How to Manufacture Candles in the USA with American Glass and Wax

With Shopify recently launching the “buy local” option there’s even more reason to “go local” and make 100% made in America candles. With a “Made in America” label your candles will glide to the top when Americans are using the new “shop local” feature.

Not only does manufacturing your candles domestically ensure better quality control, but it also helps you avoid supply chain disruptions, long shipping times, and fluctuating international tariffs. Plus, with rising consumer demand for ethically sourced, clean-burning candles, positioning your brand as truly “Made in the USA” sets you apart from competitors who rely on overseas production.

If you’re ready to ditch dropshipping or move away from imported materials, this guide will walk you through exactly how to manufacture candles in the U.S. using 100% American-made materials—from glass jars to wax, wicks, and fragrance oils.

Step 1: Sourcing 100% U.S.-Made Glass Jars

Your candle jar isn’t just a container—it’s part of the branding, aesthetic, and customer experience. Most glass candle containers are imported from China or Europe, so sourcing American-made glass is a key differentiator.

Where to Find U.S.-Made Candle Jars

These companies manufacture their glass containers entirely in the U.S.:

1. Anchor Hocking (Ohio) – Produces high-quality glass jars and containers in their Ohio-based factory.
2. Arkansas Glass Container Corp. (Arkansas) – A family-owned company specializing in durable glass for candles.
3. O-I Glass (Owens-Illinois) (Ohio) – One of the largest U.S.-based glass manufacturers with multiple production plants.
4. Verallia North America – Known for premium glass manufacturing with U.S.-based production.
5. Pairpoint Glass (Massachusetts) – America’s oldest glass company, making hand-crafted glass candle holders.

Pro Tip: Many large U.S. glass manufacturers don’t sell directly to small businesses, but you can find their jars through distributors like Fillmore Container or U.S. Packaging & Wrapping.

Step 2: Choosing 100% U.S.-Made Candle Wax

The wax you use determines burn quality, scent throw, and sustainability. Many candle brands rely on cheap paraffin from overseas, but American-made soy, beeswax, and coconut wax offer a cleaner, more eco-friendly burn.

Where to Find U.S.-Made Candle Wax

1. American Soy Organics – Produces 100% U.S.-grown soy wax for candles.
2. Cargill NatureWax – A leading supplier of premium soy and coconut wax blends made in the U.S.
3. Golden Brands – A top-tier soy wax manufacturer based in the U.S.
4. S&S Wax Refining – Specializes in U.S.-produced paraffin and natural waxes.
5. Aloha Bay – Produces sustainable palm wax for candles in California.
6. Beeswax Co. – A Texas-based supplier of pure American beeswax.
7. Bluecorn Beeswax – Handcrafted, ethically sourced U.S. beeswax.
8. Hearts & Flowers Primitives – Supplies U.S.-made beeswax blocks for candle makers.
9. Bayberry Candle Supply – Provides authentic U.S.-grown bayberry wax.
10. Coconut Wax U.S. – A supplier of sustainable U.S.-processed coconut wax.

Step 3: Finding U.S.-Made Candle Wicks

Not all candle wicks are created equal. Some contain lead or other toxins, so sourcing from trusted American manufacturers ensures a safer, cleaner burn.

Where to Buy U.S.-Made Wicks

1. Wedo Wicks – One of the largest U.S.-based wick manufacturers with eco-friendly options.
2. Candlewic – Offers a variety of U.S.-made cotton and wooden wicks.
3. NorthWood Candle – Sells eco-friendly U.S.-produced wooden wicks.
4. American Candle Supplies – Specializes in domestically made wicks and wax.
5. Sustained Wick Co. – Focuses on sustainable, natural wicks made in the USA.

Step 4: Choosing American-Made Fragrance Oils & Essential Oils

Sourcing fragrance oils from the U.S. means higher quality, better regulation, and reduced exposure to harmful additives.

Where to Buy U.S.-Made Candle Fragrances

1. The Flaming Candle – High-quality, U.S.-made fragrance oils for candle makers.
2. Virginia Candle Supply – Provides premium domestic essential and fragrance oils.
3. Nature’s Garden Candles – One of the largest U.S.-based fragrance oil suppliers.
4. Lebermuth – Specializes in natural essential oils made in the U.S..
5. Midwest Fragrance Co. – Offers a wide selection of American-made, non-toxic fragrances.

Final Thoughts: Why Making Candles in the U.S. Is a Smart Move

Transitioning from dropshipping to manufacturing your own candles is a powerful brand differentiator. Consumers are willing to pay more for high-quality, ethically sourced products, and a truly “Made in the USA” candle brand can command higher prices and stronger customer loyalty.

By sourcing glass jars, wax, wicks, and fragrances from U.S. manufacturers, you:
– Ensure better product quality
– Reduce supply chain risks
– Support American businesses and jobs
– Appeal to eco-conscious and patriotic consumers

If you’re serious about building a premium candle brand, start sourcing your materials from U.S. manufacturers today—and watch your business grow in ways dropshipping never could.

Are you making the switch to U.S.-made candles? Drop a comment below and share your journey!