Candles & Candle Making

Candle Making Wicks

2009-09-11T14:00:00.003-04:00

When people first begin making candles, they are often surprised by just how many candle making wicks there are available. This can make it a bit complicated to determine the best wick for each type of candle.

Choosing the right wick can be the ultimate difference in whether your candle is a raging success, or a not so subtle failure. Proper wicking makes all the difference when it comes to the life of the candle, how well it burns and whether or not it even stays lit.

Wicks come in one of two options, either pre-tabbed or on spools.

Pre-tabbed wicks are most often used in container candles and votives. They are stiff wicks of varying lengths with a metal base attached. The wick is connected to the tab by a longer metal piece referred to as the wick collar or neck, which also come in a variety of lengths.

The purpose of a wick tab is to stop the candle from burning once the flame on the wick reaches the metal neck of the tab. This extinguishes the flame before it can reach the bottom of the container, which can cause the container to overheat and break.

Spooled wicks are most commonly used in pillars and tapers and can either be used without tabs, or tabs can be attached by hand.

Wicks are available in a variety of materials. From cotton, to hemp, to paper, to those with metal cores, each wick offers different benefits and has certain situations in which they are best used.

Each individual wax may have certain wicks it will or will not work with best. Most wax suppliers will offer this information and make suggestions for appropriate wick choices for each wax. Certain wicks may burn too hot or too cool for the type of wax you are using, so it is important to pay attention to this information if you want to make the best candle possible.

When you first begin choosing wicks, it is recommended that you spend some time researching wicks in either a book about candle making or online at one of the many candle making supply websites. Wicks come in a variety of sizes, described by a series of numbers which can be complex to understand at the outset. Learn what these numbers mean by reading the description for each wick line you may be considering.

The diameter of your candle will help determine what size of wick you will need to use. Typically, the larger the diameter of the candle, the larger the wick size you will need.

When making container candles, you want to make sure that your wick is big enough to melt the wax of the candle completely across the top. You also want to prevent 'tunneling', which is when the wick burns a hole down the center of the candle leaving a tunnel of wax around the sides of a container. You also want to make sure that the wick is not too large which can cause the candle to burn faster than it should, causing excessive smoking or soot as well.

Finally, keep in mind that there is no exact science to choosing proper wicks. While manufacturers may be able to recommend certain types of wicks that will work well, you still may need to experiment to see what works best in your candles. Ultimately, you'll discover the wicks you most enjoy working with. And by testing different candle making wicks, you'll be able to learn which wicks produce your desired results.

For discount prices on candle making wicks.

Candle Making Kits

2009-09-09T15:02:00.001-04:00

A great way to get started on the popular hobby of candle making is to obtain a candle making kit. These kits are good for beginners because they include everything you will need to get started, including a good instruction book.

In addition to the instruction book, most kits include a variety of candle molds, waxes, additives, dyes, fragrances, and wicks. You can save money by having all the ingredients and tools already assembled into one convenient kit. Not only do you save money, because they include everything you will need; but they may also inspire your creativity.

Candle making has become an art form, and every person has their own ideas and designs for their candles. Therefore, each candle has the potential of becoming a unique work of art.

Candle making is not difficult; however if you are creating something for your home or as a gift, you want it to be perfect. The great thing about candle making is that if you are not satisfied with the finished product, you can always melt the candle and start all over again.

Candle making kits are also really great for children. The hobby of candle making is a great way to spend quality time with your children and grandchildren and to make memories that will last a lifetime.

There are many popular candle making kits available. You can choose to make gel candles, beeswax candles or marbled candles. It is up to you, so get started on this enjoyable hobby today, and make some beautiful candles for yourself, your family or your friends.

To get started you can take a look at this popular candle making kit from Discount Candle.

Container Candles

2009-08-24T16:18:00.001-04:00

When you first begin making candles, the most important question you must ask yourself is what type of candles do you want to make? With all the different candle types to choose from, knowing where to start can be difficult.

Most people begin candle making because they want to be able to make their own candles to fragrance their homes. With that goal in mind, learning to make container candles is probably the best and easiest way to get started.

Container candles are considered one of the easiest types of candles to make. The whole purpose of a container candle is to scent the air. While they may not always turn out looking the best to begin with, it is almost impossible to truly mess them up. As long as you start with all of the necessary supplies and a good set of directions, you will soon be on your way to creating awesome container candles.

Before you get started, you will need to answer a few simple questions. What type of wax are you going to use? What type of container are you going to pour into? What fragrance do you want to use in your candle? Do you want to dye your candle with color or not? Once you know the answers to these questions, you can begin buying your supplies.

To make a basic, single pour container candle you are going to need the following:

* Jar - most people begin with 16 oz. jars because they are to make a 16 ounce candle, making it easy to calculate proportions
* Wax - a 'one pour' paraffin or soy wax is recommended
* Wicks - use a wick that is appropriate for your container diameter and type of wax
* Fragrance - select a fragrance you like and that is appropriate for your type of wax
* Dye - use a dye that works well with the scent and type of wax you are using
* Double boiler - to heat your wax to the ideal temperature for pouring
* Pouring pitcher - to pour your melted wax into the prepared container
* Thermometer - to ensure that your wax is the ideal temperature for adding ingredients and pouring melted wax into your container

While there are many other supplies you could use, these supplies are the essential ones to make a container candle. When choosing your wax, keep in mind that you will want a wax specifically recommended for container candles. Most candle supply retailers will describe their waxes by sharing when and how they are best used. Sometimes you will even find the word 'container' in the actual name of the wax.

Next, you will need good, easy-to-follow instructions.

Typically, the best place to go for candle making instructions is the supplier where you purchased your candle wax. For example, if you purchase your wax from an online candle supply retailer, they will have detailed instructions for each and every wax they sell. Simply look up the specific instructions for the wax you have decided to work with. Many of these sites also offer message boards and instructions on how to select appropriate jars and wicks, and can be a wealth of information.

