Candle Making Basics

Candle Making Frequently Asked Questions

• How are candles made?

While modern candle-making processes vary, most candles are made through the timeless process of placing a cotton wick into wax which   is then molded, dipped, extruded, pressed, rolled, drawn or filled into a desired shape and size.

• What is the best way to store candles?

Candles should be stored in a cool, dark, dry place and, for tapers, in a flat position to prevent warping. When stored properly, candles can be enjoyed for years and play an important role in traditions.

• Does the industry have standards for candles?

Domestic candle manufacturers have a long tradition of making high quality, long-lasting and safe candles. National Candle Association members – manufacturers and suppliers – are working with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) to implement voluntary standards for candles.

• Are candles safe to use?

Candles are safe when burned properly and responsibly, and according to manufacturers’ directions. When burning candles, consumers should always follow these simple, common sense steps:

* never leave a burning candle unattended
* keep candles out of the reach of children and pets
* trim wicks prior to each use and keep trimmed
* keep candles away from drafts, vents and flammable objects
* extinguish a candle that smokes (check instructions before re-lighting)
* extinguish candle when ½” of wax remains in a container
* use only candle holders that have been manufactured for use with candles
* keep matches and other debris out of the candle
* extinguish the flame if it burns too close to the container or holder do not move a glass container when the wax is liquid.

• What are the typical ingredients in a candle?

A candle consists primarily of wax and a wick. Many candles also contain dyes or pigments for color and fragrances for scent as well as other minor ingredients.

• What kind of label information is required to be placed on candles?

No safety information is required on candle labeling. However, most U.S. candle manufacturers voluntarily place safety and use instructions on their candles. The National Candle Association is working with American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) to create voluntary labelling standards for the industry.

Little Known Candle Facts

U.S. candle consumer retail sales for 2001 were projected at $2.3 billion, not including candle accessories.

There are more than 300 known commercial, religious and institutional manufacturers of candles in the United States, as well as many small craft producers for local, non-commercial use.

Candles are sold principally in three types of retail outlets: department stores, specialty (gift) shops, and mass merchandisers, including drug store chains, supermarkets, and discount stores. The U.S. market is typically separated into seasonal (Christmas Holiday) business at roughly 35%, and non-seasonal business at about 65%.

Typically, a major U.S. candle manufacturer will offer 1,000 to 2,000 varieties of candles in its product line.

Types of candles manufactured in the U.S. include: tapers, straight-sided dinner candles, columns, pillars, votives, wax-filled containers and novelties. Many of these come in different sizes and fragrances, and all come in a range of colors.

Candles can range in retail price from approximately 50¢ for a votive candle to around $75.00 for a large column candle although a specialty candle could be as much as $200.

Candle shipments increase substantially during the third quarter of the year because of the seasonal nature of candle sales during the end-of-year holiday celebrations (including Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa), since candles play a large role at this time of year (religious, gifts and decorations).

Candle industry research findings indicate that the most important factors affecting candle sales are color, shape and scent. Fragrance is increasing in importance as a special element in the selection of a candle for the home.

Candle manufacturers’ surveys show that 96% of all candles purchased are bought by women,.

Candles are used in 7 out of 10 U.S. households. A majority of consumers burn candles for less than three hours per occasion. A majority of consumers also burn candles between 1-3 times per week with half of these consumers burning 1-2 candles at a time.