Microcrystalline Wax 70°
Microcrystalline Wax 70°
Microcrystalline Wax 70° (Speciality Additive and Dipping Wax)
Microcrystalline Wax 70° is a firm but flexible petroleum wax with a higher melting point and a finer crystal structure than standard paraffin. It is used to help candles hold their shape, resist cracking and bond between layers, and it is the wax of choice for overdipping and cut-and-carve candles. You can use it on its own for speciality work or blend it into paraffin to improve flexibility, adhesion and surface finish.
We supply it from Kaiapoi, Christchurch, in sizes from 1 kg up to 25 kg, and it is 100% microcrystalline wax with no added fragrance or dye. Every order is backed by a Specifications sheet, Safety Data Sheet, Ingredient Statement and Quick Guide, all linked in the Product Documents section below.
|
Firm and flexible Holds shape, resists cracking |
Higher melting Than standard paraffin |
Blend at 1-10% Into paraffin, test first |
Dip, carve and blend Speciality candle work |
Safety information: for full hazard, handling and safety information, please see the Safety Data Sheet in the Product Documents section below.
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product | Microcrystalline Wax 70° |
| Type | Microcrystalline wax for candle blending, overdipping and carving |
| Composition | Microcrystalline wax, 100%. Petroleum-derived. CAS 64742-42-3. No added fragrance or dye |
| Appearance | Light pink solid wax |
| Grade | 70° |
| Melting Point | Not specified by the manufacturer. Higher melting than standard paraffin, as is typical for microcrystalline wax. Ask us if you need a figure |
| Description | Mainly C31-C70 branched saturated hydrocarbons with a small amount of cyclic and straight-chain hydrocarbons. Odourless and tasteless |
| Melting Step | Melt slowly in a double boiler or other controlled heat. Do not heat above 100 °C |
| Typical Blend Rate | About 1-10% of the blend weight in paraffin. Many makers start at 1-5%. Always test |
| Best Suited For | Additive for paraffin pillars and layered candles, overdipping, and cut-and-carve candles |
| Wick Guidance | ECO wicks, sized for the finished candle. Blends can burn slower, so test and go up a size if needed |
| Pack Sizes | 1 kg, 2 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, 25 kg |
| Storage | Cool, dry place, sealed, away from heat and sunlight |
| Shelf Life | No fixed expiry. Stable when stored as directed |
| Use | Candle making only. Not for food, cosmetic or topical use |
How to Blend Microcrystalline Wax into a Pillar Candle
- Prepare the mould. Use a clean, dry mould. Thread the wick through, seal the wick hole, and pull the wick taut and centred with a metal wick holder or bar across the top.
- Weigh. Weigh your main wax (such as Paraffin Wax), then weigh the microcrystalline wax at about 1-10% of the total. Start low and work up.
- Melt together. Melt both waxes slowly in a double boiler or other controlled heat, stirring until completely mixed and clear. Do not go above 100 °C. Add candle dye now if you are using it. Never heat wax directly over a flame or leave it unattended.
- Add fragrance. Take the wax off the heat and add fragrance oil at the load recommended for your main wax. Check the flash point of your fragrance oil and stir gently.
- Pour. Pour at the pour temperature recommended for your main wax, slowly and near the wick. For layered candles, let each layer cool slightly before adding the next so the layers bond.
- Top up. Wax shrinks as it cools. If a dip forms, pour a small top-up before the candle is fully cool.
- Cool and release. Let the candle cool completely, often 12 to 24 hours. Release it gently, trim the wick to about 5 mm and wait 48 hours before a test burn.
Tip: always make a small test candle first. Blend ratios change the melt point, hardness and burn, so test each new blend.
What Is Microcrystalline Wax? ▼
Microcrystalline wax is a refined petroleum wax. Unlike paraffin, which sets in larger, brittle crystals, microcrystalline wax sets in very fine crystals. This makes it tougher, more flexible and slightly tacky, with a higher melting point.
Those properties are why candle makers use it as an additive: it helps layers stick together, reduces cracking and mottling, and makes pillars hold their shape. On its own it suits overdipping and cut-and-carve candles. The description is listed in the specifications above.
