How to use this calculator
Use a measured finished fill mass and your tested recipe. Select the percentage convention specified by that recipe: 10% of wax and 10% of finished blend are different. Enter the wax and fragrance actually available, the order size and each supply pack’s net mass. The result compares two separate scenarios: making the maximum batch from current stock, or completing the target order after restocking. Enter 4,800 g for a 4.8 kg pack. Use mass in grams for fragrance; millilitres require its actual density.
The formula
A worked example
At 220 g finished fill and 10% fragrance by finished blend, each candle uses 198 g wax and 22 g fragrance. With 4,800 g wax and 1,000 g fragrance, make 24 candles, leaving 48 g wax and 472 g fragrance. A separate 30-candle order needs 5,940 g wax and 660 g fragrance. The wax shortage is 1,140 g: buy two 1,000 g packs. No extra fragrance is needed.
Assumptions & limitations
One candle recipe and one usable wax/fragrance stock pair. Extra preparation adds the entered percentage to both ingredient requirements; it is not a finished-product rejection rate. Target shortfalls use the original stock, not the leftovers after first making the maximum batch. Pack sizes are editable; the example prices no goods and assumes no supplier minimum order. The accepted percentage range is an arithmetic limit, not a safe fragrance recommendation. Follow the wax/fragrance specifications and test the candle. Jars, wicks, dyes, production time and failed units can further limit output.
Common questions
Can a fragrance bottle limit the batch before the wax runs out?
Yes. In the example, reducing fragrance stock to 100 g limits the batch to four complete candles. Both ingredients are checked.
What happens for unscented candles?
Set fragrance percentage to zero. Fragrance stock and fragrance purchases are ignored in the arithmetic; wax determines the available candle count.
Are 10% wax load and 10% finished blend the same?
No. A blend containing 198 g wax and 22 g fragrance is 10% fragrance by finished blend and about 11.111111% by wax. Use the basis specified in your tested recipe.
Supporting reference
The method above states this calculator’s assumptions. This reference provides related definitions and technical context.
Candle Shack: 30cl Temptress RCX recipe quantities ↗Formula and worked example checked against automated test cases. About our methodology.