Candle Making Made Easy!

Candle Making Additives
Candle making additives are added to wax in order to add varied features to the candle. They
also enhance the look of your creations. Depending upon the type of candle you are making
and the climate of the region, one has around 8 different choices to pick from.
While some candle makers do not support the usage of the additives, some make the most of
its advantages in varied forms and functions. These additives are quite inexpensive and work
well if used in the right manner.
Beware that these additives must be used in an appropriate amount as even a bit more amount
can damage the wax or the burning quality of the candle as well. There are several books
available to gain more knowledge on the same.
The varied types of additives are as follows:
1. Kemamide
A fine powder. Used as a release agent.
Kemamide has a hint of ivory in the color. It is close to transparency. It must be stored in a
closed & dry environment as exposure to humidity can lead to clumping. It is often used as a
release agent.
The advised quantity is one teaspoon for each pound of wax.
2. Poly-AC
A fine powder. Used as a hardener.
Poly-AC is white in color. It is quite dry in texture. It needs to be stored in dry environment in
order to prevent clumping. It is used as a hardener.
The effective quantity is one teaspoon for each pound of wax.
3. Chimasorb 81
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A powder. Used to enhance color.
Chimasorb 81 has a yellowish tint. This additive must be stored well as it is most likely to get
clumped. Even in low humidity areas it can get clumped. Chimasorb 81 enhances color. In
terms of quantity it is used the least.
Only 1/10 of a percent for each pound of wax is enough.
4. Stearic Powder
Flaky. Used for hardening. Reduces the melting temperature of the wax.
This white colored additive doesn’t react to humidity. It is mainly used for hardening and to
reduce the melting temperature of wax. Its quantity used depends on the kind of candles one is
making. Stearic Powder causes damage to wax in case it is used in inappropriate quantity, so
beware while using it.
It is advisable to use three teaspoons for every pound of wax.
5. 103 Vybar
Usually available in the form of tiny beads. Adds a creamy texture to wax. Also used as a
hardener.
Beads do not have the problem of clumping as they flow loosely & hence don't stick together,
even in the high humidity areas. It is an effective hardener. It has very creamy texture that
adds the same quality to the candle. It is a good hardener for the scented candles.
The advised amount to be used is one teaspoon for each pound wax.
6. Paraflint
Available in bead form. Used as a hardener.
It is sold in the form similar to 103 Vybar that is beads. Yet, these beads are quite larger.
You can use one teaspoon for each pound of wax.
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7. Poly 400
Available in beaded form, the shapes & sizes vary. Saves the candle from fading in sunlight.
Poly 400 is a UV inhibitor that keeps the candle from fading in sunlight.
It is used at the rate of one teaspoon for each pound of wax.
8. BHT Crystal
A Powder. Adds luster to wax.
BHT Crystal, a yellowish powder, is an antioxidant that is stored in liquid form for a long time.
BHT crystal adds a beautiful luster to the candle wax.
Candle Making Made Easy!

Operating a Successful Candle Making Business
Candles in the current scenario are used for several purposes like decoration & gifts. They are
always an indispensable part of the festivities and usual home décor. Candles add elegance to
our homes, act as a gracious centre piece for the dinner tables, add vibrancy at the wedding
receptions, and appeal one & all with varied colors and scents. These are hence an excellent
craft to sell.
Those who love this art might choose to turn it in to a profit making venture. This might sound
like an adventure, but like all other businesses, this field also has its dynamics and modes to
conducts well. Prior to embarking in this flourishing industry, besides knowing the art of making
quality candles, you require to know the other business details as well. For instance, offering
customer service, ordering supplies, determining the price of your candles, etc.
It is anyways always advisable to invest some quality time and understand the business you are
entering in to, before just jumping in. This would also make your job far more fun and
professionally rather viable.
Marketing your products requires a lot of promotion and skills. There might be a big market out
there for candles, but how would one purchase your