Learn the basics of
Candle Making
The aim of the artisanal candle making and design course is to equip you with theoretical and practical knowledge of the various forms of candle production. Over the span of two modules, you will progress from identifying and making the most basic of candle forms, to a more discerning knowledge of the varieties at large. Hobbyists and entrepreneurs alike will gain in-depth skills on this fascinating craft.
7,201
Graduates
All levels
Certified
Course details
1.Welcome, Fellow Artisan
This initial lesson is an introduction to the course, and the candle making world at large. We'll explore the different types of candles that can be made and touch on the historic significance of candles. Students will be inspired by the scope of the field, and encouraged to explore the many, many possibilities.
2.Candle Terminology
This lesson will teach our students the very specific terminology used to describe the various words associated with candle making. It is imperative that these terms are understood and correctly used to encourage a professional approach to the field.
3.Rolling Into Beeswax
In this lesson, students will create their very first candle. They will be making a simple, hand-rolled beeswax candle using sheet wax. We will discuss the correct handling of the wax, and have our first encounter with the physical production.
4.Wax On, Wax Off
In this lesson, students will discover the various different wax types that can be used in candle making. We will go into an in depth discussion of their individual properties, their chemistry, and their pro's and con's in terms of creating different candles.
5.Illuminating Wicks
In this lesson, students will learn about their various wicking options. This will include the material and sizing. We will also focus on the correct way to calculate wick size for a specific candle, and how to choose a wick that best suits the type of wax and candle a student intends making.
6.Station Activation
In this lesson, we will discuss our necessities in a home work space for making candles. The various basic equipment will be covered, as well as the raw materials needed for a project. In this, safety will also be highlighted as we will be working with hot equipment and materials, as well as gas or electric power supply.
7.Dipped Candles, Tapers Treasured
In this lesson we will create our very first paraffin candle. Students will be taught how to correctly prepare their work station and wax, and thereafter, create simple, dipped taper candles. Drying time (curing) will be demonstrated and students will walk away with both knowledge and a physical product of their learning.
8.Package, Style, Present
In this lesson we refer to the two different candles made in lessons three and seven. Some ideas for packaging of these two candles will be demonstrated. The importance of appealing presentation of your candles, as both a gift or product being sold, will be highlighted. Students will be shown basic styling of candles as decor, and how to photograph them in a way that accentuates their appeal.
1.Twist And Shout
This lesson expands on the dipped candles made in module on. Students will learn how to create a double twisted candle. They will also learn how to mould and create alternative fashionable shapes with their dipped taper candles, allowing for more creative interpretations of the traditional dipped taper.
2.Moulded To Perfection
In this lesson, students will learn the complete process on how to create a paraffin candle in a pre-made candle mould. From choosing the correct wick size, to the correct melting of the wax, the actual pouring technique, and the correct curing time before removal. Students will create these candles from start to finish.
3.Colour Me Intrigued
In this lesson, students will be taught the series of rules and guidelines that make up Colour Theory. They will learn how we instinctively communicate with colour, and how it can be used to influence perception. They will be encouraged to consider the importance of this knowledge in their candle making process.
4.Colouring Paraffin Wax
In this lesson, students will be taught to identify the various ways in which colour or dye can be added to their candle wax, to create a coloured candle. They will be shown the correct way to blend the colouring agent with their candle wax. They will be encouraged to share images of their colourful candles on social media.
5.On The Scent
In this lesson, students will be instructed on different methods available to them in fragrancing their paraffin candles. The correct method to incorporate these fragrances into their paraffin wax will be demonstrated. They will build on the knowledge they obtained in the lesson on making their paraffin wax candles to be able to able to produce a fragranced version of this more basic candle.
6.If You Can Dream It
In this lesson, students will learn a few of the many ways to decorate paraffin wax candles. There are a variety of different creative options to implement when doing this. Some of those include, image transfers and gold leafing. Students will also be challenged to come up with some of their own inspiration for this, and encouraged to share it on the social media platforms.
7.Stack 'em Up!
In this lesson, we will build on the students knowledge of how to create paraffin wax candles which have been dyed a specific colour. Using a variety of coloured waxes, we will create a multi-coloured candle in a jar. We will also create a free-standing multi-coloured candle. {time dependant, we will explore dip-dying}
8.Making Your Own Candle Wick
In this lesson, students will be shown practical demonstrations teaching them how to make their own cotton and wooden wicks. We will also demonstrate how to test the stability of the wicks being created to ensure the quality has been adequately established.
