I have no problem with the HL wax. It is what I use to make my votives. You have to add Vybar in order to get a good scent throw. The wax is more expensive per pound but I print out the coupon to save 40% and I don't have to pay shipping. My container wax, pillar wax, and soy waxes I order online and bite the bullet and pay for shipping. As for the rest of the supplies, I would start looking online. The wicks are not labeled well at HL and Michael's. I have never purchased scents from either HL or Michaels so I can't tell you about their quality.