If you choose not to research or buy online, there are a number of books available on the subject of candle making as well that can guide you step by step in making the perfect container candle.

Making container candles is a great way to introduce yourself to the art of candle making. While you will run into challenges, and may need to make adjustments as you strive to make perfect candles, you'll get better as you continue perfecting your craft. The more experience you gain as you pour container candles, the better equipped you will be to expand your candle making skills into different types of candles in the future.

Selecting Dyes for Beautiful Candle Color

2009-07-06T11:52:00.000-04:00

More often than not, candle makers choose to enhance their craftsmanship by adding dye to their candles. While some candle makers choose to leave their candles naturally colored, most crafters want to enhance the decorative aspect of their products by creating vibrant colors. In today's market there are a number of ways to achieve these results. Let's cover the basics of beautiful candle color.

The main thing to keep in mind when dying your candles is that one dye never looks the same in different waxes. Each wax binds with and reacts to dye differently, so experimentation is almost always necessary. If you have used additives to make your candles, this will also affect how the dye appears. As you begin to experiment with dye, keep in mind that it is always better to add too little than too much. You can always go back and add more if need be.

One technique you may find particularly helpful as you begin dying your candles is to keep detailed notes of the amounts of dye and color combinations as you try them. That way, if you achieve a result you are happy with, you know exactly how you achieved it. For example, if you use three drops of navy blue and one drop of purple liquid dye to make the perfect blueberry muffin colored candle, then when you go to replicate the exact same color later, you know exactly what dyes to add and in what proportion.

Visiting any of the candle making supply websites, you will quickly become aware of all of the different varieties of dye available. While you may be able to purchase dye elsewhere, these specialty candle supply sites are the best source for quality products designed specifically for candle making, dyes included.

Keep in mind that no matter what type of dye product you use, each product offers its own unique benefits and it's up to you to determine what type appeals most to your own preferences and needs. Remember that all dyes can be blended to create your own unique color combinations. If you are not familiar with how to blend colors to achieve color variations, you can purchase color charts that will help familiarize you with color blending.

Liquid candle dyes are the most common type of dye used. They are highly concentrated and offer the benefit of being able to adjust the tint one drop at a time. This makes for a controlled process that can be easily duplicated.

Dye flakes are another option. Also highly concentrated, it is best to use a digital gram scale for precise measuring, as the size of the flakes will vary. Dye flakes produce a rich color that is resistant to fading and bleeding.

Pigment chips are another option. Chips are also less prone to fading and bleeding. However, pigments do not actually dissolve in the wax and any color particles not suspended in the wax should not be poured. This can make them a bit tricky to work with for beginners.

Powdered candle dyes are yet another dye option. Powdered dye is the purest form of dye as this is what the other dyes are made from. If you choose to use a powdered dye, keep in mind that they are extremely concentrated, and a little bit goes a very long way.

Because of the highly concentrated nature of candle dyes, they will dye anything they come into contact with. It's a good idea to keep a liquid dye remover handy in case you have an accident.

There is no 'best' dye. Rather, it's a matter of personal preference. Get input from other candle makers to narrow down your options. Then just experiment to find the best option for you.

Making Unity Candles

2009-06-13T11:28:00.000-04:00

Unity candles are often a very important part of traditional wedding ceremonies. This candle is a symbol of the union both families. The ceremony involves the bride and groom each lighting a taper candle with a large column candle in the middle. Once they have lit their taper candles, the bride and groom light the column with the flames form the tapers.

It is very simple to make these beautiful candles. By making them, you can personalize the message the message on the column candle for those getting married. The message can be a poem, Biblical scripture, or even a photo of the couple getting married.

Making the taper candles is very simple. It involves the hand dipping process. You will dip the two wicks over and over again in the hot wax until the taper candles are the desired width. After they have completely cooled you can trim the wick to ¼ inch of the top of the candle.

To make the column candle you will need to use a candle mold. Simply heat the wax and pour it into the mold until it completely cools. Prior to pouring the wax into the mold you will need to insert the wick from the bottom of the mold. Cut the wick several inches longer so that you can tie it to a pencil or other object. This will keep the wick centered while the candle is cooling.

After the column candle has cooled, you can place a poem, saying, photo, or even a wedding invitation to the candle using double stick tape or a glue gun. For a beautiful effect, consider cutting the attachment in an oval shape using the scissors that will leave a ridge all the way around the attachment.

To add beauty and appeal to the unity candles, you can make bows for them out of the wedding colors. For best results, use a piece of wire for each candle. Twist the wire in the front gently so you don’t damage the candles but enough to hold it securely in place. Don’t worry about the wire being seen as the beautiful bows will cover it up.

You will want to find some very pretty taper candle holders for these precious unity candles. Generally, the column candle will sit on a matching flat candle holder, similar to a small plate.

With the overall expense of a wedding, creating your own unity candles or allowing a friend or family member to do so as a gift will save you plenty. There are many great books available in craft stores and some bridal shops that provide step by step instructions for creating your own unity candles. The internet also offers great ideas and tips for making the process fun. Creating quality candles doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult.

The unity candle ceremony is an important part of many wedding ceremonies. You can provide the bride and groom with a wonderful trio of candles for their ceremony that they will treasure forever. The ability to add a personalized attachment to the column candle is a great incentive for making them yourself. Making additional column candles for the parents of the bride and groom or the wedding party is a great gift idea as well. You can place them in gift bags with bows that match the colors of the wedding.

Books on Candle Making

2009-06-09T10:15:00.002-04:00

Making your own candles is a favorite craft and hobby many individuals. They find the process to be enjoyable and relaxing. Candle makers have been know to turn to their hobby in times of stress. For some candle makers, once they learn the basics they are ready for new challenges. Purchasing books on candle making can provide you with everything from basic instructions, tips, and creative ideas to make beautiful candles. Most candle making books offer wonderful illustrations as well as step by step instructions.

