I'm going to chewed for this but I was a candle hobbyist for two years before I started my business and honestly I've been successful due to UA-cam videos and candle groups...not to be a copy cat but I took the recommendations given to me and it's worked for my brand. Perfect slow burns everytime. We live in an age of technology...why waste money on mistakes when you don't have to? Get on the internet and look at the diameter of your jars, see what wicks are compatible, what waxes and scents work well in combination. You'll be fine. Start you business, just be smart about it.
i completely agree. learning how to make a good candle isn’t that hard with the right research and products. the business portion is harder than the candle making, i feel.
Please share your tips from the recommendations you got and what candle groups to join. What’s your Instagram? I’m just starting my interest in candle making.
Hey Bria!! I’m just getting into candle making to add to my business as well and would love to know which UA-cam videos you recommend. I’ve been watching tons but still very unsure of which way to go. Please enlighten us beginners lol
I don’t agree with this. You should test test test before you give out any candles. Burn them for a long time, assume your customers won’t trim their wicks, how long do your candles last, how is the hot throw, do they melt to the perimeter of the jar. And giving out 80 candles? Sounds like a huge waste of money when you could be selling. Give away 20 candles and in return ask them for feedback so you can learn from it. Overall it’s progress over perfection.
Besides testing, getting perfect at making them and knowing your product inside and out. Do you know if there's any licenses or anything you have to get? I do know that every single one has to have a fire warning label on them. I ask because I intend to start getting into candle making. I'm looking to do a hundred percent organic a soy and coconut blend scented candles so any input you can give me would be greatly appreciated since I've never done anything like this
I know right..like give away 80 candles... especially now that everything is so 🤯. Thinking of making some 💵, try them yourself and family..but give away 80 candles ..
@@sarahcline8488 I’m in California and have a DBA and a sellers permit. Check with your city to ask what is required for an online retail business. I have this disclaimer on my candles plus include a warning label on the bottom. *Disclaimer - Each candle is handmade by me in small batches. Natural wood lids are stained and no two lids look the same. For safety, please follow wick instructions on the warning label located on the bottom of each jar. Trim wicks before each use.
Great advice. I just started making candles in Jan. I’ve never made them before and was kinda thrown into it. It’s now May and I have sold out of my candles at pop up shops, and in person sales. I sold out in 1 hour during my test launch!!!!
Amazing! I got into it a couple of months ago myself. I’m past my testing stage and have finally found my sweet spot in creating a candle I’m proud of with a smooth top. I hope I can launch by late summer, but it’s time to build inventory and then work on the business side. I wish you lots of success!
Never made a candle in my life and it's 2am. Just got done taking off an exhaust manifold on an engine with bolts that didn't want to come out in one piece, but now I'm prepared to go into the candle business if I ever choose to switch it up. Thanks, youtube algorithm?
I never knew anything about the “84 Candle Rule,” but it’s amazing that starting out i started with samples and giving them away which well over 84. I had a kit first and fell in love with the hobby & decided to research more outside of a kit. And after my sampling phase I kept perfecting the craft. Fast forward, I’m almost a year in business & have had 5 launches and all have sold out. Thank you for this video, because I’ve been doing it right all this time.
There’s loads of ways. Instagram, affiliate marketing links, having your own etsy shop (they also do ad’s for you too if you wanted to pay), shopify and so much more!
I'm just doing them to give away as blessings. It's something to do to help cope, I have Asperger's and this is calming. I don't actually like selling anything. When I create them with the intent of giving, they are way more enjoyable to make! And I use old candles and recycle and clean the wax and containers. Every candle I make us one of a kind.
I’m glad I watched this. I thought from the title it was discouraging but it’s actually really helpful! I’m thinking about adding candles to my business but now I know I need to get comfortable with the craft first. It will also give me a chance to just have fun with it without any pressure!
I joined an international candle making group and I was so shocked by how they make Americans appear so "Im gonna sue every little things". When they are talking about insurance, they said even when you give out gifts and youre just starting out get insurance because people sues, even friends. I find this scary.
I have type 2 bipolar disorder which comes with a LOT of hobbies. I'm also just an entrepreneurial person by nature so almost every hobby becomes a business endeavor (last night I was saying that Bourbon and Bow Ties could be dyed green or grey and marketed under the name You're So Vain) and I just gotta say: if I'd seen this video before I started crochet, knit, cardmaking, etc etc etc... I could have saved my family and myself a LOT of pain and trouble. From personal experience I can say it's basically impossible to learn a new business AND a new craft at the same time. Thank you for putting this out there and potentially saving the hearts and bank accounts of people like me!
I just wanted to say that this resonates so much with me... thank you for posting this. I have spent my whole life going from hobby to hobby to hobby and many of them have turned into business ventures that i can't keep up with. I hoard crafting supplies and feel like I never have enough time for all of my "talents". I have spent tens of thousands of dollars on every little supply I could possibly need, and then fail. This has helped me to see that maybe I need to talk to a therapist. I know this doesn't relate to the video, but thank you anyway for putting yourself out there; it's been helpful. ❤
I'm the same way! I have added and I've been hovering between starting a press on nail ship, candle shop , dog treat biz, etc. Now I'm just doing stuff for fun and seeing what I'd like to do on a constant basis while I learn about different ingredients,etc
omg your comment and the ones below also resonate with me... im constantly wanting to create and do all these things and often i have to tell myself to slow down and take it one step at a time. i feel like my head is bursting with ideas and creations and i just need to get it out. the issue is it rarely works out the way that i had pictured and down the drain goes my money and time lol. so, one step at a time.