Good to know: microcrystalline wax is petroleum-derived, so it is not a plant-based or natural wax. It is firm and slightly sticky, so it is not suited to use on its own as a container or wax melt wax.
Choosing the Right Wax ▼
| Candle type | Wax to use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Layered and multi-colour pillars | Paraffin Wax with a small amount of Microcrystalline Wax 70° (this wax) | Helps layers bond and reduces cracking. |
| Overdipped pillars and tapers | Microcrystalline Wax 70° (this wax) | A firm outer shell that improves burn and reduces dripping. |
| Cut-and-carve candles | Microcrystalline Wax 70° (this wax) blended with paraffin | Flexible enough to cut and curl while it is still warm. |
| Smooth plain pillars | Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax (Pillar Blend) 58° | No additive needed. The soy pillar blend is a plant-based option. |
| Crystal-pattern pillars | Crystal Palm Wax | Use a different wax for a different look. Test before adding any microcrystalline wax. |
| Higher-melting grade | Microcrystalline Wax 80° | Published dropping point 77-82 °C. Same uses. |
| Container candles and wax melts | Golden Brands 464, Natural Soy Wax Flakes 50°C or Coco Soy Blended Wax | Softer waxes that suit jars and melts better. |
Uses & Project Ideas ▼
Pillar candle additive
Add a small percentage to paraffin for a tougher, more flexible candle that resists cracking and holds its shape out of the mould.
Layered and multi-colour candles
The slightly tacky structure helps each coloured layer stick to the one below. Let each layer cool slightly before pouring the next.
Overdipping
Dip finished pillars or tapers in melted microcrystalline wax for a smooth, firm outer shell. Keep the wax in a deep dipping can at a steady temperature, dip quickly and steadily, and test the temperature on a spare candle. Hotter wax melts the candle surface, and cooler wax gives a thicker coat.
Cut-and-carve candles
Dip a candle in coloured wax, then cut and curl the shell while it is still warm and flexible to make carved designs. Test your blend and timing on a spare candle first.
Moulded and sculpted candles
Add a small amount to paraffin for decorative moulded candles that need extra strength. Browse our candle moulds.
Fragrance, Colour & Additive Guide ▼
These are starting points, not fixed rules. Always test a small batch, and follow the safety information for each fragrance oil and dye you use.
| Add-in | Starting point | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fragrance oil | Follow the load for your main wax | Microcrystalline wax is usually a small part of the blend, so use the fragrance load recommended for the main wax. Use fragrance oil made for candles, add it off the heat and stir gently. |
| Liquid candle dye | A few drops at a time | Add to the melted wax and stir until dissolved. Wax looks darker when liquid than when set. Browse our liquid candle dyes. |
| Dye chips | Follow the chip supplier's guidance | Add to the melted wax and stir until fully dissolved. Browse our candle dye chips. |
| Other additives | Test first | Anything not made for candles can affect the burn, so test a small candle before using it. |
Blending Ideas ▼
These are starting points only and have not been tested by PureFX, so test a small batch first.
| Main wax | Microcrystalline Wax 70° | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Paraffin Wax | About 1-10% of the blend | Helps layers bond, reduces cracking and makes the candle tougher. Start at 1-5% and work up. |
| Crystal Palm Wax | Test small amounts | Added wax can change the crystal pattern, so test before making a batch. |
| Soy waxes | Test small amounts | Blending with a petroleum wax means the finished candle is not plant-based or 100% soy. |
Blend ratios change the melt point, hardness, pour temperature and wicking, so always burn test a blend before selling candles made with it.
