8 Candle Making Books
Diving into the world of candle making starts with the right resources, and books remain one of the most comprehensive ways to learn this craft. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to expand your skills, candle making books offer structured guidance, expert tips, and creative inspiration that online tutorials sometimes lack. From understanding wax types to mastering scent blending, these books cover everything you need to transform your candle making hobby into a passion or even a business.
The following collection represents some of the most valuable candle making books available today. Each offers unique perspectives, techniques, and approaches to help you develop your skills and create beautiful, fragrant candles that you’ll be proud to display or gift to others.
1. The Complete Guide to Candle Making by Natalie Birkley
This comprehensive guide has become a staple for beginners and intermediate candle makers alike. Birkley walks readers through the entire process from selecting materials to troubleshooting common issues.
The book includes detailed instructions for various candle types, including container candles, pillars, tapers, and decorative designs. What sets this book apart is its focus on natural ingredients and environmentally friendly practices.
Pros:
| Beginner-friendly with clear step-by-step instructions |
| Excellent photography and visual guides |
| Includes sections on natural and eco-friendly candle making |
Cons:
| Some advanced techniques could use more detail |
| Limited information on starting a candle business |
2. The Art, Craft, and Economics of Soap and Candle Making and Selling by Ellie Sharpe
For those interested in turning their candle making hobby into a business, this book provides invaluable guidance. Sharpe combines practical candle making techniques with business strategies, marketing advice, and financial considerations.
The book covers everything from creating signature scents to pricing your products appropriately and establishing an online presence. The business sections include advice on branding, packaging, and selling at craft fairs and online marketplaces.
Pros:
| Comprehensive business advice specific to candle making |
| Includes practical worksheets and planning tools |
| Covers both soap and candle making for diversified product lines |
Cons:
| Less detailed on advanced candle making techniques |
| Some business advice may need updating for current markets |
3. Candle Making for Beginners by Stephanie Schacht
Perfect for first-time candle makers, this book breaks down the craft into manageable steps with clear explanations of terminology and techniques. Schacht focuses on building confidence through simple projects before advancing to more complex designs.
The book includes 30 beginner-friendly projects with varying difficulty levels, allowing readers to progressively build their skills. Each project comes with a complete materials list, time estimates, and troubleshooting tips.
Pros:
| Excellent glossary of candle making terms |
| Progressive learning approach with skill-building projects |
| Includes safety information and precautions |
Cons:
| Limited information on advanced techniques |
| Some projects use similar methods with slight variations |
4. The Encyclopedia of Candle Making Techniques by Catherine Bardey
This comprehensive reference book covers virtually every candle making technique imaginable. Bardey’s approach is methodical and detailed, making this book suitable for both beginners and experienced crafters looking to expand their repertoire.
The encyclopedia format makes it easy to look up specific techniques or troubleshoot problems. The book includes extensive sections on different wax types, wicks, molds, colors, and scents, along with their appropriate applications.
Pros:
| Comprehensive coverage of numerous techniques |
| Excellent reference format for quick problem-solving |
| Detailed information on materials and their properties |
Cons:
| Less project-oriented than other books |
| Dense information may overwhelm absolute beginners |
5. Soy & Beeswax Candle Making Handbook by Sally Hornsey
For those interested in natural candle making, Hornsey’s book focuses exclusively on soy and beeswax candles. The author provides in-depth information on sourcing quality natural ingredients and working with these sometimes challenging wax types.
The book includes recipes for container candles, melts, and molded designs specifically formulated for natural waxes. There’s also excellent information on natural colorants and essential oil blending for scent.
Pros:
| Specialized focus on natural waxes and ingredients |
| Excellent scent blending guide for essential oils |
| Environmentally conscious approach throughout |
Cons:
| Limited coverage of paraffin and other wax types |
| Some techniques require specialized equipment |
6. Candle Making Secrets by Emma Mitchell
Mitchell’s book stands out for its focus on creative and artistic candle designs. Going beyond basic techniques, this book teaches readers how to create multi-layered, sculptural, and decorative candles that double as art pieces.
The book includes techniques for embedding objects, creating textured surfaces, and designing unique molds. There’s also a section on creating custom scent blends and color combinations for signature candles.
Pros:
| Focuses on creative and artistic techniques |
| Excellent photography showcasing possibilities |
| Unique projects not found in other books |
Cons:
| Assumes some basic knowledge of candle making |
| Some projects require specialized tools |
7. DIY Candle Making at Home by Jessica Miller
Miller’s approach focuses on candle making with minimal equipment and readily available materials. This makes it perfect for beginners who want to try the craft without significant investment.