Wow I am the same way, I go from hobby to hobby to hobby and get completely obsessed with it and buy a ton of stuff to learn how to do whatever, then move on to the next except I still do all the hobbies but just not totally obsessed and I usually don't try to start a business with then, I have done crocheting, knitting, sewing, skin care, gardening, bee keeping, puzzles and a lot of art stuff, like painting, making sculptors from clay, the dye, I am now trying to get better at drawling. I also am a collector so I collect a lot of stuff.
I’ve been making candles since the 1970s when I was a teen. I have skipped the testing because I’ve learned a lot about it in 50 years. I’ve perfected my craft. Now I need to learn how to sell & get cheap advertising on a 0 budget.
Love this so much and I cannot reiterate how many times you should make candles and test and reconfigure until you get something you are truly happy with. We kind of cheated in the sense of having two people in the business, one who is good at the craft/logistics and then the other who is good at sales/development. Thank you so much for sharing!
Most of the stuff that the 84 candles rule is teaching can be learned before buying it. Good advice but I believe that in this age of technology we really don’t need to do that because everyone is posting their mistakes, so we just learn from them.
Spot on advice. I've been at this for the last 5 years. Yes, I've made some really nice candles, but my curiosity gets the best of me and I am always trying out different waxes, F.O.s and wicks to see what works best with all of the choices. Early on, I tried mixing making with business...a big fat flop. So heed Kevin's advice. You'll be thanking him all along the way.
I don't understand why so many people are take issue with this video. It basically just tells you to make sure your skill is developed, and that you know how to do business before starting one.
Maybe not all agree he knows how to do business? UA-cam is full of business advisers for everything. Also his website is kinda tacky. Sorry about saying it....
Many people don't seem to understand the underlying "sales" or "business" advantage of giving away this many candles. It's basically the ultimate best way to get honnest feedback, especially if you give them to random people asking for their feedback. If you think this advice is stupid and you should start selling right away, you probably don't understand that asking money in exchange for a product that has not been properly tested and you want to try to improve after... has a high potential of ruining your future sales and reputation perspectives from the get go. Once the bad reviews are in and people start spreading the word your sub-optimal candles aren't worth it, it's very hard to come back. You're not an established brand facing a few bad reviews, you're just starting and chances are you'll get more bad reviews than good if you didn't do it right. In a business like that, where competition is very high and the choice of price/product is almost infinite, you absolutely want to have it all right from the get go.
Great video! I have probably made over 100 tests candles at this point 😩. I never thought going into this it would ever be like this, but I think I’ve finally gotten my formula down with the proper wicks for my jar that I like. I still have a lot more to do. When your patient and passionate about what you’re doing it will all work itself out. 😊 I’m never giving up.
While not making candles, I can apply this to the cold proccess soap I want to add to my product line. I'm deep into R&D right now and with a 4-6 week cure time trying different formulas and suppliers. My husband keeps asking when do I start selling and I keep reminding him not till next year some time.
I feel this message. I too am being pushed to sell, while I'm literally in the beginner stages still and I'm not comfortable with most of the formulas. I like to compare my soaps to quality old cheese, that's the only way i get people to understand i cannot just make something today and expect it to be sold tomorrow xD
Well, i mean if you have a decent budget to work with experiment with different wax, wicks, dyes etc, then i think the 84 rule is great but everyones budget is different. Testing is important, gifting "some" to family/friends to test, playing with scent combos, burn time etc, all important BUT i dont think it takes 84 to do that. My number is more along 25 as i have 5 different types that im going with 🤷🏿♀️, wishing much success to all out there!
I’m glad I stumbled across this video. My granddaughter an I thought it would be fun to make candles for her to give away at Christmas, and then possibly taking it a step further if she enjoyed it because she does have an entrepreneurial spirit. She even had a name chosen for her company. After doing a lot of research, including watching this video, she’ll be giving baked goods for Christmas this year then spend the next year doing more research and making samples. Hopefully in a year or two she’ll be able to launch her candle business. Thank you for all the tips!
I’ve just come across your channel after having a few small problems with my new candle making business, and you have made my day! I’ve spent about an hour binge watching your videos and I’ve learnt so much! THANK YOU SO MUCH!✨
I'm so glad I stumbled onto this video. I have so many ideas for things that I want to do and create that I almost feel pressured to pick just one and monetize it. This actually made me realize that...no, I don't have to do that at all. I can play around with an idea, experiment and explore a little, have fun with it...then move on if I want. I can make candles if I enjoy it and if I don't I can put that down and pick up something else and I don't have to feel pressured to learn a new hobby AND make a business out of it at the same time. I can and SHOULD give myself time to find out if it's something I truly enjoy long before I even entertain making it a business. Phew...I feel so relieved!
I’m currently bingeing your videos as I begin my journey toward a candle company. Your presentation, editing and conveyance of information is incredible! You sir deserve far more than 9k subs! See you at 100k!
Too many people out there prepare too much. Some prep is important such as knowing the types of candles you plan to make, the materials and the kinds of wax and scents etc yes but don't wait too long. Just do it. You will learn with time how to perfect your craft and you'll find people are pretty forgiving when you are offering something unique for their shopping experience. Just trust yourself and take action! The 84 rule is silly. The people you give it to will just resell them and act like they made them.
