Candlemakers-Toolbox
Fragrance Blending & Scent Wheel
Choose a family on the wheel to explore neighboring and contrasting scents.
Click on any segment to explore that scent family
How to use the scent wheel
Neighboring scents: Families next to each other share characteristics. For example, Amber and Woody combine warm, grounding qualities.
Contrasting scents: Opposite families create contrast. For example, Amber's resinous character contrasts with Marine's fresh, airy notes.
Each fragrance contains individual aroma components called notes. Explore the families below and test small blends to find combinations you enjoy.
Understanding scent layers: top, middle & base notes
Every fragrance is composed of multiple layers that unfold over time
Fragrance notes are the individual aromatic components that combine to form a complete scent. The way these layers interact determines the unique character and evolution of every fragrance you create.
Top Notes
These are the initial aromas you detect first. They create the immediate impression and capture attention. Typically light and volatile, they fade relatively quickly to reveal the heart of the fragrance.
Common examples: Citrus fruits, light florals, herbal accents, fresh greens
Middle Notes
The core of the fragrance emerges as opening notes dissipate. These aromas bridge the gap between the first impression and the lasting foundation. They're often the most prominent scents during the main burn of a candle.
Common examples: Full florals, fruits, spices, lighter woods, gourmand elements
Base Notes
These deep, rich aromas anchor the entire composition. They provide longevity and depth, lingering long after the candle is extinguished. These notes leave the lasting memory of the scent experience.
Common examples: Vanilla, musks, woods, amber, resins, deep spices
The 10 Fragrance Families Explained
Spicy
Bold and invigorating scents that awaken the senses with their fiery character.
Often described as:
Common notes include:
Gourmand
Delectable and mouth-watering aromas reminiscent of sweet treats and culinary delights.
Often described as:
Common notes include:
Amber
Warm and enveloping scents built on resinous, musky foundations that exude sophistication.
Often described as:
Common notes include:
Woody
Grounded and earthy fragrances that evoke forests, nature, and rustic warmth.
Often described as:
Common notes include:
Aromatic
Fresh herbal scents that invigorate and refresh with their natural, clean character.
Often described as:
Common notes include:
Floral
Romantic and elegant bouquets ranging from delicate blossoms to rich, heady blooms.
Often described as:
Common notes include:
Citrus
Bright and energizing zesty scents that uplift and refresh the spirit.
Often described as:
Common notes include:
Marine
Clean, airy scents that capture the essence of ocean breezes and open skies.
Often described as:
Common notes include:
Green
Verdant and natural scents evoking freshly cut grass, leaves, and garden freshness.
Often described as:
Common notes include:
Fruity
Juicy and playful scents bursting with the sweetness of ripe fruits.
Often described as:
Common notes include:
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I blend fragrance oils for candles?
Use the scent wheel to identify complementary fragrances. Neighboring families blend harmoniously, while opposite families create complex contrasts. Start with 70% dominant scent and 30% accent, adjusting to preference.
What are top, middle, and base notes in fragrances?
Top notes are the first impression (citrus, herbs) lasting 15-30 minutes. Middle notes are the heart (florals, spices) lasting 1-2 hours. Base notes provide lasting foundation (vanilla, musk, woods) for hours.
Which fragrance families blend well together?
Adjacent families on the scent wheel blend seamlessly. For example: Woody + Amber, Floral + Green, Citrus + Fruity. Opposite families like Woody + Citrus create interesting, complex profiles.
What percentage of fragrance oil should I use in candles?
Most waxes perform best at 6-10% fragrance load. Soy wax typically holds 6-10%, paraffin up to 12%. Check your wax manufacturer's maximum fragrance load recommendations.
What is a fragrance oil blending tool?
A fragrance oil blending tool helps candle makers explore which scent families may work well together before creating a candle blend. It can be used to compare fragrance notes, scent families, and possible pairings.
Can I mix different fragrance families in one candle?
Yes. Many candle makers blend fragrance families such as floral, citrus, woody, gourmand, and spicy notes. The best results usually come from testing small batches and keeping accurate fragrance percentages.
How do I calculate how much fragrance oil to use in a candle?
Fragrance oil amounts are based on the wax weight and fragrance load percentage. For exact fragrance oil weights, use the candle calculator or fragrance calculator on Candlemakers-Toolbox.
What is fragrance load percentage in candle making?
Fragrance load percentage is the amount of fragrance oil used compared to the weight of wax. For example, a 10% fragrance load means using fragrance oil equal to 10% of the wax weight.