Candle making is a very popular hobby. Getting started is quite easy, and you can readily obtain the needed materials and start creating some candles in very short order. Like anything else, one needs to learn the ropes a bit, and if your mold isn't clean, or if the temperature of the wax is too hot or cold, the candles won't turn out just right. But with a little experience a person can be making very professional looking candles. One of the more popular types of candles these days are fragrant candles, and this article will discuss what types of materials are needed for making aromatic candles and where to acquire them.
Basic Equipment
The basic materials needed to make any candles include such things as a double boiler to melt wax, a metal pouring pot, candle molds and a mold sealer, primed wicks, wax, candle dyes, other basic household items like scissors, a tape measure, and measuring spoons. If you are just getting started, a book such as ?Candle Making for the First Time? is a big help. Once you have the above equipment ready, it is not difficult to get started.
After making a few batches of candles and learning the various processes, you'll soon want to start making some fragrant smelling candles as well. What types of aromas should you try, and how will you find them? Extensive lines of flavors made from both synthetic chemicals and also essential oils, which are derived by distilling natural plant material, are readily available. Check out the CandleChem Company. A quick glance at their web site reveals that they have everything one needs to make candles, including a extensive array of fragrances. Just to give an idea, here is a listing of the aromas they offer, and this is only a list of those starting with the letter ?A?: African Violet, Allspice, Almond Cherry, Almond Coconut, Almond Cookie, Aloe Vera, Amaretto, Amaretto Chocolate, Amaretto Coffee, Amaretto Spice, Amaretto Vanilla, Amber Romance, Angel Food Cake, Angel Wings, Anise, Apple & Rose, Apple Blossom, Apple Cider, Apple Cinnamon, Apple, Apple Jack, Apple Peel, Apple Pie, Apple Spice, Apple Spice Cake, Apple Strudel, Apples & Berries, Apples & Oak, Apples & Oranges, Apricot, Apricot Brandy, and Apricot Azalea.
So it is clear that there are literally hundreds of possibilities. It only takes a few drops of an essential oil to add the necessary amount of fragrance when making a candle, so purchasing a few of your favorite aromas won't cost too much and will last a long time.
If this company does not have exactly what you are looking for in terms of equipment or candle making fragrances, another possibility is Natures Garden which has a similar lengthy list of candle making scents.
Whether you are looking to make candles for your own living space, looking for a way to make creative gifts for your friends and family members, or even thinking about starting a small business, making fragrant candles is an excellent hobby that is easy to get into. And once you master the basics and get creative, you'll be able to make all sorts of different candles that you and others will enjoy.
1) Cost calculation
Before you fix the selling cost of each candle, try and figure out how much it cost you to make that candle. To make many candles at once, you have purchased the ingredients in bulk. To calculate the cost of one candle, first figure out the cost per ounce of each of the ingredients. For example, you have used paraffin wax, acid, color, perfume and other items to make the candles. How much does each item cost per ounce ? and how many ounces of each did you put in one candle. Then you will know how much it cost to make one candle. In case you have added accessories like ribbons, bows, natural accents or boxes, don't forget to add their costs too. Then there is a cost to the wick also. So after you have found the cost of one candle, your selling cost should be 3 to 4 times more than this value. And if you wish to sell the candles in bulk, the selling cost should be twice of the cost of production.
2) Buy your supplies in bulk.
It is always better and profitable to buy your ingredients in bulk. Ask your supplier about further discounts. Most manufacturers offer good discounts on purchases over 200 pounds. Remember, regarding fragrances ? if you use many of them, try and limit your choices till your business is more established. If you increase your variety, chances of profits also get reduced.
3) Marketing your candles.
One of the best ways to make profits from your candle business is to see that they are available readily from places people go to buy. And what better place to start than your local store. Locate a store that sells candles and seek an appointment to meet the Stores Manager. At the first meeting be polite and courteous ? as some people don't prefer strong sales pitches. Watch out to remain soft but firm. In case you don't get an appointment with the concerned Stores personnel, try a second time. Give them enough time to mull over your stocks. Provide them with samples, brochures and business card. Go back to them at a later date to enquire if they have had time to review your products.
In case you find a Store that seems to be interested in your products, provide them with some free samples, which they can keep burning at the front counter. A good way to do some market research. If the customers evince interest in these candles, the Store is most likely to stock your candles.
4) Specialize in a popular 'theme.'
Everyone these days desire exclusivity. Make your candles with a special theme, which people don't get elsewhere. If 'country' is a theme that is popular in your area, make candles with this theme. You will therefore create a separate and exclusive brand. The natural candles make use of natural ingredients like leaves, twigs, dried fruits and flowers and they are extremely popular with the people. Try and find out what people prefer in your area and make your candles on that idea.
5) Never underestimate the power of smell.
There are many candle manufacturers who make candles which last long but makes the packaging such that it is impossible for buyers to smell them before they buy it. Remember, most people would like to smell a perfumed candle, before they buy it. If you create candles which have distinctive aroma, make sure that customers can enjoy this before they buy ? after all this is one of your winning points. Or else all the labor you have put in to make your candles exclusive, will simply go waste.
Both Walter Ballenberger & Dorothy Kimble are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Walter Ballenberger has sinced written about articles on various topics from Sinus Infections, Baby Shower and Arts. Walt Ballenberger is founder of Highly Scented Candles. For hand-crafted scented candles that are clean and long burning visit. Walter Ballenberger's top article generates over 40500 views. Bookmark Walter Ballenberger to your Favourites.
Dorothy Kimble has sinced written about articles on various topics from Arts, Real Estate and Advertising Guide. Dorothy Kimble is a staff writer at Crafts Digest and is an occasional contributor to several other websites, including. Dorothy Kimble's top article generates over 27100 views. Bookmark Dorothy Kimble to your Favourites.