👍Good advice. My candle making is for me, I reuse the great jars from purchased candles, I remelt & use the parts that didn’t burn, I burn them in my kitchen sink for safety. They cover cooking & dog smells. But I really appreciate buying them instead of making my own. There’s finally more variety not just flowers or holiday candles. I hope people will keep selling them.
The idea of 84 is also silly if you plan to specialize in just one sort of candle. If people want to offer like a hundred items this might have some validity but not much. Like I said plan your budget plan your materials and know how you're going to ship and all the other details and then just get busy making candles and listing them. It worked for me!!
Great video! I have watched MANY videos about starting and maintaining a candle business but this was like a gold nugget! Especially for me, thanks for this!!
Excellent! I started with a kit I recently purchased. I'm going to givevit a try but my goals are for trying different waxes, fragrances and air freshening oils for eliminating odors.
Candle-making like any kind of artistic endeavor is not a science but an art. You can't tie it to a step-by-step procedure that works for everyone. Specialize in certain kinds of candles and there will be no need to test that many before you start selling. You can always expand later. It's not a factory model type process. It's a creative process. Just make great art. People will buy it.
I stumbled upon this video and it is beneficial. I came into candle-making more as a hobby first. I believe in getting good at something before even attempting to sell anything.
I’m not saying this advice isn’t for some people but I’m not going to give away 84 free candles. I made my first batch of 40, tested 1 before selling them, and we have sold 24 already. The business side is no problem for me so that is coming along pretty easy too. I do have a background in supply chain so I use that knowledge to help me out
Great video. Thank you so much. I have been making candles for a while for myself and for gifts, basically because I kinda have free wax. I have bee hives, so side of bees is wax.
PREACH!! Having been making candles for almost a decade, it's very frustrating when you're in a "candle group" and someone comes in and says they haven't made one candle yet, but they're starting a candle business and then ask you to share your years of experience with them. I've literally put years of time, research, testing and money into my business to make it what it is. These folks thinking a candle kit and the want to run a candle business is all they need, then ask you for all your trade secrets, only to get snippy with you, makes you wonder about what kind of candle business they actually want to run. This isn't a "get rich quick" business at all. Between learning how to run an actual business, and planning ahead for things like the shortages we've been experiencing in raw materials and goods, then the testing of every vessel, wick, wax and fragrance oil... well after thousands of dollars and time... it's expensive, it's time consuming and simple candle kit does not make a business. OK, I'm done now... LOL
Couldn’t agree more! I’m fearful for those that get ahead of themselves and ship something to someone that isn’t safe or well tested. Or tested at all 🙈
So negative. Dream spoilers. Everyone starts some where. People don't know that why people should drop the privileged arrogance and offer true and correct advice. Of course you can just say no like the rest of their competitors. Most people without business experience start without reasonable expectations.
If they are online watching that means they are at least trying to learn or get education on the craft right? 👀 Gosh. The negative energy.... Clicking off. So many more positive channels that offer help without bashing.
Yes yes yes. This goes for any product you are developing to market. I crank socks and have had rejects eventually designed acceptable socks and gave most away to friends and family to gauge size fit etc… make yourself confident to price when ready to go!
Thanks for the educational info…because I was about to just go and get some candle making items and just go in it blind… with me watching this video… I can now think about how,what, when,and where I will start the candle making process…. Thanks again for the video
Surely before you give any away you need to test them for safety ,performance,ht etc…lv made way more than 84 but only givin away 2 ..l need to test every feckin one before l feel confident it won’t explode or do weird stuff …power burns etc..giving them away doesn’t exempt you from responsibility..like you still need insurance and proof of due diligence right. So do you mean after your own testing..which could run into hundreds ..then the rule of 84 .
I've been trying to research how a candle would "explode." Could you be more specific? Is "explosion" happening while burning a finished product or are you referring to the way the candle is made that leads to the explosion?
When I first got into candle making I saw this video and I was like yeah right. So I had to come back about 80 candles later and say, you were right. 🤣
I mean I get the idea to this and it’s great, but I don’t you need to spend a load and make thattt many lol.. if you already know what you want to make and like if you’ve been buying candles all your life, I don’t need to make a pillar, soy wax good aroma fragrances is my favorite... def going to look into that vid on the how they should burn etc, and test out a good amount to get it perfect tho 🙏🏽
Great advice. I did this with my soap Buisness tested for over a year and gave out samples. Not I have customers for life. Test test test. Get feedback. Adjust.
I figure at this point I need to make candles for a year at once a week or fortnight. That way I will be able to test between 26 and 52 candles. And spending my spare time researching, watching videos and buying supplies online. I have no interest in selling for at last a year and I’ve already given away six candles. I’m enjoying it so much! I do want to make quality candles
i have leard so much from your videos. you are precise and i understand what you say. tyvm sorry i just looked at the class for candles. i only make 1000 a month because of disability. the reason i want to sell candles at farmers markets and bazaars
I actually have your class, and have just started testing out the basics of getting started with my correct weights and everything. I've only made 12 so far, but right now, I'm just trying to perfect the weight and scent profile of one scent before moving on to add more. I haven't even done testing yet, because my 2 weeks isn't up for curing. lol. It's a really relaxing hobby for my anxiety though, and I am a bit OCD when it comes to trying to perfect things. Eventually, I want to be able to sell, but right now I'm just focused on perfecting my candle to my standards...which are pretty high. lol
@@ArmatageCandleCompany I have read in multiple places that the max % of FO is 10% for the NatureWax C-3 Wax, however, the batch I ordered from Northstar Country Candle says theirs' is a 6% max? Is there a reason it's lower than the 10%?