The type of book you want to purchase will depend on your candle making experience, the types of candles you are interested in making, and if you are making candles for fun or to sell. Take the time to explore what each book has to offer you before making a purchase so that you won’t be disappointed. You might also check with your local library for books on candle making. If you find one there you really like then you have the option to purchase it. You can also find great discounts on used candle making books online at Ebay and Yahoo Auctions.

“The Candle Maker’s Companion” by Betty Oppenheimer and Deborah Balmuth is considered to be the “must have” candle making book. It offers information for everyone including beginners and advanced. Another great choice is “The Encyclopedia of Candle Making Techniques”. This book has gotten rave reviews for providing quality information in an easy to understand form.

For those of you who have a solid foundation of basic candle making processes, consider trying “The Complete Candle Maker Techniques, Projects, and Inspirations”. The book offers great photos of forty different candles you can make. There are step by step instructions to help you make any of them that interest you. This book includes great tips and points as well to help candle makers avoid the common mistakes that affect the results of their candles.

For those of you who enjoy making candles for special occasions and holidays, the book “Creative Candles: Over 40 Inspiring Projects for Making and Decorating Candles for Every Occasion” by Sue Spear is a great book to consider for your collection. This book features candle making ideas for Halloween, Easter, and Christmas. There are also ideas for creating candles to use as center pieces and for wedding decorations.

If you are interested in doing candle making with your children, “Great Candles” is especially designed with fun candles that are easy to do with them. The book is also written in a way that children will be interested in reading it as well. The internet is a great resource to find other great candle making books to meet your expectations.

Candle making is a great pastime. You can educate yourself on the areas of candle making by exploring various books. There are books designed for all candle making levels of expertise as well as on particular themes of candles and types of candles. The market is flooded with resources in the area of candle making, so the process of tracking down a few good books on the subject should be easy as well as fairly inexpensive. Remember to check the library, local book sales, and yard sales for these books as well. Compare prices online to make sure you get the best price for the ones you are interested in.

Candle Making for Fun or Profit

2009-05-28T11:38:00.001-04:00

Candle making has virtually exploded onto the scene in recent years, as people have flocked to the craft as a hobby or with the desire to sell their handmade candles for profit.

Most people tend to gravitate toward candle making as they begin to realize just how much money they spend on candles. While learning the craft takes an investment of both time and money, it can be time well spent as it is easily achievable to make your own candles that are of comparable, if not better quality, than what is already available in the mass marketplace.

There are many reasons people burn candles: as air fresheners, to set a certain mood, for religious purposes, as a source of light, even as a tool to sell houses. And with the wide variety of candles available today such as container candles, pillar candles, gel candles, natural wax candles and candle tarts, there is bound to be a candle making specialty that appeals to anyone looking to have some fun with a new hobby or to grow a hobby into a substantial, thriving business.

The candle industry has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years. The demand for candles is huge, and more and more people are beginning to look to candle making as a fun hobby, or as a way to supplement or entirely replace their income. Making candles part-time and selling them at various local craft shows or through local retailers is an excellent way to earn some extra cash.

For those individuals looking to take a more substantial leap into the craft, and perhaps even leave their current job, there are numerous ways to do so. Some candle makers wholesale candles to other retailers all over the country. Others set up their own websites and sell their candles at retail from an online store. Still others make their fortunes by primarily promoting their candles through fundraisers held by non-profit organizations.

While some people do see candles as a way to earn a living, others are choosing to continue their candle making activities purely as a hobby. There is much enjoyment in creating the perfect candle. By making your own candles, you can create candles designed specifically for your own personal tastes.

Maybe you prefer natural wax to paraffin wax and have a hard time finding natural wax candles. Now you can make your own. Maybe you can never find your favorite scent in a color you like. Not a problem. You can simply make some for yourself in any scent or color you desire. If you are truly a candle lover, learning to make your own candles can be personally rewarding - and a lot of fun!

Whatever your ultimate goals may be in making your own candles, it is a craft worth learning to do right. There are many books on the subject and the internet is filled with helpful hints, tips and resources. Dive in, dig deep and you will be amazed by the fantastic candles you can create. And the best part is, you get to say that you made them yourself.

Paraffin Wax vs. Natural Waxes

2009-05-20T19:51:00.000-04:00

If you are a connoisseur of candles, then no doubt you have heard the great debate: paraffin wax vs. natural wax. While some candle makers choose to offer two separate candle lines, most crafters choose to focus their efforts on one type of wax or the other.

Although each wax offers its own benefits and drawbacks, one wax is not necessarily better than the other. It is up to you to decide which wax appeals to you and which you would prefer to work with. If you plan to sell your candles, you may also wish to keep in mind the types of shoppers you will be selling to when making your wax decision.

Paraffin candle wax has been around for centuries, and is most likely the wax that the majority of candle purchasers are familiar with. Paraffin wax is a petroleum byproduct, and therefore it indirectly supports the petroleum industry. In today's marketplace, this fact alone has caused some long time candle makers to abandon their previous affinity for paraffin wax. As petroleum is a major component of paraffin wax, it also tends to emit more smoke and potentially hazardous toxins than its natural wax counterparts.

While there may be drawbacks to using paraffin, there are also many benefits. On the whole, paraffin tends to hold fragrance better, longer and easier than natural waxes. Typically, the scent throw (or strength of the scent emitted) from paraffin candles is stronger and can fill larger spaces more effectively. It is also typically easier for a candle maker to get fragrance to hold in the wax, avoiding fragrance 'seeping' issues. Overall, paraffin waxes tend to be less finicky than natural waxes, and require fewer additives and adjustments.

As an alternative to paraffin, natural waxes, such as soy, beeswax and palm wax, have become readily available to candle makers, and many are gravitating to these waxes for their natural and beneficial properties. While natural waxes may be slightly more expensive than paraffin, they are still an affordable option.

