Making Candles & Soaps For Dummies

I love doing crafts! I was raised in my mother’s yarn store so I quickly learned to knit and crochet, now it’s a deep passion. I’m always searching for something new and fun to do that is not too expensive to get into. I’ve always wanted to make my own soaps but had no idea how to get started.

Making Candles & Soaps For Dummies is the perfect companion for both novice and experienced crafters. If you’re interested in creating beautiful candles and aromatic soaps then this book is for you. It’s very well organized and explains all the steps in easy to understand “how to’s”.

The book starts us off by focusing on candles. You’ll be taught what supplies and equipment you’ll need and how to keep your work area clean and organized. I didn’t realize there were different kinds of waxes to use in candle making. There are paraffin wax, beeswax, gel wax, and vegetable-based wax. Each requires different handling. There are even four different types of wicks and you’ll learn which candles they are appropriate for. The skies the limit when it comes to mold options. If you can’t find the mold you’re looking for, simply make one from a hollow object/item you have hanging around the home.

Then you’re shown how to add color and scent because candles just don’t seem quite finished without a gorgeous color and a calming scent. Chapter 19 is all about Aromatherapy and how to use the essential oils wisely. I was unaware that some oils are toxic even when you use just a couple of drops. Others are poisonous when you use large quantities. This is a definite must-read whether you are adding essential oils to your candles or soaps. There is also a chapter that covers how to handle common candle problems. I thought this was a good chapter to read first before attempting to make a candle. It will save time and help you avoid any misfortunes.

The second half of the book is devoted to making divine soaps. This part really interested me because it’s always been my desire to create my own soaps. You start with the soap making basics where you’ll learn what equipment and materials you’ll need to keep on hand. I really liked that you can use a lot of utensils and older pots you have in your home so no need to go out and buy tons of gadgets and supplies. There are two soap making techniques shared in the book, the hand-milled and the melt and pour and you’ll the advantages and disadvantages of both. The melt and pour is my preference. You could go wild with all the molds around and you don’t have to settle for soap molds. You can use chocolate molds and craft your own shaped mold. I really liked chapter 15 Creating Scent-sations: Adding Color and Scent. White is for wimps so don’t be afraid to color your candle happy! I really enjoyed this so much that I think I’m going to continue on making my own soap.

The book ends with an abundance of holiday decorating ideas. Candles and soaps make terrific gifts and I personally love receiving them. Chapter 23 is all about projects for kids so they can learn the same principles and techniques of both candle and soap making. It’s a fabulous book for anyone looking for a new hobby or just wants more advice or some tweaking on their skills. I really enjoyed this book.

Disclaimer: I received product to facilitate a review. All opinions are my own, yours may differ.