Hello Julia, Ya know I don't really remember ever using it without an additive, I have always used 1 tsp. Vybar 103 per pound of wax, so I am not sure if it mottles well or not. I have made a couple rustics with it and they turned out great. I just love the fact that I don't have to cut the wax up, I just scoop and weigh. Makes pillar making a little easier. HTH Andrea:grin2: