Candle Math for Beginners

Introduction

• Presenter: Wade
• Purpose: Simplify candle math to make candle making easier and more accurate.
• Structure: Three lessons focusing on candle math.

Lesson 1: Volume vs. Weight

• Volume Measurements: Fluid ounces, milliliters, gallons.
  • Common in other handcrafts (e.g., soap making, lotions).
  • Examples: Some companies sell fragrance oils by fluid ounces.
• Weight Measurements: Ounces, grams, pounds.
  • Preferred for candle making.
  • Most materials (wax, fragrance oils) are packaged and recommended for use by weight.
  • Important distinction: Fluid ounces (volume) vs. ounces (weight).
  • Fragrance load for wax is typically given by weight (e.g., 10% by weight).
  • Conclusion: Use weight measurements for accuracy and consistency in candle making.

Lesson 2: Fragrance and Wax Ratios

• Common Questions: How much fragrance to add to wax? Total wax and fragrance needed?

• Method 1: Wax + Fragrance Oil

  • Step 1: Measure wax (e.g., 16 oz).
  • Step 2: Determine fragrance oil percentage (e.g., 9%).
  • Step 3: Calculate fragrance oil: Wax amount × Fragrance percentage (16 × 0.09 = 1.44 oz).
  • Total Fill: Wax (16 oz) + Fragrance oil (1.44 oz) = 17.44 oz.
  • Pros: Simple, accurate.
  • Cons: May not match desired candle size, leads to additional calculations or waste.

• Method 2: Total Fill Method

  • Step 1: Determine total fill needed (e.g., 16 oz).
  • Step 2: Determine fragrance oil percentage (e.g., 9%).
  • Step 3: Calculate wax amount: Total fill ÷ (1 + Fragrance percentage) (16 ÷ 1.09 = 14.68 oz).
  • Calculate Fragrance Oil: Total fill - Wax amount (16 - 14.68 = 1.32 oz).
  • Total Fill: Wax (14.68 oz) + Fragrance oil (1.32 oz) = 16 oz.
  • Pros: Exact fill amount, minimizes waste, scalable for larger batches.
  • Example: 8 candles, each 10 oz, with 10% fragrance oil.
    • Total fill = 80 oz.
    • Wax = 80 ÷ 1.10 = 72.7 oz.
    • Fragrance oil = 80 - 72.7 = 7.3 oz.

• Pop Quiz Explanation

  • Difference between both methods: Method 1 focuses on wax amount first; Method 2 starts with total fill requirement.

Lesson 3: Labeling

• Importance of Labeling: Correct labeling standards for weight vs. net weight.
• Net Weight: Weight of the product inside the container (excluding the container itself).
  • Calculation Tip: Weigh empty jar, weigh filled jar, subtract the difference.
  • Standard: Use net weight on packaging and labels.
  • Recommended to list net weight in both ounces and grams (e.g., 9 oz / 255 grams).

Additional Tips and Resources

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Conclusion

• Summary: Importance of using weight measurements, methods for calculating fragrance and wax ratios, correct labeling practices.
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