Candle Making As A Business

Introduction

Candle making can be a rewarding and profitable business venture. This guide covers everything from the types of waxes and candles to essential tools and equipment, as well as how to calculate costs and selling prices.

Types of Waxes

• Paraffin Wax: A petroleum byproduct, widely used due to its affordability and ease of use.

• Natural Waxes:

  • Soy Wax: Made from soybeans, it burns cleaner and is biodegradable.

  • Beeswax: A natural wax with a sweet scent, known for its long burn time.

  • Coconut Wax: A renewable resource that burns evenly and holds fragrance well.

  • Palma Wax: Derived from palm oil, it is sustainable but can be controversial due to environmental concerns.

Candle Types

• Molded Candles: Created by pouring wax into molds, allowing for various shapes and designs.

• Container Candles: Candles poured into glass or metal containers, popular for home décor.

• Lotion Candles: Double as a moisturizer; made with skin-safe ingredients that melt at a low temperature.

• Wax Melts: Fragrance-infused wax that is melted in a warmer, without a wick.

Where to Start

1. Research the market and identify your target audience.

2. Choose your niche (e.g., scented, decorative, eco-friendly).

3. Develop a business plan outlining your goals and strategies.

Tools & Equipment

• Double boiler or wax melter.

• Thermometer for monitoring wax temperature.

• Pouring pitcher for easy pouring.

• Scale for measuring wax and additives.

• Stirring utensils (wooden or silicone).

• Molds or containers for shaping candles.

• Wicks and wick holders.

• Colorants and fragrance oils (if desired).

Characteristics of Paraffin Wax and Natural Waxes

Paraffin Wax

• Cost-effective and widely available.

• Good scent throw and color retention.

• Can produce soot if not burned properly.

Natural Waxes

• Generally more expensive than paraffin.

• Burn cleaner and longer.

• Eco-friendly and sustainable options.

Fragrance, Wicks, Color, and Additives

• Fragrance: Choose high-quality fragrance oils designed for candles.

• Wicks: Select the right wick size and material (cotton, wood) based on the wax and candle type.

• Color: Use candle dyes or color blocks to achieve desired hues.

• Additives: Consider using additives like stearin for hardness or vybar for scent throw.

Calculating Raw Product Needed

To determine the amount of wax and other materials required:

• Decide on the candle size and type.

• Calculate the volume of the mold/container.

• Account for any additives and fragrance oils.

Calculating Costs and Selling Prices

To establish pricing:

• Calculate total costs (materials, labor, overhead).

• Determine a profit margin (commonly 30-50%).

• Research competitor prices to ensure competitiveness.

Conclusion

Candle making can be a fulfilling business with the right knowledge and preparation. Understanding the materials, tools, and market dynamics is crucial for success.