Candle making as an alternative livelihood

By Wein P. Gadian

Only light comes to mind when we hear the word candle. During the olden days, it was used as a means to light the households in the evenings. It is also used in sacred ceremonies by other people, be it to light the souls of the ones in heaven or calling on to the spirits. For Catholics, it is a sign of the Holy Spirit that’s why their altars never run out of lighted candle. These candles are also used in different celebrations like weddings, baptisms and others.

Candles  are  also among the most beautiful ornaments for homes not only because of its aesthetic value but  also because of its therapeutic element among others. With its different uses, a lot of people have become interested in making their own candles. And through the years from the simple ‘dipped’ (regular candles) candle it has evolve to various shapes and designs. Now there are cube, rounded, heart and box shaped candles. Some have even created figures using candles.

But there is one distinctive kind of candles produced in Ungka Jaro. They are the rose candles of ‘Kandilang Rosas Atbp Mktg’ (KRAM). This small scale business started with simple tools of tin cans, barbecue sticks, wicks, moulds and the waxes used in candle making. “I really like roses, and that’s the reason why I started to create my own style of rose candles.” Although other candle makers also have rose designed candles, KRAM’s are intricately done. The petals are made in thin layers and assembled to form the flower. In its eight years of operation, these candles have made a reputation for itself. Most of them have been exported to progressive countries like Spain and America. From a simple hobby it has grown into a source of income in its eight years of operation.

A livelihood

The economic crisis in the country causes most people to live in poverty. Although some resolve it thru part-time jobs, others just have to struggle to make ends meet. Others go  into small scale businesses like  sari-sari store, meat processing and others, just to compensate their needs. And candle making as an alternative livelihood has been proven to be a sure success. “Candle making business is very sustainable. With only a small capital you can make enough candles to be sold. There are no waste materials in candle making since you can recycle the used candles. And there’s no limit to your production because candles are not seasonal.”

From materials and equipment, this business can be done at home at one’s own time. The materials are not perishable and that the molds used are typically home based (toothpaste boxes, old glass, plastic wares etc.). Its basic materials include paraffin and crystal waxes, moulds, and wicks. All of which are available in various stores which sells candles. The waxes can be bought per kilo. One kilo of paraffin could make more than 50 tea candles. Production of the candles will also depend on the moulds being used.  To add more sophistication to the produced candles are the use of scents, dyes and essential oils. Others use cubes wax or gel wax to add variation to the candle.
 

There are so many things that can be done with the candles. Using one’s creativity it could be ornamented with pebbles, flowerets, lace, ribbons, baskets and more for a gift. And depending on the motif and occasion, these candles can be designed for Christmas, Halloween, wedding or birthday parties. And like what KRAM did in its original rose candles and flowers…one can also discover his/her own style of candles.

Using dyes, the  candles can be made in different colors. For therapeutic effects, the waxes are mixed with essential oils and scents. Some commonly known essential oils are lavender, sandal wood, vanilla, citronella (mosquito repellent) and jasmine. Other scents are citrus, strawberry, peppermint and more.

Since its only weeks before November, try making your own candles at home. Exercise your creativity and make it an alternative livelihood and be stress free. Like what KRAM did, from a hobby it is now a source of livelihood. “I did not experience a downfall in the business. Even with P3000, one can start the business…and double it with its sales and production. It only takes patience.” For more inquiries in call 3285704 look for Roselyn Agaza of Kandilang Rosas Atbp Marketing.