Beginners Guide to Creative Candle Making

If you are searching for a new hobby, trying to save money, or wanting to explore your creative potential, candle making is FOR YOU!

Knowing the basics of candle making before starting can set you up for better success on your journey, like any new craft. Here, I will go over the basic " need-to-know " and materials with approximate costs so you can see for yourself if the journey is worth it!

At Brazy Wickz we are all about transparency! We stand behind our products and methodology when creating candles and don't want you to miss out on any of it! Let's get to the candle making already ......

Before we start....Please note that prices may vary depending on your location and where you purchase your supplies. Some Canadian Suppliers are: Village Craft and Candle, New Direction Aromatics, Makesys

The very first step before the first step is to understand what type of candles you want to make. If you are going for a basic candle, cost and supplies will be minimum. If you're looking to make a creative candle, the cost and supplies may increase, but your possibilities and creations are endless!

Step 1. Gather Your Supplies:

• Wax: Choose a wax suitable for candle making, such as soy wax, beeswax, or paraffin wax. Prices can range from $10 to $30 for a 1-2 lb bag.

Soy wax is an affordable natural wax that comes from soybean oil and is safe for breathing.

Beeswax is a more expensive natural wax with a tint of color and fragrance that cleans the air we breathe when it is burnt. 

Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum that is created when crude oil is refined into gasoline. This type of wax is the cheapest but causes health risks.

• Containers: Decide on the type and size of containers for your candles, such as glass jars, tins, dough bowls or cement vessels. Prices can range from $1 to $10 per container, depending on the size, quality and quantity. 
• Wicks: Select wicks appropriate for your chosen wax and vessel. Pre-tabbed wicks are convenient for beginners. Wicks come in different materials as well as wax coated or plain. Certain wicks are made for certain sizes of vessel diameters so make sure you measure your vessel diameter before purchasing wicks. Prices vary depending on the length and quantity, but you can find packs starting around $5.
• Fragrance Oils or Essential Oils (optional): If you want scented candles, you'll need fragrance oils or essential oils. Fragrance oils bond better in all waxes mentioned above, but paraffin wax will always give the best scent throw. Essential oils are a good alternative for people with fragrance allergies Prices vary depending on the type and brand, but a small bottle typically costs $5 to $10, but for essential oils, depending on the quality, can range from $5-$100 a bottle.
• Dyes or Colorants (optional): If you want colored candles, you'll need dyes or colorants specifically designed for candles. Prices vary, but a small pack can cost around $5.
• Thermometer: An essential tool for monitoring the temperature of your wax. Prices range from $5 to $15.
• Pouring Pot or Double Boiler: Used to melt your wax safely. A pouring pot specifically designed for candle making can cost around $10 to $20, or you can use a double boiler you already have at home.
• Heat Source: A heat source like a stove or hot plate to melt the wax.
• Stirring Utensils: Use heat-resistant utensils like a silicone spatula or wooden spoon.
• Tape, Glue, or Wick Stickers: Used to secure the wick to the container. Prices vary depending on the type, but a small roll typically costs $3 to $5.
• Specialty items: Creative candles require a few more utensils than basic candle-making. Piping bags, Piping Tips, Mica Powder, Molds, Eco Glitter, Sprinkles, Dried fruits are some to name.

Step 2 Calculate Costs:

• Calculate the cost of the wax, wicks, containers, fragrance oils, dyes, and any other materials you plan to use.
• Add the cost of tools and equipment like thermometers and pouring pots.
• Consider the cost of packaging and labels if you plan to sell your candles.

Pricing Your Candles:

• Determine the total cost of making each candle, including materials, tools, and packaging.
• Decide on a profit margin based on your market research and target audience.
• Consider factors like candle size, burn time, and the quality of your ingredients.
• Research the prices of similar candles in your area or online to determine a competitive yet profitable price range.
• Keep in mind any additional costs such as marketing and selling fees if you plan to sell your candles through a platform or marketplace.

Remember to always prioritize safety and follow proper candle-making instructions. Experiment with different scents, colors, and container sizes to find your unique style.

Keep an eye open for the next blog that will explain the basics of candle making, where I will explain proper wax temperature, pouring temperature, fragrance load, wick properties & More!

Happy candle making!