Because the scent throw of natural waxes is typically softer than paraffin, sometimes attaining a strong scent throw, or getting heavier amounts of fragrance oil to blend well with the wax, can be a challenge. Esthetic concerns are also usually more of an issue with natural waxes. Soy wax, for example, is prone to 'frosting', a white residue that can form on the tops and sides of the candle. Natural waxes may also have a tendency to form bubbles which make the candles less attractive to the eye.

On the flipside, there are many benefits to natural waxes. Overall, they do burn cleaner with less soot than paraffin candles, avoiding sooty build-up on walls. They also clean up with just soap and water in the event of a spill. Finally, they tend to appeal to many people because of their agricultural origins. Rather than support the petroleum industry as paraffin does, natural wax candles support agriculture.

Consider who you are selling your candles to, and what your own personal preferences are, when selecting the best wax for you. Regardless of which you choose, either type of wax is capable of producing excellent candles that you and your customers will enjoy.

Beginner's Candle Making Kit

2009-05-19T10:43:00.007-04:00

This Basic Candle Making Kit has everything you need to make your first pillar candles, including 10 pounds of candle wax, enough to make ten 3" x 4.5" pillars! The Basic Candle making Kit includes a variety of candle molds, waxes, additives, dyes, fragrances, and wicks as well as a candlemaking book to tell you how to put it all together! Contents may vary from the photo shown. This kit is a great value and you'll enjoy learning to make your own candles.

Beginner's Candle Making Kit

Candle Making Additives

2009-05-16T16:21:00.001-04:00

As new candle makers consult various candle making resources for instructions and troubleshooting, it is highly likely that the use of additives will be mentioned at one point or another.

Most newcomers, and even a few experienced crafters, may find it helpful to review a few of the most common candle making additives - and when and why they should be considered for use.

Before getting into detail about each individual additive, there are a few things to keep in mind when working with these products. Use of any additives in your candles will almost always affect the way the dye works with your wax. Your dye recipes may need to be adjusted when using additives.

Also, additives will most likely have an effect on your wick size. Because additives are often used to increase the wax's melting point, you may need to adjust your wick size accordingly.

What are the most commonly used additives? Here are several you may likely have a need for at one time or another.

One additive you will hear frequently discussed is vybar. Vybar acts as a binding agent and is used to make wax more opaque. Vybar can also be used to reduce air bubbling and mottling effects in your candles.

Stearic acid is another popular additive. Stearic acid helps increase the scent throw of your candles by making it possible to add more fragrance oil to the wax. This additive also helps your candles achieve a smooth, even finish.

Several companies also produce what is referred to as a Universal Additive. This additive has several functions, some of which are to help in mold release, harden wax, bind oil to wax, increase opacity and lengthen candle burn time.

One additive that most candle makers will find extremely beneficial is UV Stabilizer. If you sell your candles outdoors or under fluorescent lights, you may want to seriously consider incorporating this additive into your finished product.

UV Stabilizer is added to candles to help prevent candle fading and to improve the stability of the color. When exposed to light, some candle dyes will fade severely. In other cases, dye and fragrance oil may not react well together and over time, the color may fade. The use of Universal Additive helps combat these pesky problems.

Other products that you may sometimes see advertised as additives are beeswax and petrolatum. Beeswax is often added to wax blends to increase the overall burn time of a candle. Petrolatum is commonly used to soften the wax and to increase the melt pool.

Every additive has one or more specific, intended uses. As you gain candle making experience, familiarize yourself with these additives and consider whether or not they may benefit your candle products.

Some candle makers choose to not incorporate additives at all. Some wax blends are pre-blended and sold with the additives already included. Check with your suppliers and consult various resources if you believe your candles may benefit from one of these many additive options.

100% Beeswax Sheet Candle Kit

2009-05-15T14:18:00.001-04:00

This 100% beeswax sheet candlemaking kit has everything you need to make your first rolled candles! Kit includes: 1 Book, "Honey Wax: Rolling Beeswax Candles", 1 10 yard pack of 1/0 Square Raw Wick, and 10 beeswax sheets in a variety of colors and patterns.

Product Metrics:

Weight: 2.00 lbs. Height: 7"
Length: 10" Width: 17"

100 Beeswax Sheet Candle Kit - $ 36.18
From: Bagmo Family Enterprises

Canning Jar Candles

2009-05-14T17:29:00.000-04:00

We have all seen those beautiful canning jar candles with the pretty ribbon and potpourri. It is very easy to make your own canning jar candles with just a few inexpensive items that you can get from your local craft store or online. You will need wide mouth canning jars, ribbon, potpourri, votive candles with holders, and a hot glue gun. Make your own canning jar candles to add charm to the dinner table as a center piece or gift them to family and friends for gifts.

To start, fill the jar with potpourri. If you desire, add some extras such as dried apples or cinnamon sticks. Fill the jar full enough that when you set the candle holder on top it is even with the top of the jar. Place the candle in the holder once you have got the fit right. Next, glue the ribbon around the top mouth area of the canning jar. You can further personalize your canning jar candles by gluing on decorations. Canning jar candles are a great idea for Mother’s Day or crafts for young children to take home.

Canning jar candles are great for all Holidays as well. Add pumpkin cut outs for Halloween, little bunnies for Easter, and Christmas trees or small ornaments for Christmas. Canning candle jars make excellent fundraisers or items to sell at the next craft show. The internet offers many great canning jar candle décor ideas, especially for the holidays. Your local craft stores and the internet are great places to get canning jar candle ideas. Those of you who are more creative will have no trouble designing your own.

McCall’s canning jar candles are already made. They come with wonderful labels that are very rustic looking. This candle collection comes in many wonderful fragrances with a zinc wick. These canning jar candles come in two sizes, the 5 ounce that burns for about 30-35 hours and the 16 ounce burns for 110-115 hours. The small candles retail for $13.63 and the larger ones are $24.63. While these are great candles as well, you will miss out on the experience of candle making if you choose to purchase them. You will also be able to make several of your own for the cost of one McCall’s canning jar candle.

To save even more money when making canning jar candles, consider making your own votives. You can do this easily in you home. You will need paraffin wax, wick, and candle holders. You can choose to use dye for colored votives or scents to add a wonderful smell to the candles. It is very easy to melt the wax and add in whatever you want to make the color and smell you desire. Then simply pour the hot wax into the candle holders. To save even more, shop at thrift stores and yard sales for canning jars and votive holders at a very low price.

Canning jar candles are very easy to make and they are very beautiful. You can make them in very little time and young children will be able to do this with ease as long as you help them with the glue gun. Make canning jar candles for you own personal use or as gifts. These cute candles are very inexpensive to make and they last a very long time, giving a delicious aroma.

Candle Making Equipment and Supplies

2009-05-11T15:28:00.002-04:00

When considering all the various candle making supplies available to today's candle maker, the list seems virtually endless. It seems a daunting task to determine what is truly necessary for candle making versus what may be simply helpful. Let's cover the most basic necessities and briefly identify some of the common equipment and supplies that you may find to be helpful.

Two of the most important supplies that you will need for candle making are a double boiler and a thermometer.

The double boiler is necessary for melting your wax in a safe and efficient way. Double boilers may be purchased or even created simply by purchasing a pouring pitcher and placing it into a pot of boiling water. The thermometer is essential for determining when to add additives, fragrance and dyes, and for ensuring that wax is removed from the heat at the appropriate time. Often a candy thermometer that you find at a discount store can work just as well as a thermometer marketed specifically for candle making.

Obviously, the key component in any candle is wax. The type of wax you choose to work with is entirely up to you and is usually a very personal decision. Some people will work only with paraffin wax, while others will work only with natural wax options.

If you are making container candles, you will need a different wax than if you are making votives. To determine what type of wax you will need, it may be helpful to consult a book on candle making. A great alternative is to explore some of the many candle making supply websites you can find online. You'll find a variety of waxes when you shop online. Most of the candle making supply websites provide excellent information about which wax is best used for what purposes.

Another essential supply is wicks. The variety of wicks available can seem a bit overwhelming. Wicks come in both pre-tabbed and un-tabbed varieties, so make yourself familiar with both options. A couple of things that you will want to look into and consider when choosing wicks are the size and diameter of the candles you are making, the type of wax you are using and whether or not you are making a paraffin vs. an all natural candle. All of these things will ultimately factor into your wick decision.

If you are scenting your candles, you will need to choose fragrance to work with. Again, this is an area that requires some research. Some fragrances are more concentrated than others and their reaction in different waxes may vary. Some work well in paraffin, but not in soy. You may need to adjust the amount of fragrance oil you use based on the type of wax you are using.

If you choose to use dye, be aware that dyes come in a variety of forms. There are liquid dyes, powdered dyes, dye chips and more. Make yourself familiar with what is available and how each is used.

You may also want to consider these handy items to make your candle making more efficient: wick stickers or glue dots to secure your wicks in place, wick clips to keep your wicks straight, a digital scale to accurately weigh your wax and fragrance, wax additives to correct a particular wax issue, candle molds if you are making molded candles and a heat gun for preheating containers and smoothing candle top imperfections.

The number of candle making supplies and options is amazing. As you gain more candle making experience, you will begin to learn which supplies and equipment will best meet your personal candle making needs.

Soy Candles

2009-05-04T17:48:00.000-04:00

Making your own candles is very popular. It has always been done with paraffin wax or beeswax. Soy candles are starting to emerge on the market as well. Soy candles are made out of 100% natural soy wax without any additives. Candles made of soy wax will have a wonderful aroma without having any type of fragrance added. Expert soy candle makers know how to mix the soy wax in several ways that give the natural scent a bit of a difference as well as make in fainter or more powerful.

Soy candles can be made with or without wicks. Those with wicks are used the same way as any regular candle out there. Soy candles without wicks work with electric candle warmers. The candle sits on the warmer plate and the warmer is plugged into the wall. There is no flame to cause a fire. Wickless soy candles are a great choice for dorm rooms, apartments, offices, and anywhere that there is a potential of a candle being left burning that can cause a fire. Many offices and dorm rooms have put a ban on burning candles for this reason, but they often do allow the wickless candles using the burners.

Most candle makers who have tried soy wax are very happy with the results. It has a wonder natural scent and the texture of the melted wax makes candles that are very glossy and smooth. It is not necessary to add additives to soy wax as you often have to with paraffin and beeswax. The additives for those types of wax are for hardness and gloss. Soy wax offers both on its own.

Soy wax is cheaper than other types of wax as well. If you want to make candles on a tight budget, this would be the way to go. You will save money on the wax and you won’t need to purchase additives or scents. If you are planning to make soy candles to sell, you can make a higher profit because your costs are lower. If you aren’t sure, you can purchase a soy wax candle making kit online for less than $20. It comes with all the supplies you need to make five candles, including the jars and lids.

Many people enjoy the scent of a burning candle, but find the smoke from them can be irritating. This is especially true of individuals who are on oxygen, have bronchitis, or even allergy sufferers. Since soy wax is all natural, there is no smoke or irritates in the air from it. This makes soy wax candles a great alternative for many who otherwise wouldn’t be able to enjoy using candles.

Candle making is an excellent craft that many individuals enjoy both as a hobby and as a home business. Soy wax is not used as commonly as paraffin or beeswax, yet it works just as well for candle making. Since soy wax is less expensive and very easy to work with, consider trying it. Soy wax melts faster as well, reducing your overall production time. Soy wax is not carried in all craft stores, but you can easily purchase it on line in amounts from three pounds to fifty pounds. The more you buy, the less you will pay per pound, giving you additional savings.

Operating a Successful Candle Making Business

2009-05-04T17:45:00.000-04:00

Making candles can be great fun. Some people choose to take their love of this art and make money doing what they enjoy spending their time on. There are many areas of the candle making business you need to consider before embarking on such an adventure. Knowing how to make quality candles isn’t enough. You need to educate yourself on ways to promote your candles, ordering supplies, offering customer service, and determining a price for your candles.

We all know candles are a very popular item, so the market for such products is out there. However, that market can’t purchase your candles if they don’t know about it. You will need to establish a plan including where you plan to sell your candles, and then come up with a handle of ways to get attention to them. There are many places to sell candles. You can do so from your own home or rent space at craft shows. Often word of mouth will result in orders. You can also choose to advertise on the internet.

Advertising online can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Write about your business on a blog or purchase services from a web hosting company. They often offer excellent tools for setting up a web page and directing traffic to your site. In addition, they provide the shopping cart and even credit card processing for you. Most web hosting companies charge $20 per month, which isn’t a bad investment.

Placing your candles on Ebay or other online auction sites is a great way to generate sales. As you accumulate feedback for selling a quality product you will get more buyers. Before you can do any advertising, you will need to decide what types of candles to sell. You will generate more sells if you show pictures of your work with each type of candle you sell. People buying candles want to visualize the product they are purchasing. Once your business starts turning a profit, consider buying supplies in large quantities to get a discount.

The secret to being a successful candle making business is selling the product at a fair enough price that the consumer will buy it. Yet you also need to cover the cost of your time and supplies, while making a reasonable profit. Don’t be tempted to cut corners on the quality of your supplies as this can greatly alter the quality of your product. Once the word is out that your quality is poor, you will have a hard time maintaining sales.

To generate business, offer promotions. You can offer free shipping for your candle products at the online auction sites to have an advantage over the competition. Many auction surfers will buy a product with free shipping over one with low shipping. You can also offer a free candle with the purchase of three or even to send a personalized card if the buyer is going to use the candle as a gift.

Many successful candle making companies offer personalized service. This means customers can ask for a particular type of candle in a color and you will make it for them. This often costs the customer more, but they are likely willing to pay it. Make sure you communicate well with your customers and know exactly what they want before committing to such a project.

Every business experiences issues that come up. This is to be expected. Customers are likely to be more forgiving of such issues if they are provided with quality customer service. Make sure customers have a way to get into contact with you. Work out a resolution to any issues that you will both be happy with. It is best to outline return policies on your website as well so that there is a place customers can review such information.

Choosing to start your own business is a wonderful and exciting time. Selling your own candles gives you a business where you can be proud of the quality product you are making. Taking the time to learn the basics of the business before jumping in will help ensure this is a fun business venture for you and hopefully one that is going to be quite profitable.

5/1 About.com Candle & Soap Making: Most Popular Articles

2009-05-01T05:58:00.001-04:00

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About.com Candle & Soap Making: Most Popular Articles

Dog Soap Recipes
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Recipes for flea repelling dog soap

Add Some Sugar
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Adding sugar to your soap helps increase lather and bubbles

Herbal Oil Infusion
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Directions on How To Make an Herbal Oil Infusion for Soap Making

Soap & Surface Tension
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Demonstration of how soap breaks surface tension

Goat's Milk Soap
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Instructions for making goat's milk soap with either liquid or powdered goat's milk soap

Rustic Pillars
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Step-by-step instructions to make Rustic Pillar Candles

Propylene Glycol
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Discussion of Propylene Glycol in Soap, Cosmetics and Household Items

Scent Blending
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Create custom fragrance blends of fragrance or essential oils for your soaps and candles with this simple blending guide

Citronella Candles
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Directions for making mosquito repelling outdoor citronella bucket candles

Melt and Pour Fun
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Melt and Pour Soap Scrubbie - Easy Soap Making Project - Great for kids - fun soap making project

Easy Soapmaking
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Easy illustrated instructions for making melt and pour soap! Melt and pour soap making gets you started right away making your own natural handmade soap.

Glycerin Soap
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

The term glycerin (glycerine) soap is really a misnomer. All real soap is glycerin soap.

Easy Votive Candle
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Easy candle making project-make a simple votive candle-step by step instructions

Types of Candles
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Description and examples of the many different types of candles you can make.

Basic Bath Salts
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Basic instructions and recipe to make bath salts

Making Lye from Wood Ashes
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Links to sources of how to make lye the old fashioned way - from wood ashes and water

Cocoa Butter Massage Bars
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Instructions, ingredients and recipe for cocoa butter massage bar - recipe and ingredients

Photo Candles
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

How to add a photo to your candles using either waterslide candle decals or embedding photos into a hurricane shell

Fizzy Bath Bombs
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

These bath bombs are indeed "the bomb" - easy instructions for nearly fool proof fizzies!

Add a Bit of Salt
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Adding a bit of salt to your soap can help increase hardness - an inexpensive and easy soap making tip

Container Candles
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Step-by-step instructions for making basic container candles.

Soap Exfoliants
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

List of exfoliants you can use in your soaps

Saponification
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

definition of saponification in soap making

Easy Molded Candle Project
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Basic candle making instructions for a molded pillar candle.

Qualities of Soap Making Oils
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Which oil will give what qualities to your soap recipe? Here's a catalog of the many different oils used for making soap - and the qualities they give to your soap making recipes.

Citrus Honey Bock
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Recipe for Citrus Honey Bock Soap

Rebatching Soap
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

How to rebatch soap - grating and remelting soap - fixing mistake soap batches - make hand milled soap

Mosquito Votives
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

instructions for making citronella mosquito repelling votive candles

Gel Candle Making
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Gel Candle Making FAQ - Gel Wax - What is it?

Fun Soap Variation
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Step by step instructions to make whipped soap - room temperature cold process soap

Candle Projects Directory
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Directory of Candle Projects at Candle and Soap Making at About.com

Pumpkin Pie Soap
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Ready for fall flavors and scents? This pumpkin scented soap uses real pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice! Almost good enough to eat...and fabulous in the bath!

