Where to Learn the Craft

Artistic or not, you will need a heads up on the practical process of candle making. In case you have not been doing it as a hobby, attending a crash course would definitely help. The duration of the course would be anywhere from a day to 4 days and the fees would also vary accordingly from Rs. 600 to Rs. 750 approximately.

To Get Started

Investment

You might have to invest anything from Rs. 2500 to 5000 based on the kind of candles (gel/ wax) you want to make as well as the intricacies.

Workspace

You will need a workshop or a room in your house, which is equipped with a two-burner gas stove, and a fairly large counter.  

Materials

The candle wax or gel could cost you anything between Rs. 60 to Rs. 120 per kg, which can then be used to make about 10 candles. You would also have to get colours, moulds or glass holders, scents and accessories.

Time Involved

In approximately 4 hours of solid work and a kilo of wax you can expect to make at least 10 large candles.

Minimum Monthly Income

While pricing the candles, you need to keep in mind cost and labour. Wax candles can be priced from Rs. 20 onwards for small items such as diyas or lamps to Rs. 400 (or more) for aromatic or carved ones. The price range for gel candles can begin with Rs. 50 approximately and go up to thousands.

The more exotic and detailed the candles, the higher your profit. If you work seven to eight hours a day and sell about 300 candles every month, you can make around Rs. 12,000. As the demand grows, you can look at hiring people to work for you.