Wick Guide ▼
Wick size is the most important choice in a candle. These are starting points only, as the right wick depends on the finished candle, fragrance and dye. A blend that contains microcrystalline wax has a higher melt point and can burn slower. Always burn test, then adjust one size at a time.
| Item | Where to start | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ECO wicks | Match the wick to the pillar diameter: 45-70 mm, 75-90 mm or 90-105 mm, then go up a size if the flame is small | Woven from cotton and paper threads, which gives a stiff, easy-to-handle wick. Go up a size if the flame is small or the candle tunnels, down if the flame is large or sooty. |
| Wick holders and wick stickers | One per wick | Keeps the wick taut and centred while the wax sets. A centred wick burns evenly. |
| Wick trimmer | Before every burn | Trim to about 5 mm for a steady flame. |
Troubleshooting ▼
| Problem | Likely cause | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Layers separate | Layer too cool or too hot when the next is poured | Let each layer cool slightly before pouring the next, and add a little more microcrystalline wax to the blend. |
| Cracks in a pillar | Wax cooling too fast | Cool slowly, away from draughts, and try a small amount of microcrystalline wax in the blend. |
| Dip or sunken top | Wax shrinks as it sets | Pour a small top-up before the candle is fully cool. Large pillars may need two top-ups. |
| Overdip coat is thin or uneven | Dipping wax too hot | Lower the temperature slightly and dip quickly and steadily. Test on a spare candle. |
| Overdip coat is lumpy or thick | Dipping wax too cool | Raise the temperature slightly and test on a spare candle. |
| Tunnelling or small flame | Blend is firmer, so the wick is too small | Try the next wick size up. |
| Large flame or soot | Wick too large or fragrance load too high | Try the next wick size down and trim to 5 mm. |
| Wax is too sticky or hard to release | Too much microcrystalline wax | Reduce the amount in the blend. |
Sizes & Price per kg
| Size | Price | Price per kg |
|---|---|---|
| 1 kg | $13.00 | $13.00 |
| 2 kg | $24.00 | $12.00 |
| 5 kg | $58.00 | $11.60 |
| 10 kg | $112.00 | $11.20 |
| 25 kg | $260.00 | $10.40 |
Burn Safety & Selling Your Candles ▼
Never leave a burning candle unattended. Burn pillars on a heat-resistant plate, away from children, pets, draughts and anything flammable. Trim the wick to about 5 mm before each burn.
Molten wax and the pots it is heated in can burn badly. Keep melting wax away from children and pets, never heat it over a direct flame, and do not heat it above 100 °C. Wear heat-resistant gloves, have a lid or damp cloth nearby for emergencies, and do not use water on a wax fire.
Selling your candles? Your labels should include safe-burning warnings and any hazard or allergen information required for the fragrance oil you use. Use the Ingredient Statement and Safety Data Sheet below together with the safety data for everything you add.
Frequently Asked Questions ▼
Is this the same as paraffin wax?
No. It is a related petroleum wax, but it sets in much finer crystals, which makes it tougher, more flexible and slightly tacky, with a higher melting point.
What is it used for?
Mainly as an additive in paraffin candles to help layers bond and reduce cracking, and on its own for overdipping and cut-and-carve candles.
How much should I add to paraffin?
About 1-10% of the blend weight. Many makers start at 1-5%. Always test, as the amount changes hardness, burn and wicking.
Can I use it on its own?
Yes, for overdipping and carving. It is not designed as a stand-alone wax for pillars, containers or melts.
Can I make container candles or wax melts with it?
Not on its own. It is firm and slightly sticky. For jars and melts, see Golden Brands 464, Natural Soy Wax Flakes 50°C or Coco Soy Blended Wax.
What temperature should I melt it at?
Melt slowly and keep it below 100 °C. When blending, pour at the temperature recommended for your main wax.
Which wick should I use?
It depends on the finished candle. See the Wick Guide above for ECO wick starting points, and always burn test, as blends can burn slower.
What is the melting point?
The manufacturer does not state a melting point for this grade. Ask us if you need more detail. If you need a published figure, our Microcrystalline Wax 80° has a dropping point of 77 °C or higher and below 82 °C.
Is it natural, vegan or plant-based?
No. Microcrystalline wax is made from petroleum. For a plant-based wax, see our soy waxes.
How should I store it?
Keep it sealed in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight.
Where is it made?
Ask us if you need origin information.