The book includes 50 simple projects using household items as molds and containers. There’s also excellent information on upcycling and repurposing materials for eco-friendly candle making.
Pros:
| Budget-friendly approach requiring minimal investment |
| Creative ideas for repurposing household items |
| Quick projects with immediate satisfaction |
Cons:
| Limited information on professional-quality candles |
| Some techniques sacrifice quality for simplicity |
8. The Candlemaker’s Companion by Betty Oppenheimer
Considered a classic in the field, Oppenheimer’s book has guided generations of candle makers with its thorough approach and timeless techniques. The revised edition includes updated information on materials and safety standards.
The book covers traditional methods alongside modern innovations, making it suitable for those interested in historical candle making as well as contemporary practices. There’s particularly good information on troubleshooting common problems.
Pros:
| Time-tested techniques with proven results |
| Excellent troubleshooting guide for common issues |
| Includes both traditional and modern methods |
Cons:
| Some information on materials may be dated |
| Less focus on trendy or contemporary designs |
Candle Making Books Comparison Table
| Book Title | Author | Best For | Special Features | Difficulty Level | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Complete Guide to Candle Making | Natalie Birkley | All-around learning | Eco-friendly focus | Beginner to Intermediate | $15-25 |
| The Art, Craft, and Economics of Soap and Candle Making and Selling | Ellie Sharpe | Business development | Marketing strategies | Intermediate | $20-30 |
| Candle Making for Beginners | Stephanie Schacht | First-time makers | Progressive learning projects | Beginner | $12-20 |
| The Encyclopedia of Candle Making Techniques | Catherine Bardey | Reference & techniques | Comprehensive coverage | All levels | $25-35 |
| Soy & Beeswax Candle Making Handbook | Sally Hornsey | Natural candle making | Essential oil blending | Beginner to Intermediate | $15-25 |
| Candle Making Secrets | Emma Mitchell | Creative designs | Artistic techniques | Intermediate to Advanced | $18-28 |
| DIY Candle Making at Home | Jessica Miller | Budget-friendly projects | Upcycling ideas | Beginner | $10-20 |
| The Candlemaker’s Companion | Betty Oppenheimer | Traditional techniques | Troubleshooting guide | All levels | $15-25 |
Choosing the Right Candle Making Book for Beginners
If you’re new to candle making or shopping for someone who is, consider these factors when selecting a book:
Clarity of Instructions
Beginners benefit from books with clear, step-by-step instructions and plenty of visuals. “Candle Making for Beginners” by Stephanie Schacht and “DIY Candle Making at Home” by Jessica Miller are particularly good for newcomers with their straightforward approach.
Project Variety
Books that offer a range of simple projects allow beginners to build confidence while developing different skills. Look for books that include container candles, which are typically the easiest starting point.
Material Explanations
Good beginner books should explain different wax types, wicks, and additives in accessible language. “The Complete Guide to Candle Making” excels at breaking down material choices without overwhelming new crafters.
Troubleshooting Sections
Candle making involves some trial and error, so books with robust troubleshooting sections help beginners navigate common challenges. “The Candlemaker’s Companion” is particularly strong in this area.
Books for Advanced Candle Makers
For those who have mastered the basics and want to expand their skills, these selections offer more advanced techniques:
Specialized Techniques
“Candle Making Secrets” by Emma Mitchell focuses on artistic and decorative techniques that go beyond basic candles, perfect for crafters looking to create unique designs.
Business Development
“The Art, Craft, and Economics of Soap and Candle Making and Selling” provides valuable guidance for those looking to turn their hobby into a business, covering everything from product development to marketing.
Reference Materials
“The Encyclopedia of Candle Making Techniques” serves as an excellent reference for experienced makers who want to troubleshoot specific issues or explore new methods.
Final Thoughts on Candle Making Books
The right candle making book can be a treasured resource that crafters return to again and again as they develop their skills. For complete beginners, “Candle Making for Beginners” offers the most accessible introduction. Those interested in natural candle making will find “Soy & Beeswax Candle Making Handbook” invaluable. If you’re looking for the most comprehensive reference, “The Encyclopedia of Candle Making Techniques” covers virtually every aspect of the craft.
For those interested in turning candle making into a business, “The Art, Craft, and Economics of Soap and Candle Making and Selling” provides specific guidance that general crafting business books lack. And for crafters on a budget, “DIY Candle Making at Home” demonstrates how to create beautiful candles without expensive equipment.
Whatever your candle making goals, these books offer valuable guidance, inspiration, and technical knowledge to help you create beautiful, fragrant candles that bring warmth and ambiance to any space.