Watching these while making candles I got a big order bought everything plus even business cards brand stamp packaging and all ,just here to keep on learning hope I don’t make lots of mistakes 😅 I feel a bit scare tho lol
What am I hearing here ….. everyone can start this if u are a bit creative and artistic is very easy ! U can start small make for u or for your friends etc and u can promote them on ur you tube channel as well. And slowly slowly u can make it !
I've worked in physics labs for experiments back in college... This is my alley. I've spent about $300 for basic candle making. I think i'll need to spend another 200-300 dollars for the wax melter. Also, I use Mason Jars. Target sells them cheap, but I can't seem to buy them in bulk. Anyone know how to buy them directly from manufacturer?
This is inspirational! I’ve been wanting to try different waxes and wicks and thoroughly test them out. Love to update my little shop with more candles. ☺️
do you mean 84 candles in total, ie 6 different scents in different vessels, different sizes different waxes etc, love this idea .. im up to 35 been giving them away, great for market research too !
Haha I hadn't even thought about the market research part, but probably because that makes the work more business-centric, and the heart of the rule is to create 84 with no attention paid to that. With regards to your question, it's 84 total indiscreetly made. The trick of the rule is you typically end up with an understanding of what it really takes to create a quality product and will no doubt end up soaring above 84 by the time you consider launching anything.
Hi! I've just started making candles, I was wondering if starting with tealights and sending them to friends/family etc is a good idea, especially to keep the initial costs down whilst i'm trying to narrow down the scents to use. I'm using essential oils as trying to keep everything natural and eco friendly and trying different scents :) thank you for your videos btw they are super helpful!
Thank you for the 84 Candle Principles and rules Feels like I'm back at school writing everything down trying to get all the knowledge others have especially yours since you already own your business ! New Subscriber just seen it in my new feeds so going to watch and learn all I can before I start my candle buisness! Thank you so very much again!!!
Super helpful video, makes perfect sense to learn the craft as the foundation upon which to build a successful, sustainable business. Thank you for sharing!
Very useful video! Unfortunately, there is very little information in russian on UA-cam, and I am grateful to such channels as yours for sharing really useful information about the candle business. I do not know English very well, but due to the fact that candles are my new hobby and I am interested in learning more information about it, I have to learn English, it's cool)))
Hello.Thanks for great video. The candle that I buy from the shop is 25gr but the candle that I make myself is 42 gr.The shape and the weight are the same.I use paraffin and steorin.What can I use to make it lighter?
I'm going to chewed for this but I was a candle hobbyist for two years before I started my business and honestly I've been successful due to UA-cam videos and candle groups...not to be a copy cat but I took the recommendations given to me and it's worked for my brand. Perfect slow burns everytime. We live in an age of technology...why waste money on mistakes when you don't have to? Get on the internet and look at the diameter of your jars, see what wicks are compatible, what waxes and scents work well in combination. You'll be fine. Start you business, just be smart about it.
i completely agree. learning how to make a good candle isn’t that hard with the right research and products. the business portion is harder than the candle making, i feel.
Please share your tips from the recommendations you got and what candle groups to join. What’s your Instagram? I’m just starting my interest in candle making.
Hey Bria!! I’m just getting into candle making to add to my business as well and would love to know which UA-cam videos you recommend. I’ve been watching tons but still very unsure of which way to go. Please enlighten us beginners lol
It would be nice and helpful to everyone if you could share the links to the UA-cam videos you said you watched.
Everyone wants to know.
I don’t agree with this. You should test test test before you give out any candles. Burn them for a long time, assume your customers won’t trim their wicks, how long do your candles last, how is the hot throw, do they melt to the perimeter of the jar. And giving out 80 candles? Sounds like a huge waste of money when you could be selling. Give away 20 candles and in return ask them for feedback so you can learn from it. Overall it’s progress over perfection.
Besides testing, getting perfect at making them and knowing your product inside and out. Do you know if there's any licenses or anything you have to get?
I do know that every single one has to have a fire warning label on them. I ask because I intend to start getting into candle making. I'm looking to do a hundred percent organic a soy and coconut blend scented candles so any input you can give me would be greatly appreciated since I've never done anything like this
Sarah Cline I don't know if it's a requirement to put warning labels on a candle but would do it just in case. It's always best to have them
@@franka.merola1001 I plan to better safe than sorry
I know right..like give away 80 candles... especially now that everything is so 🤯. Thinking of making some 💵, try them yourself and family..but give away 80 candles ..
@@sarahcline8488 I’m in California and have a DBA and a sellers permit. Check with your city to ask what is required for an online retail business. I have this disclaimer on my candles plus include a warning label on the bottom.
*Disclaimer - Each candle is handmade by me in small batches. Natural wood lids are stained and no two lids look the same. For safety, please follow wick instructions on the warning label located on the bottom of each jar. Trim wicks before each use.
Great advice. I just started making candles in Jan. I’ve never made them before and was kinda thrown into it. It’s now May and I have sold out of my candles at pop up shops, and in person sales. I sold out in 1 hour during my test launch!!!!
Amazing! I got into it a couple of months ago myself. I’m past my testing stage and have finally found my sweet spot in creating a candle I’m proud of with a smooth top. I hope I can launch by late summer, but it’s time to build inventory and then work on the business side. I wish you lots of success!
@@milkteawithboba2629 thank you
Kinya nicole
How many were in your batch and how much did you sell them for?
@@kinyanicole omg congratulations!! How did you do it?