Pairs Well With
Blend this wax into Paraffin Wax for tougher, layered pillars. Add fragrance oils for scent and a wick from our ECO wicks. Cast in our candle moulds, hold the wick with wick holders or wick stickers, and add colour with liquid candle dyes or dye chips. Finish candles with a wick trimmer. See all candle making accessories. |
Product Documents
|
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Microcrystalline Wax 70° (Speciality Additive and Dipping Wax)
Microcrystalline Wax 70° is a firm but flexible petroleum wax with a higher melting point and a finer crystal structure than standard paraffin. It is used to help candles hold their shape, resist cracking and bond between layers, and it is the wax of choice for overdipping and cut-and-carve candles. You can use it on its own for speciality work or blend it into paraffin to improve flexibility, adhesion and surface finish.
We supply it from Kaiapoi, Christchurch, in sizes from 1 kg up to 25 kg, and it is 100% microcrystalline wax with no added fragrance or dye. Every order is backed by a Specifications sheet, Safety Data Sheet, Ingredient Statement and Quick Guide, all linked in the Product Documents section below.
|
Firm and flexible Holds shape, resists cracking |
Higher melting Than standard paraffin |
Blend at 1-10% Into paraffin, test first |
Dip, carve and blend Speciality candle work |
Safety information: for full hazard, handling and safety information, please see the Safety Data Sheet in the Product Documents section below.
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product | Microcrystalline Wax 70° |
| Type | Microcrystalline wax for candle blending, overdipping and carving |
| Composition | Microcrystalline wax, 100%. Petroleum-derived. CAS 64742-42-3. No added fragrance or dye |
| Appearance | Light pink solid wax |
| Grade | 70° |
| Melting Point | Not specified by the manufacturer. Higher melting than standard paraffin, as is typical for microcrystalline wax. Ask us if you need a figure |
| Description | Mainly C31-C70 branched saturated hydrocarbons with a small amount of cyclic and straight-chain hydrocarbons. Odourless and tasteless |
| Melting Step | Melt slowly in a double boiler or other controlled heat. Do not heat above 100 °C |
| Typical Blend Rate | About 1-10% of the blend weight in paraffin. Many makers start at 1-5%. Always test |
| Best Suited For | Additive for paraffin pillars and layered candles, overdipping, and cut-and-carve candles |
| Wick Guidance | ECO wicks, sized for the finished candle. Blends can burn slower, so test and go up a size if needed |
| Pack Sizes | 1 kg, 2 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, 25 kg |
| Storage | Cool, dry place, sealed, away from heat and sunlight |
| Shelf Life | No fixed expiry. Stable when stored as directed |
| Use | Candle making only. Not for food, cosmetic or topical use |
How to Blend Microcrystalline Wax into a Pillar Candle
- Prepare the mould. Use a clean, dry mould. Thread the wick through, seal the wick hole, and pull the wick taut and centred with a metal wick holder or bar across the top.
- Weigh. Weigh your main wax (such as Paraffin Wax), then weigh the microcrystalline wax at about 1-10% of the total. Start low and work up.
- Melt together. Melt both waxes slowly in a double boiler or other controlled heat, stirring until completely mixed and clear. Do not go above 100 °C. Add candle dye now if you are using it. Never heat wax directly over a flame or leave it unattended.
- Add fragrance. Take the wax off the heat and add fragrance oil at the load recommended for your main wax. Check the flash point of your fragrance oil and stir gently.
- Pour. Pour at the pour temperature recommended for your main wax, slowly and near the wick. For layered candles, let each layer cool slightly before adding the next so the layers bond.
- Top up. Wax shrinks as it cools. If a dip forms, pour a small top-up before the candle is fully cool.
- Cool and release. Let the candle cool completely, often 12 to 24 hours. Release it gently, trim the wick to about 5 mm and wait 48 hours before a test burn.
Tip: always make a small test candle first. Blend ratios change the melt point, hardness and burn, so test each new blend.
What Is Microcrystalline Wax? ▼
Microcrystalline wax is a refined petroleum wax. Unlike paraffin, which sets in larger, brittle crystals, microcrystalline wax sets in very fine crystals. This makes it tougher, more flexible and slightly tacky, with a higher melting point.
Those properties are why candle makers use it as an additive: it helps layers stick together, reduces cracking and mottling, and makes pillars hold their shape. On its own it suits overdipping and cut-and-carve candles. The description is listed in the specifications above.
