My Instagram tagline says "Always on to something new" and it's not an understatement. People who know me for a long time probably have been witnesses to the creative adventures I've been on - from making jewelry, creating digital art to crafting resin items and now pouring candles. I guess what really draws me to these things is my curiosity and the need to prove to myself that "I can do that too!".
So here we are, in the name of my many hobbies, I dived into the world of candle making. Watching those "chandlers" pour melted wax into minimalist vessels relaxes me - it's very therapeutic, I highly recommend it! Whenever new ideas pop into my mind, I would always think that it could translate into a business opportunity if I can get really good at it. But then I'd go through bumps along the way and realize some of these things can be unsustainable for me (e.g. it takes too long, materials and supplies are not always available locally etc). I can talk to you about how I started it though - maybe you'd be interested too? If you have a lot of time on your hands and you're very patient (which I am not) then maybe you can give candle-making a try.
HOW DID YOU START LEARNING ABOUT IT?
I came across an instagram post of scented soy candles, got very curious and started searching on Youtube. My first impression was "Oh, so this is very easy to make."
FUN FACT: Did you know a candle maker is known as a "chandler"? The term is related to "chandelier", meaning an ornate, branched light fitting that held lot's of candles! Before electricity, in stately homes there was a person in charge of the household's candles- an important and trusted role.
Michelle Gutwein
There are a lot of videos on YouTube that talk about the candle making process and once you watch this videos you definitely learn a lot as I did. Recommended Youtubers to watch:
- Shin Guiking's Guide on DIY Scented Candles
- Erica of Memory Box Candle Co.
- London Kreautler of Bramble Berry
Some chandlers have their very own formulas so it's actually up to you to experiment to find the golden ratio for your candles.
WHERE TO BUY SUPPLIES?
I buy all my raw materials from Shopee. There are suppliers or stores that have basically all the supplies that you will need for candle making. Various shops have various prices and a difference of around 5-10 pesos. What’s important is that you have a budget for the shipping fee because some of the materials can get really heavy especially if you plan to make lots of candles.
- 1.2L candle melting pot
- 300 grams Beesoy Wax Blend (240g soy wax and 60g beeswax)
- 3pcs 120ML green glass jars
- Candle Wicks
- Wick Bars
- Foam Glue Dots
- Thermometer
- Spatula
- 18g Fragrance Oil
This kit is very convenient because it comes with a formula for creating soy candles. If you are a beginner I highly recommend this.
MAKING MY OWN CANDLES: MIA CLARA SCENTED SOY CANDLES
Once I had my supplies and equipment ready, I started making my own candles in small batches. I started with the green tea scent and poured them onto green glass jars (in photo). It is best to let them cure for a week or more so that the scent becomes more pronounced.
Designing my labels came next. I love making things completely my own - so I designed the logo and labels in Canva and had them printed on sticker labels. It's up to you now to decide what feels or vibe you want your brand to evoke. I chose minimalism and a little bit of vintage.
Candles can sell anywhere from PHP199-PHP599 depending on the weight and size of the vessel.
I'll try to post more content on making candles soon. Comment below what you want to know :)
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