I’m already up to 45 and still doing my tests and making my choices! Super fun and each batch just gets better and better
Haha that’s awesome! Keep up the incredible work (and send me some testers)
@@ArmatageCandleCompany don’t you tempt me or it WILL happen lol!
@@nicole8553well yeah I don't think he was just saying that
39 to go
Never made a candle in my life and it's 2am. Just got done taking off an exhaust manifold on an engine with bolts that didn't want to come out in one piece, but now I'm prepared to go into the candle business if I ever choose to switch it up. Thanks, youtube algorithm?
I feel it I’m a mechanic but was trying to find something to sell on the side and ended up at this video lol ps was it a dodge? They like to do that
I never knew anything about the “84 Candle Rule,” but it’s amazing that starting out i started with samples and giving them away which well over 84. I had a kit first and fell in love with the hobby & decided to research more outside of a kit. And after my sampling phase I kept perfecting the craft. Fast forward, I’m almost a year in business & have had 5 launches and all have sold out. Thank you for this video, because I’ve been doing it right all this time.
How did you advertise your business? I am just starting out and struggling with the business side :(
@@sakeena73 Shopify
There’s loads of ways. Instagram, affiliate marketing links, having your own etsy shop (they also do ad’s for you too if you wanted to pay), shopify and so much more!
I'm just doing them to give away as blessings. It's something to do to help cope, I have Asperger's and this is calming. I don't actually like selling anything. When I create them with the intent of giving, they are way more enjoyable to make! And I use old candles and recycle and clean the wax and containers. Every candle I make us one of a kind.
I’m glad I watched this. I thought from the title it was discouraging but it’s actually really helpful! I’m thinking about adding candles to my business but now I know I need to get comfortable with the craft first. It will also give me a chance to just have fun with it without any pressure!
Me too I was about to click off 😂
I’ve just hit my 65 candle mark! And still learning new skills and techniques.. thank you for this video.
Congrats! Keep going!
yooo can you share your website?
Hit my 480-candles mark... (quite excited!) still learning but not perfect.
Is this a normal part of the journey?
I joined an international candle making group and I was so shocked by how they make Americans appear so "Im gonna sue every little things". When they are talking about insurance, they said even when you give out gifts and youre just starting out get insurance because people sues, even friends. I find this scary.
I ordered every type of wax there is out there. I am using no fragrance to wicks to start. Just learning the wax. It’s building the right foundation.
I have type 2 bipolar disorder which comes with a LOT of hobbies. I'm also just an entrepreneurial person by nature so almost every hobby becomes a business endeavor (last night I was saying that Bourbon and Bow Ties could be dyed green or grey and marketed under the name You're So Vain) and I just gotta say: if I'd seen this video before I started crochet, knit, cardmaking, etc etc etc... I could have saved my family and myself a LOT of pain and trouble. From personal experience I can say it's basically impossible to learn a new business AND a new craft at the same time. Thank you for putting this out there and potentially saving the hearts and bank accounts of people like me!
Wow thank you for sharing that. I appreciate your honesty, attention, and passion for what you do!
I just wanted to say that this resonates so much with me... thank you for posting this. I have spent my whole life going from hobby to hobby to hobby and many of them have turned into business ventures that i can't keep up with. I hoard crafting supplies and feel like I never have enough time for all of my "talents". I have spent tens of thousands of dollars on every little supply I could possibly need, and then fail. This has helped me to see that maybe I need to talk to a therapist. I know this doesn't relate to the video, but thank you anyway for putting yourself out there; it's been helpful. ❤
I'm the same way! I have added and I've been hovering between starting a press on nail ship, candle shop , dog treat biz, etc. Now I'm just doing stuff for fun and seeing what I'd like to do on a constant basis while I learn about different ingredients,etc
omg your comment and the ones below also resonate with me... im constantly wanting to create and do all these things and often i have to tell myself to slow down and take it one step at a time. i feel like my head is bursting with ideas and creations and i just need to get it out. the issue is it rarely works out the way that i had pictured and down the drain goes my money and time lol. so, one step at a time.
Wow I am the same way, I go from hobby to hobby to hobby and get completely obsessed with it and buy a ton of stuff to learn how to do whatever, then move on to the next except I still do all the hobbies but just not totally obsessed and I usually don't try to start a business with then, I have done crocheting, knitting, sewing, skin care, gardening, bee keeping, puzzles and a lot of art stuff, like painting, making sculptors from clay, the dye, I am now trying to get better at drawling.
I also am a collector so I collect a lot of stuff.
I’ve been making candles since the 1970s when I was a teen. I have skipped the testing because I’ve learned a lot about it in 50 years. I’ve perfected my craft. Now I need to learn how to sell & get cheap advertising on a 0 budget.
Super fans make great advertisers.
Maybe you open a Instagram page...
TikTok is definitely a great start!
do you have a website?
Start a UA-cam channel !!!
Love this so much and I cannot reiterate how many times you should make candles and test and reconfigure until you get something you are truly happy with. We kind of cheated in the sense of having two people in the business, one who is good at the craft/logistics and then the other who is good at sales/development. Thank you so much for sharing!
Brilliant!
Most of the stuff that the 84 candles rule is teaching can be learned before buying it. Good advice but I believe that in this age of technology we really don’t need to do that because everyone is posting their mistakes, so we just learn from them.
Exactly what I was trying to tell people.. i want to learn the craft and provide a quality product.
Spot on advice. I've been at this for the last 5 years. Yes, I've made some really nice candles, but my curiosity gets the best of me and I am always trying out different waxes, F.O.s and wicks to see what works best with all of the choices. Early on, I tried mixing making with business...a big fat flop. So heed Kevin's advice. You'll be thanking him all along the way.
I really appreciate you sharing this. Thank you!
I don't understand why so many people are take issue with this video.
It basically just tells you to make sure your skill is developed, and that you know how to do business before starting one.
Nailed it.
Maybe not all agree he knows how to do business? UA-cam is full of business advisers for everything. Also his website is kinda tacky. Sorry about saying it....
Many people don't seem to understand the underlying "sales" or "business" advantage of giving away this many candles. It's basically the ultimate best way to get honnest feedback, especially if you give them to random people asking for their feedback.
If you think this advice is stupid and you should start selling right away, you probably don't understand that asking money in exchange for a product that has not been properly tested and you want to try to improve after... has a high potential of ruining your future sales and reputation perspectives from the get go.
Once the bad reviews are in and people start spreading the word your sub-optimal candles aren't worth it, it's very hard to come back. You're not an established brand facing a few bad reviews, you're just starting and chances are you'll get more bad reviews than good if you didn't do it right.
In a business like that, where competition is very high and the choice of price/product is almost infinite, you absolutely want to have it all right from the get go.
Couldn't agree more. Feedback is everything, and iterations are expensive once you're officially launched.
Great video! I have probably made over 100 tests candles at this point 😩. I never thought going into this it would ever be like this, but I think I’ve finally gotten my formula down with the proper wicks for my jar that I like. I still have a lot more to do. When your patient and passionate about what you’re doing it will all work itself out. 😊 I’m never giving up.
ehyyy can you share your website?
While not making candles, I can apply this to the cold proccess soap I want to add to my product line. I'm deep into R&D right now and with a 4-6 week cure time trying different formulas and suppliers. My husband keeps asking when do I start selling and I keep reminding him not till next year some time.
I feel this message. I too am being pushed to sell, while I'm literally in the beginner stages still and I'm not comfortable with most of the formulas. I like to compare my soaps to quality old cheese, that's the only way i get people to understand i cannot just make something today and expect it to be sold tomorrow xD
Well, i mean if you have a decent budget to work with experiment with different wax, wicks, dyes etc, then i think the 84 rule is great but everyones budget is different. Testing is important, gifting "some" to family/friends to test, playing with scent combos, burn time etc, all important BUT i dont think it takes 84 to do that. My number is more along 25 as i have 5 different types that im going with 🤷🏿♀️, wishing much success to all out there!
I’m glad I stumbled across this video. My granddaughter an I thought it would be fun to make candles for her to give away at Christmas, and then possibly taking it a step further if she enjoyed it because she does have an entrepreneurial spirit. She even had a name chosen for her company. After doing a lot of research, including watching this video, she’ll be giving baked goods for Christmas this year then spend the next year doing more research and making samples. Hopefully in a year or two she’ll be able to launch her candle business. Thank you for all the tips!
Didn’t take me nearly that long. It’s common since mixed with art and science. I’m sure life experience definitely plays a part in this.
I’ve just come across your channel after having a few small problems with my new candle making business, and you have made my day! I’ve spent about an hour binge watching your videos and I’ve learnt so much! THANK YOU SO MUCH!✨
You’re super welcome!!
This is amazing I have decided to begin making candles. And honestly I think this rule can apply to most businesses. Thank you.
How's your business ma'am?
I'm so glad I stumbled onto this video. I have so many ideas for things that I want to do and create that I almost feel pressured to pick just one and monetize it. This actually made me realize that...no, I don't have to do that at all. I can play around with an idea, experiment and explore a little, have fun with it...then move on if I want. I can make candles if I enjoy it and if I don't I can put that down and pick up something else and I don't have to feel pressured to learn a new hobby AND make a business out of it at the same time. I can and SHOULD give myself time to find out if it's something I truly enjoy long before I even entertain making it a business. Phew...I feel so relieved!
I absolutely love your insight. Thank you for sharing that!
This is great one of my 2002 goals to make candles 🕯 I will use your advice
I’m currently bingeing your videos as I begin my journey toward a candle company. Your presentation, editing and conveyance of information is incredible! You sir deserve far more than 9k subs! See you at 100k!
You're too kind! (also feel free to share with others hehe)
This is a whole different type of video on candle making, I appreciate this advice!
I'm glad you find it helpful! It's so important to distinguish the craft from the business.
His video and everyone's comments were GREAT! Thank you everyone. I'll start promoting on my channel this year.
Too many people out there prepare too much. Some prep is important such as knowing the types of candles you plan to make, the materials and the kinds of wax and scents etc yes but don't wait too long. Just do it. You will learn with time how to perfect your craft and you'll find people are pretty forgiving when you are offering something unique for their shopping experience. Just trust yourself and take action! The 84 rule is silly. The people you give it to will just resell them and act like they made them.
👍Good advice. My candle making is for me, I reuse the great jars from purchased candles, I remelt & use the parts that didn’t burn, I burn them in my kitchen sink for safety. They cover cooking & dog smells.
But I really appreciate buying them instead of making my own. There’s finally more variety not just flowers or holiday candles. I hope people will keep selling them.
The idea of 84 is also silly if you plan to specialize in just one sort of candle. If people want to offer like a hundred items this might have some validity but not much. Like I said plan your budget plan your materials and know how you're going to ship and all the other details and then just get busy making candles and listing them. It worked for me!!
Great video! I've been making candles for 6 months now and I do wholesale i also have a store inside the mall
I'm just starting out. Still learning to make my candles. So far, so good
Great video! I have watched MANY videos about starting and maintaining a candle business but this was like a gold nugget! Especially for me, thanks for this!!
I really love using resin and I have thousands of silicone molds and I was just wondering if I can use some of my molds to make candles with
Yeah our first weekend opening and we damn near Sold out. Over 500 in profit. Just started in July
I have no desire to start a candle business and have never considered making candles.
Somehow, I found this video.
Excellent! I started with a kit I recently purchased. I'm going to givevit a try but my goals are for trying different waxes, fragrances and air freshening oils for eliminating odors.
Candle-making like any kind of artistic endeavor is not a science but an art. You can't tie it to a step-by-step procedure that works for everyone. Specialize in certain kinds of candles and there will be no need to test that many before you start selling. You can always expand later. It's not a factory model type process. It's a creative process. Just make great art. People will buy it.
I stumbled upon this video and it is beneficial. I came into candle-making more as a hobby first. I believe in getting good at something before even attempting to sell anything.
I’m not even 30 seconds in, and I feel very intimidated and intrigued by your intensity
😬
Excellent advice my friend. It works just like music does. You have to practice your craft before you can expect to make money off of it.
Summed up the entire video with that.
The best way to learn is just doing it on your own learning from your mistakes you are your own teacher.
I love your rules. I think I have already pass 84. Seems I am ready now.
I’m not saying this advice isn’t for some people but I’m not going to give away 84 free candles. I made my first batch of 40, tested 1 before selling them, and we have sold 24 already. The business side is no problem for me so that is coming along pretty easy too. I do have a background in supply chain so I use that knowledge to help me out
Very good advice. The title was a bit misleading. I was hesitant to watch, but I’m glad I did!
Great video. Thank you so much. I have been making candles for a while for myself and for gifts, basically because I kinda have free wax. I have bee hives, so side of bees is wax.
This is great advice! Actually, it applies perfectly to soapmaking as well. So this is great for both candlemakers and Bath and body makers.
One of the best videos!!! Finally somebody talks that you have to perfect candle making before selling it!
PREACH!! Having been making candles for almost a decade, it's very frustrating when you're in a "candle group" and someone comes in and says they haven't made one candle yet, but they're starting a candle business and then ask you to share your years of experience with them. I've literally put years of time, research, testing and money into my business to make it what it is. These folks thinking a candle kit and the want to run a candle business is all they need, then ask you for all your trade secrets, only to get snippy with you, makes you wonder about what kind of candle business they actually want to run. This isn't a "get rich quick" business at all. Between learning how to run an actual business, and planning ahead for things like the shortages we've been experiencing in raw materials and goods, then the testing of every vessel, wick, wax and fragrance oil... well after thousands of dollars and time... it's expensive, it's time consuming and simple candle kit does not make a business. OK, I'm done now... LOL
Couldn’t agree more! I’m fearful for those that get ahead of themselves and ship something to someone that isn’t safe or well tested. Or tested at all 🙈
Right!
PREACH!!!!
So negative. Dream spoilers. Everyone starts some where. People don't know that why people should drop the privileged arrogance and offer true and correct advice. Of course you can just say no like the rest of their competitors. Most people without business experience start without reasonable expectations.
If they are online watching that means they are at least trying to learn or get education on the craft right? 👀 Gosh. The negative energy.... Clicking off. So many more positive channels that offer help without bashing.
Yaaasss! Totally agree! Where the rubber meets the road. Quality products first! Thanks again 🕯👍🏽
Yes yes yes. This goes for any product you are developing to market. I crank socks and have had rejects eventually designed acceptable socks and gave most away to friends and family to gauge size fit etc… make yourself confident to price when ready to go!
I probably only made about six or seven before I started my successful Etsy business.
Thanks for the educational info…because I was about to just go and get some candle making items and just go in it blind… with me watching this video… I can now think about how,what, when,and where I will start the candle making process…. Thanks again for the video
EXCELLENT SUGGESTIONS...👌
KINDLY, SHARE FEW POINTS FOR PRECAUTIONS LABEL TO BE PASTED ON CONTAINERS ..
Surely before you give any away you need to test them for safety ,performance,ht etc…lv made way more than 84 but only givin away 2 ..l need to test every feckin one before l feel confident it won’t explode or do weird stuff …power burns etc..giving them away doesn’t exempt you from responsibility..like you still need insurance and proof of due diligence right. So do you mean after your own testing..which could run into hundreds ..then the rule of 84 .
I've been trying to research how a candle would "explode." Could you be more specific? Is "explosion" happening while burning a finished product or are you referring to the way the candle is made that leads to the explosion?
Great advice! Also explains why there are so many crappy candles on the shelves 😂…ppl out here staring business before they properly learn the craft
When I first got into candle making I saw this video and I was like yeah right. So I had to come back about 80 candles later and say, you were right. 🤣
😂
I’m so thankful I ran across your channel. I have been looking for a really good teacher!!!
I mean I get the idea to this and it’s great, but I don’t you need to spend a load and make thattt many lol.. if you already know what you want to make and like if you’ve been buying candles all your life, I don’t need to make a pillar, soy wax good aroma fragrances is my favorite... def going to look into that vid on the how they should burn etc, and test out a good amount to get it perfect tho 🙏🏽
Great advice. I did this with my soap Buisness tested for over a year and gave out samples. Not I have customers for life. Test test test. Get feedback. Adjust.
