our main rapeseed waxes
We offer several products suited to a variety of uses, and each formula has its own strengths. This range lets you pick the wax best suited to the finish you want and the type of candle you're making.
Rapeseed wax for container candles
Made from at least 90% hydrogenated rapeseed oil and less than 10% other plant waxes to improve crystallisation, this wax adheres perfectly to container walls and gives a smooth finish along with excellent scent throw.
Rapeseed wax for moulded candles and scented wax melts
Its fine texture and soft colour make it ideal for wax melts, pebbles and moulded shapes. It releases easily from the mould and captures crisp, precise detail.
NatureWax Elite 600 rapeseed/coconut wax
Supplied in blocks, this wax combines the properties of rapeseed and coconut. Creamy and suitable for massage candles, it often needs larger wicks than paraffin. It can simply be cut with a knife, and in winter, gently warming the blade makes this easier.
Which wicks should you use with rapeseed wax?
Choosing the right wick is key to unlocking the full potential of rapeseed wax. Its particular density calls for careful selection to achieve a steady burn and an even scent throw.
Rapeseed wax for moulded candles
Spools of flat or round cotton wick are ideal. Wooden wicks also work well for their natural crackle, as do tealight wicks for tealights.
Rapeseed wax for container candles
Compatible with a wide choice of wicks: TCR, ECO, STABILO and LX series, wooden wicks, flat or round cotton wicks, and tealight wicks for tealights. As rapeseed wax is dense, you will often need a slightly thicker wick than you would for paraffin. Testing is essential to fine-tune the flame, the melt pool and the evenness of the burn.
Melting points by wax
Rapeseed wax has a fairly low melting point, which makes it particularly easy to work with. It heats up faster, melts more easily and doesn't call for high temperatures.
- Rapeseed wax for containers: 52°C to 56°C
- Rapeseed wax for moulded candles and wax melts: 57°C to 61°C
- NatureWax Elite 600 rapeseed/coconut wax: 20°C to 55°C
Colouring rapeseed wax
Rapeseed wax takes dye very well, giving soft pastel, natural-looking colours. Add the dye at around 70°C, before the fragrance, for an even result.
- Dye chips: 5%
- Liquid dye: 2%
Adding 5% stearin improves colour consistency even further.
Storing rapeseed wax
Store at room temperature, away from light, heat and moisture. Keep it in an airtight container to stop it drying out and to prevent any external contamination.
Conclusion
Choosing rapeseed wax means opting for a reliable, healthy and sustainable base for beautiful, high-performing candles. Selecting the right wicks, mastering melting points, colours and fragrance loads, and testing regularly will ensure a steady burn and a successful result. Stored properly, this plant-based wax will see you through many creative, responsible projects to come.
If you're new to making candles and scented wax melts, it's best to start with soy wax or olive wax, which are more forgiving to work with.
Discover the benefits of olive wax and how to use it.