Make a Lye Solution
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Step by step instructions to safely make a lye-water solution for use in making cold process soap

Soap Making Recipes
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Directory of soap making recipes from basic soap making recipes to soaps with botanical additives to specialty soaps

Hard White Soap
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

recipes for old fashioned hard white soap

Citronella Torches
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Step by step instructions to make citronella torch candles

MP Shaving Soap
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Instructions to make Melt and Pour Shaving Soap

Layered Lavender Soap
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Lavender soap with two twists! Mint and layering. Easy recipe and instructions to make Lavender Mint Multi-Layered Soap

Base Note
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Base note the rich heavy scent that emerges slowly and lingers When blending fragrance and essential oils for soap candles or aromatherapy attention must be paid to the characteristics of each oil Each oil has a top note middle note and base note

Green Tea & Lemongrass Soap
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Recipe for green tea & lemongrass soap

Make Chunks for Candles
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Instructions to make wax chunks for chunk candles - materials needed

Organize Your Craft Room
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Great articles and resources to help you organize your craft room

Mitre Box Soap Mold
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Step by step instructions to make a great soap mold out of a mitre box and some wood strips.

Essential Oil Safety
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

How to use essential oils safely in your soaps and candles.

Soap Making Basics
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Want to make your own hand made soaps - but just a beginner Start here for a quick primer in soap making - Fun projects and how-to projects as well as explanations of all the materials tools and ingredients involved

Soap Felting
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

How to felt soap - A combination washcloth and bar of soap - this project uses simple wool and simple soap to make a wonderfully unique soap presentation - soap felting

CP Shaving Soap
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Recipe for shaving soap - olive oil shaving soap

Alternative Lye Solutions
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

You're not limited to just using distilled water in your soap making. Many soapers make soap with goat's milk, coconut milk, coffee, tea or even beer. Making the lye solution for your soap is a bit more tricky though.

Cucumber Soap
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Recipe for cucumber soap

Molded Roses
April 30, 2009 at 6:17 am

Step-by-step instructions to make molded rose candles.

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How to Select the Best Paraffin Wax

2009-04-29T16:56:00.000-04:00

Selecting the ideal paraffin wax to use in your candles requires an analysis of several key factors.

First, you need to determine what type of candles you are going to make. For example, the type of paraffin one would use for container candles is very different from the type of paraffin one would use for pillar candles.

Next, you need to determine what wax traits are most important to you. Is it important that your wax is easy to work with? Do you want one that requires little or no additives? Are you looking for the strongest scent throw possible? Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preferences and finding the best wax to match your desires.

Paraffin comes in many varieties. Some are soft and scoopable, while others are harder and must be cut from slabs. Typically, the softer the wax, the lower its specific melting point will be.

The melting point is the term used to describe the temperature at which the wax will begin to melt. Melting points of paraffin wax range from approximately 127 degrees Fahrenheit (53 degrees Celsius) on the low end to 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius) on the high end. The higher the melting point, the harder the wax.

One of the benefits of lower melting point paraffin waxes is that the softer wax helps to retain the fragrance of the candle until it is burned. This trait makes lower melting point paraffin waxes ideal for container candles. In addition to their wonderful ability to retain scent, these low melting point waxes are extremely malleable and almost never requires the use of additives.

While some candle makers may love the benefits of these softer waxes, they can be sticky to work with, and they tend to emit more soot than some other waxes. While the stellar scent throw may be a benefit, some may not feel that the drawbacks are worth it. Again, it comes down to personal preference.

Medium melting point paraffin waxes are most commonly used for votives and sometimes containers. A medium melting point paraffin will be harder to the touch and will keep its shape better than the lower melting point paraffin waxes.

It still manages to hold scent fairly well, but this type of wax often requires use of additives, thus resulting in more experimentation in making your candles. The medium melting point paraffins typically come in blocks, and can either be chipped off or cut off in chunks for use.

The higher melting point paraffins are usually reserved for making pillars, hand-dipped tapers, molded, and shaped or carved candles. These waxes are used for making such candles because of their extreme firmness, and because these types of candles do not often require the stronger scent throw of other types of candles.

The firmness of the wax makes them ideal for molded and shaped candles because they will not cave in on themselves while cooling. High melting point paraffin waxes will almost always require the use of additives, and they do not retain fragrance as well as the softer paraffin waxes.

Many craft stores have begun carrying a small range of paraffin waxes. However, these waxes are typically of mediocre quality and are not intended to meet the needs of more serious candle makers. For a wide array of quality choices, visit one of the many specialty online candle making supply websites.

Not only do they offer a wide variety of waxes, but they also offer detailed instructions on how to work with each one. You'll also find the other supplies you may need, making these websites excellent one stop shops for purchasing all your candle making supplies.

How to Get Started Making Candles

2009-04-29T16:54:00.000-04:00

Making the decision to try your hand at candle making is easy. Figuring out where to go from there is a bit harder. While many of the big, national craft stores sell candle making supplies, their offerings are not always of the best quality, and their selections tend to be extremely limited. To obtain your supplies, it's advisable to visit one of the many internet sites devoted to the craft of candle making.

On these specialty websites you will find not only a wide variety of waxes, fragrances, wicks, containers and accessories, but many will also contain message boards full of valuable information for newcomers as well. The best way to learn how to make candles is to communicate with and learn from those who have already done it.

You will not only gain valuable knowledge, but you will very likely save yourself time and money by not replicating the many mistakes they have most likely made. A large part of learning the craft is trial and error, and you may be surprised by how willing others are to share their experiences.

Once you have done some research, decided what kind of candles you are going to make, and have an idea as to how you are going to go about making them, it is time to buy your supplies. The most important thing to keep in mind is to buy only what you need. With as many supplies as there are available, it's tempting to want to buy anything and everything that looks appealing.

Keep in mind that you are most likely going to make adjustments in your supplies and techniques as you get going. While bulk buying may offer significant cost savings, it is advisable to purchase in smaller quantities when you're getting started until you know that you are pleased with your end result. It doesn't make much sense to purchase fifty pounds of something that ends up not working to your satisfaction.