I like the way you thought it all out
I figure at this point I need to make candles for a year at once a week or fortnight. That way I will be able to test between 26 and 52 candles. And spending my spare time researching, watching videos and buying supplies online. I have no interest in selling for at last a year and I’ve already given away six candles. I’m enjoying it so much! I do want to make quality candles
Thank you so much those 7 minutes were so helpful you got me thinking about things that didn't even enter my head
thank you soo much for this explanation it all makes soo much sense and i would have never even thought of it this way
such a great rule. I've been making my candles like crazy just trying to see what people love and they're great gifts :)
i have leard so much from your videos. you are precise and i understand what you say. tyvm sorry i just looked at the class for candles. i only make 1000 a month because of disability. the reason i want to sell candles at farmers markets and bazaars
Great advice, even for those of us who are planning to make a completely different product.
This is the best advice I have gotten in a long time for more than just even candles! This could work for so much. I appreciate this so much thank you
Questions!!! I have a lot of sublimation glasses. Can I make candles in them???
Nice 84 candle making video, wish i could do tht, where can i get the supplies, what are the essentials?
Great information, I'm scrambling now to learn the marketing and business side.
I actually have your class, and have just started testing out the basics of getting started with my correct weights and everything. I've only made 12 so far, but right now, I'm just trying to perfect the weight and scent profile of one scent before moving on to add more. I haven't even done testing yet, because my 2 weeks isn't up for curing. lol. It's a really relaxing hobby for my anxiety though, and I am a bit OCD when it comes to trying to perfect things. Eventually, I want to be able to sell, but right now I'm just focused on perfecting my candle to my standards...which are pretty high. lol
I love it. Keep the high standards and nag me if anything doesn’t make sense!
@@ArmatageCandleCompany I have read in multiple places that the max % of FO is 10% for the NatureWax C-3 Wax, however, the batch I ordered from Northstar Country Candle says theirs' is a 6% max? Is there a reason it's lower than the 10%?
I don't know if anyone else feels this way but addicted to the melt and pour? Something about melting wax in bulk 🤤
New to candle making and I think this is very good advice. Thank you.
Not everyone agrees!
That's a great idea. I wanted to start but didn't know how. Focusing on the craft is wonderful, thanks 😊
I can make great candles with a melting pot. But when I use the big wax boiler. I don't get a hot throw and I'm so confused
im excited to start my first 84 candles and give them away ☺️
I test my cement jars and how long it burns it’s perfect
Watching these while making candles I got a big order bought everything plus even business cards brand stamp packaging and all ,just here to keep on learning hope I don’t make lots of mistakes 😅 I feel a bit scare tho lol
What am I hearing here ….. everyone can start this if u are a bit creative and artistic is very easy !
U can start small make for u or for your friends etc and u can promote them on ur you tube channel as well. And slowly slowly u can make it !
I've worked in physics labs for experiments back in college...
This is my alley.
I've spent about $300 for basic candle making.
I think i'll need to spend another 200-300 dollars for the wax melter.
Also, I use Mason Jars. Target sells them cheap, but I can't seem to buy them in bulk. Anyone know how to buy them directly from manufacturer?
This is inspirational! I’ve been wanting to try different waxes and wicks and thoroughly test them out. Love to update my little shop with more candles. ☺️
do you mean 84 candles in total, ie 6 different scents in different vessels, different sizes different waxes etc, love this idea .. im up to 35 been giving them away, great for market research too !
Haha I hadn't even thought about the market research part, but probably because that makes the work more business-centric, and the heart of the rule is to create 84 with no attention paid to that.
With regards to your question, it's 84 total indiscreetly made. The trick of the rule is you typically end up with an understanding of what it really takes to create a quality product and will no doubt end up soaring above 84 by the time you consider launching anything.
Hi! I've just started making candles, I was wondering if starting with tealights and sending them to friends/family etc is a good idea, especially to keep the initial costs down whilst i'm trying to narrow down the scents to use. I'm using essential oils as trying to keep everything natural and eco friendly and trying different scents :) thank you for your videos btw they are super helpful!
I think I have made more candles via testing different combinations of waxes/wicks/FOs that have burnt wrong - than giving any away
Thank you for the 84 Candle Principles and rules Feels like I'm back at school writing everything down trying to get all the knowledge others have especially yours since you already own your business ! New Subscriber just seen it in my new feeds so going to watch and learn all I can before I start my candle buisness! Thank you so very much again!!!
This was awesome .. as a first day person that wants to start a journey
Super helpful video, makes perfect sense to learn the craft as the foundation upon which to build a successful, sustainable business. Thank you for sharing!
Are you guys going to be having a sale on the course again?
Very useful video! Unfortunately, there is very little information in russian on UA-cam, and I am grateful to such channels as yours for sharing really useful information about the candle business.
I do not know English very well, but due to the fact that candles are my new hobby and I am interested in learning more information about it, I have to learn English, it's cool)))
Hello.Thanks for great video.
The candle that I buy from the shop is 25gr but the candle that I make myself is 42 gr.The shape and the weight are the same.I use paraffin and steorin.What can I use to make it lighter?
How do I measure the percentage of the fragrance oil?
Everything in this video made sense. Good thing I watched this.
New follower / subscriber here. I appreciate your content. Thx for sharing
God I thought it would discourage me but it will inspire me to make these kind of business,thank you
Yea, but shouldn't you start with candle making kit or just jump straight into it?
Love this. I feel like I need to do this.