I have, and did when I first started with candles. You can actually whip pillar waxes, so you don't have to go after the Creme wax. I believe places like Peak carry "Sample" sizes, which are about 2 lbs. I think some of the other online stores may, as well. Or you could set aside a bit from your blocks, even. As for the retail shops, you are going to pay a LOT more than if you work with some of the suppliers. But you can get some of the better kinds at the retail shops, too. Just not as many options.