Hobby to Handmade Business: My Candle-Making Journey

I started experimenting with scents a few years ago. I’ve always loved a home that smells amazing, so making candles began as a personal passion — and over time, it blossomed into a full-time business.

At the beginning, I felt overwhelmed by choice: wax types, wicks, fragrance oils, and containers — there were so many combinations. I spent months testing different formulas until I found the perfect balance. It often felt chaotic, but eventually, things clicked, and I created a candle I was truly proud of.

🛠️ How I Learned to Make Handmade Candles

Once I mastered the formula, it was time to figure out everything else:

What jars to use?

How should the label look?

What kind of packaging best reflected my brand?

After testing over 10 different jar samples, I landed on a matte black glass vessel that looked stunning in any room. I paired it with a ridged black gift box and a white bow — something elegant yet simple. My packaging needed to feel gift-worthy because candles are often given to loved ones.

🔖 Designing Professional Candle Labels & Packaging

I wanted every label to feel professional, minimal, and beautiful. That process took longer than I expected — even harder than choosing fragrances! Once I settled on the design, I printed labels for scent, brand, and CLP compliance.

🕯️ Step-by-Step Handmade Candle Making Process

I hand-pour in small batches — usually around 12 candles at a time. This lets me take my time and ensure every single one is just right.

Here’s a quick look at my process:

I melt natural soy wax using a wax burner.

While that melts, I prepare the jars and place wicks using a wick holder.

Once the wax reaches the right temperature, I blend in the fragrance oil.

I pour the wax into jars, allow them to set, and check for any imperfections.

After curing, I apply custom labels and lids, then leave the candles to rest for 7 days before shipping.

Every candle is poured with care, checked for quality, and packaged beautifully.

💬 Why I Love Handmade Candles

Creating candles lets me combine creativity, scent, and design — three things I’m truly passionate about. Whether it’s choosing a fragrance or folding the perfect gift box, I love that every part of this process is hands-on.

I’ll keep sharing more behind-the-scenes looks and tips right here.
💌 Follow our blog to learn more about candle making and the heart behind Esmeralda Candle Co.

## Frequently Asked Questions About Handmade Candles

**Q: How long should I burn a handmade candle the first time?**  
A: For best results, allow the wax to melt evenly across the top (about 2–3 hours). This prevents tunneling and helps your candle last longer.  

**Q: Why should I trim the wick before lighting?**  
A: Trimming to 5mm before each burn reduces soot, ensures a steady flame, and extends the burn time of your candle.  

**Q: What makes handmade candles different from mass-produced ones?**  
A: Handmade candles use natural soy wax, premium fragrance oils, and cotton wicks for a cleaner, longer-lasting burn — unlike many mass-market paraffin candles.  

**Q: Are handmade soy candles eco-friendly?**  
A: Yes — soy wax is renewable, biodegradable, and burns cleaner, making handmade candles a more sustainable choice for your home.