Taking a class on candle making is an excellent way to learn about the different types of candle waxes, the equipment needed and the various techniques used to make each style of candle. There are many classes for candle making available for those that are new to the craft and for experienced candle makers who want to learn a new skill or technique.
Online Class Options
You don't need to travel to learn some basic candle making skills. A few places online offer free or low-cost candle making classes you can take to learn the basics, as well as some more advanced techniques.
The Candle Academy
Candle Making Courses through The Candy Academy with world renowned candle designer Gary Simmons is a good option. Three types of online candle making classes are offered. One is online via videos and the other is via Skype. In addition to the online classes, in-person workshops are offered in Jamaica and the West Indes. Course instructors are world leading candle designers. Online courses include:
- Hobby Course: This course teaches you how to set up a candle studio and begin creating your designer candles. Cost is 25 Euros for 5 classes.
- Interactive Course: This is an interactive 5-class course with instructor. At the end of the month, you'll take a test and submit photos of your candle creations. Cost is 40 Euros.
- Business Set Up Course: Extensive and interactive 10 courses provides design, marketing and manufacturing for small or large business startups. Cost is 100 Euros.
- Platinum Course: Includes all three courses for 500 Euros, you may want to check out the 50% discount offered for a limited time.
Nature's Garden
Nature's Garden offers multiple free online classes in both basic and advanced candle making. The classes are free and offered in PDF format; click on any of the classes, such as How to Make Chunky Votive, Gel Wax, Soy Wax, Chunky Candle, and Pillar Candles. You'll be taken to a page with the instructions on making the candle. Included in their many offerings are classes on topics like:
- Common Candle Making Mistakes
- Candle Additives Information
- Science of Candle Wicking
- How to Make Votive Candles
Most of the classes are fairly short and to the point; if you have no experience begin with learning about the ingredients and the process. Once you've covered the basics, taking on a project is easy since the website provides the ingredient lists and step-by-step instructions on how to make the candle.
Universal Class
Universal Class offers a course in Candle Making 101 for $50 with no certificate, or $75 with a CEU Certificate if you wish to get a certificate of completion at the end. The course is instructor-led, but self-paced and takes about 10 hours. Signing up for the class gives you six months to complete the course, working at your own pace and during your own time. Taking the course gets you 1.0 CEU, or continuing education credit. Before you begin, you sould know:
- The course covers 15 lessons beginning with the history of candle making, covering equipment, step-by-step candle making and additives, and ends with marketing ideas.
- The course also thoroughly covers starting your own candle making business and provides you with resources such as wholesale suppliers lists and candle making communities.
- Be aware that this is a graded class, and exams are given after each of the lessons are covered.
- If you are taking the class to get the CEU, you will need to score at least a 70% lesson mastery grade to pass and complete the course.
Udemy Online Candle Making Courses
Udemy offers several online candle making courses, from classes designed just for a beginner to advanced classes to learn how to establish a candle making business. The bestselling How to Make Candles - Candle Making for Beginners class is taught by Shona O'Connor. Students learn about types of waxes, candle molds, working with essential oils, colors and designs. You'll be given assignments and upon completion receive a certificate. The regular cost for the course is around $115. The course includes:
- 3 hours on-demand video
- 5 articles
- 6 downloadable resources
Finding Local Classes
If you want to get instruction in person, you may be able to find some candle making courses near you. Many craft stores and community colleges offer candle making classes for a small fee. A few places to go to find out what classes may in your area include:
- Groupon - You can conduct a search for candle making classes for your town or area and luck up on some great deals, such as 52% of regular class prices or better.
- Adult education classes - Local colleges, arts programs, or recreation departments may offer candle making classes as part of their adult education program. Check their class offerings when posted to see if any are nearby.
- Yelp - Visit Yelp and enter, "Candle Making Classes" and your city into the search fields. It will return any classes offered near you, as well as reviews from those who have tried them.
- Local craft stores - Some craft stores like Michaels, A.C. Moore and Joann offer a variety of classes year round. The schedule changes often and varies by location; call your local store to see if they are scheduling candle making soon.
- Library - Many libraries have information on classes given in your area, whether it is through the library itself, the town or a local community center.
Learn to Make Your Own Candles
Whether you take an online course, or you find a class in your area, learning to make candles can be a fun introduction to this hobby. Learn the basics or advance your skills with instruction from teachers who know a great deal about this craft.