Good to know: microcrystalline wax is petroleum-derived, so it is not a plant-based or natural wax. It is firm and slightly sticky, so it is not suited to use on its own as a container or wax melt wax.
Choosing the Right Wax ▼
| Candle type | Wax to use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Layered and multi-colour pillars | Paraffin Wax with a small amount of Microcrystalline Wax 70° (this wax) | Helps layers bond and reduces cracking. |
| Overdipped pillars and tapers | Microcrystalline Wax 70° (this wax) | A firm outer shell that improves burn and reduces dripping. |
| Cut-and-carve candles | Microcrystalline Wax 70° (this wax) blended with paraffin | Flexible enough to cut and curl while it is still warm. |
| Smooth plain pillars | Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax (Pillar Blend) 58° | No additive needed. The soy pillar blend is a plant-based option. |
| Crystal-pattern pillars | Crystal Palm Wax | Use a different wax for a different look. Test before adding any microcrystalline wax. |
| Higher-melting grade | Microcrystalline Wax 80° | Published dropping point 77-82 °C. Same uses. |
| Container candles and wax melts | Golden Brands 464, Natural Soy Wax Flakes 50°C or Coco Soy Blended Wax | Softer waxes that suit jars and melts better. |
Uses & Project Ideas ▼
Pillar candle additive
Add a small percentage to paraffin for a tougher, more flexible candle that resists cracking and holds its shape out of the mould.
Layered and multi-colour candles
The slightly tacky structure helps each coloured layer stick to the one below. Let each layer cool slightly before pouring the next.
Overdipping
Dip finished pillars or tapers in melted microcrystalline wax for a smooth, firm outer shell. Keep the wax in a deep dipping can at a steady temperature, dip quickly and steadily, and test the temperature on a spare candle. Hotter wax melts the candle surface, and cooler wax gives a thicker coat.
Cut-and-carve candles
Dip a candle in coloured wax, then cut and curl the shell while it is still warm and flexible to make carved designs. Test your blend and timing on a spare candle first.
Moulded and sculpted candles
Add a small amount to paraffin for decorative moulded candles that need extra strength. Browse our candle moulds.
Fragrance, Colour & Additive Guide ▼
These are starting points, not fixed rules. Always test a small batch, and follow the safety information for each fragrance oil and dye you use.
| Add-in | Starting point | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fragrance oil | Follow the load for your main wax | Microcrystalline wax is usually a small part of the blend, so use the fragrance load recommended for the main wax. Use fragrance oil made for candles, add it off the heat and stir gently. |
| Liquid candle dye | A few drops at a time | Add to the melted wax and stir until dissolved. Wax looks darker when liquid than when set. Browse our liquid candle dyes. |
| Dye chips | Follow the chip supplier's guidance | Add to the melted wax and stir until fully dissolved. Browse our candle dye chips. |
| Other additives | Test first | Anything not made for candles can affect the burn, so test a small candle before using it. |
Blending Ideas ▼
These are starting points only and have not been tested by PureFX, so test a small batch first.
| Main wax | Microcrystalline Wax 70° | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Paraffin Wax | About 1-10% of the blend | Helps layers bond, reduces cracking and makes the candle tougher. Start at 1-5% and work up. |
| Crystal Palm Wax | Test small amounts | Added wax can change the crystal pattern, so test before making a batch. |
| Soy waxes | Test small amounts | Blending with a petroleum wax means the finished candle is not plant-based or 100% soy. |
Blend ratios change the melt point, hardness, pour temperature and wicking, so always burn test a blend before selling candles made with it.