Another thing to keep in mind is that most of the online candle supply retailers do not require a minimum purchase. Because of this, you do not have to be limited to just one supplier. Shop around. You may find better prices or widely different offerings from one supplier to another. Suppliers closer to you may save you substantial money on shipping so see what you can buy close to home when possible.

Finally, as holds true in so many areas, cheaper is not always better. When it comes to candle making, you pay for quality. As you will quickly learn, you do get what you pay for. This becomes very apparent as you start working with your waxes and fragrances.

While getting started making candles can be intimidating, just keep in mind that many others have conquered the task before you. Listen to those willing to share and learn from their triumphs and mistakes.

You may even want to consider purchasing a book on the subject. However you choose to go about learning, just keep in mind that even the most experienced candle makers can always learn something new as well. Don't be afraid to experiment, and most of all, have fun in your new endeavor.

Candle Making Business

2009-04-29T14:38:00.000-04:00

Only experienced candle makers will tell you that there is a lot of fun in making candles. After perfecting your basic candle making technique, you can start to produce truly beautiful, high-quality candles. To have other appreciating your candle making techniques, you can give them away as gifts, or sell them for a profit. Now after perfecting your candle making techniques, remember not to quickly to turn your hobby of candle making into a candle making business.

Before you decide to give up your day job, you should take the time to learn about marketing, purchasing supplies at the lowest possible cost, customer service tactics (as your customers are your business), and learning how much you should charge for your candles. If you set your price too high, no one will buy them, if you don’t charge enough, you won’t be able to recoup your costs, and won’t earn a profit.

Candles are very popular everywhere, especially those decorative and scented candles which are widely marketable. Now you need to let people know that you have supplies of candles for sale.

Advertisement is the quickest way to let the market know that your candle making business exists. There are many ways on selling your candles such as treating it as a home business, from a brick and mortar store, mail order, online through a website, eBay, etc.

You have to decide which method work best for you to sell your candles. After that, it would be time to start advertising your business that suits your platform. If you are starting a home business, then you would want to advertise in the local newspapers, fliers with special offers. Consignments supplies in gift shops and convenient stores can bring a consistent demand for your candles. Make your presence in local trade shows and craft centers would certainly help. You can check out ongoing events in your area via the internet.

You probably need to consider selling your candles online as another avenue. To have your business online you need to learn online advertising which you can do yourself otherwise engage some experts to do it for you. Online advertisement can be expensive. Some of the upfront cost are website development service charges, payment options hosting fees etc.

Another avenue for selling your candles is on online auction sites such as eBay. You will need to take good pictures of your candles, and put up some good descriptions of them. Once you establish your reputation in candle making as a business, you will really start seeing the orders coming in.

To be really successful in your candle making business, you need to know how to price your candles. Your sales of candles will have to cover all your outgoings such the cost of your supplies, internet fees, etc., plus turning some sort of profits for yourself. However, you need to try out, first making some errors then seeing what is right for you. There is no quick rule here.

Once you know about the pricing, advertising, etc., now you have to just provide high-quality products providing value to your customers. This will be the key to your candle making as a business , and once you master this, you stand to have a long-term candle making as a business that will make you a nice yearly income, all from doing something that you love.

Candle Making

2009-04-29T14:33:00.000-04:00

By Isabel M. Isidro

If you are interested in the creative craft of candle making, you can have a lucrative home business. According to the National Candle Association, candle consumer retail sales in the United States alone is projected at over $2.3 billion, not including candle accessories.

Candles have become a must-have accessory in every home for their practical and decorative elements, and they are used by 7 out of 10 American households. They have become popular as gifts at birthdays, Christmas, and housewarmings. Once merely a hobby of candle enthusiasts, candles are now sold in gift and specialty stores, home furnishing stores, through mail order, craft shows and through the Internet.

While candles can be made at a relatively low cost, candle making is a time-consuming process and may require some space (working in your kitchen can both be dangerous and very messy).

Some people purchase candles already made and add decorative touches such as pressed, dried flowers to the outside. Research the kinds of candles that are being produced, and develop your own unique candle line.

Tips And Advice On How To Start Candle Making

2009-04-29T14:13:00.000-04:00

The history of candle making goes back in time; candles have been archaeologically authenticated to around the year 3000 BC, this means more than 5000 years ago. At first candle making had a religious and a practical side. Candles were the only source of light at night. In terms of religion candles have an important part, especially in Christianity where they are omnipresent in all churches. In the ancient times only the richest people could afford candles.Things have changed over time, in the 18th century candles were common in every home, the difference between those used by the rich and the poor was the quality and type of the material used in candle making. The wealthy families used beeswax made candles, this type didn’t have such an unpleasant smell, in fact it wasn’t unpleasant at all. The cheap candles were made of animal fat, they smelt terrible when burnt, even the manufacturer workshops for candles were built outside towns because of the smell they gave away.

First steps in making candles:

The first thing you must do for candle making is get all the things and supplies from your kitchen that will help you in getting started. Before boiling wax you must consider reading some safety advice: buy quality wax, poor quality material can react very different to heating, use safety gloves and some face protection if you consider it necessary. If you intend to create scented candles be careful not to inhale strong essences because they can give you headaches or more serious problems.

After getting all the things that you consider helpful in your candle making task, you must set up your working area, at first place newspapers or butcher paper all around the surface you intend to use, this will help you when the job is finished and you need a fast cleanup. Also keep some towels or anything similar just in case the paper you placed on the working area is not enough and you need a fast cleanup of some surface. After setting the place up for work you just need to follow the instructions for making a certain candle, be careful not to pour wax on your skin because it can be very painful.

Why making candles at home?

Many of you may wonder why someone would make their candles when it is far easier, nicer and more comfortable and to simply buy them. Yes, making candles is not a job for someone to take over night, it’s a hobby that many find very captivating. If you check the forums you will find many discussions on how candle making can be personalized and why so many people take pleasure in it.