Wick Guide ▼
Wick size is the most important choice in a candle. These are starting points only, as the right wick depends on the finished candle, fragrance and dye. A blend that contains microcrystalline wax has a higher melt point and can burn slower. Always burn test, then adjust one size at a time.
| Item | Where to start | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ECO wicks | Match the wick to the pillar diameter: 45-70 mm, 75-90 mm or 90-105 mm, then go up a size if the flame is small | Woven from cotton and paper threads, which gives a stiff, easy-to-handle wick. Go up a size if the flame is small or the candle tunnels, down if the flame is large or sooty. |
| Wick holders and wick stickers | One per wick | Keeps the wick taut and centred while the wax sets. A centred wick burns evenly. |
| Wick trimmer | Before every burn | Trim to about 5 mm for a steady flame. |
Troubleshooting ▼
| Problem | Likely cause | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Layers separate | Layer too cool or too hot when the next is poured | Let each layer cool slightly before pouring the next, and add a little more microcrystalline wax to the blend. |
| Cracks in a pillar | Wax cooling too fast | Cool slowly, away from draughts, and try a small amount of microcrystalline wax in the blend. |
| Dip or sunken top | Wax shrinks as it sets | Pour a small top-up before the candle is fully cool. Large pillars may need two top-ups. |
| Overdip coat is thin or uneven | Dipping wax too hot | Lower the temperature slightly and dip quickly and steadily. Test on a spare candle. |
| Overdip coat is lumpy or thick | Dipping wax too cool | Raise the temperature slightly and test on a spare candle. |
| Tunnelling or small flame | Blend is firmer, so the wick is too small | Try the next wick size up. |
| Large flame or soot | Wick too large or fragrance load too high | Try the next wick size down and trim to 5 mm. |
| Wax is too sticky or hard to release | Too much microcrystalline wax | Reduce the amount in the blend. |
Sizes & Price per kg
| Size | Price | Price per kg |
|---|---|---|
| 1 kg | $13.00 | $13.00 |
| 2 kg | $24.00 | $12.00 |
| 5 kg | $58.00 | $11.60 |
| 10 kg | $112.00 | $11.20 |
| 25 kg | $260.00 | $10.40 |
Burn Safety & Selling Your Candles ▼
Never leave a burning candle unattended. Burn pillars on a heat-resistant plate, away from children, pets, draughts and anything flammable. Trim the wick to about 5 mm before each burn.
Molten wax and the pots it is heated in can burn badly. Keep melting wax away from children and pets, never heat it over a direct flame, and do not heat it above 100 °C. Wear heat-resistant gloves, have a lid or damp cloth nearby for emergencies, and do not use water on a wax fire.
Selling your candles? Your labels should include safe-burning warnings and any hazard or allergen information required for the fragrance oil you use. Use the Ingredient Statement and Safety Data Sheet below together with the safety data for everything you add.
Frequently Asked Questions ▼
Is this the same as paraffin wax?
No. It is a related petroleum wax, but it sets in much finer crystals, which makes it tougher, more flexible and slightly tacky, with a higher melting point.
What is it used for?
Mainly as an additive in paraffin candles to help layers bond and reduce cracking, and on its own for overdipping and cut-and-carve candles.
How much should I add to paraffin?
About 1-10% of the blend weight. Many makers start at 1-5%. Always test, as the amount changes hardness, burn and wicking.
Can I use it on its own?
Yes, for overdipping and carving. It is not designed as a stand-alone wax for pillars, containers or melts.
Can I make container candles or wax melts with it?
Not on its own. It is firm and slightly sticky. For jars and melts, see Golden Brands 464, Natural Soy Wax Flakes 50°C or Coco Soy Blended Wax.
What temperature should I melt it at?
Melt slowly and keep it below 100 °C. When blending, pour at the temperature recommended for your main wax.
Which wick should I use?
It depends on the finished candle. See the Wick Guide above for ECO wick starting points, and always burn test, as blends can burn slower.
What is the melting point?
The manufacturer does not state a melting point for this grade. Ask us if you need more detail. If you need a published figure, our Microcrystalline Wax 80° has a dropping point of 77 °C or higher and below 82 °C.
Is it natural, vegan or plant-based?
No. Microcrystalline wax is made from petroleum. For a plant-based wax, see our soy waxes.
How should I store it?
Keep it sealed in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight.
Where is it made?
Ask us if you need origin information.
Pairs Well With
Blend this wax into Paraffin Wax for tougher, layered pillars. Add fragrance oils for scent and a wick from our ECO wicks. Cast in our candle moulds, hold the wick with wick holders or wick stickers, and add colour with liquid candle dyes or dye chips. Finish candles with a wick trimmer. See all candle making accessories. |
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Product Documents
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