I have been teaching candle making workshops in Calgary for over a year now. In that time, both the participants and I have learned a lot. Today, I want to share some of the beautiful creations I’ve seen in workshops so far. I’d also like to share how the workshops evolved and some of the brand new workshops we are offering this year.
For the last year, the focus of the candle making workshops was rolled beeswax candles. When I first started making candles, I made rolled candles. I have since branched out into making solid beeswax candles as well. That said, I still enjoy making rolled candles. The beehives are quite popular and one of my favourites too!
There are a few styles available in our store although I think making custom orders is more fun! From making custom sized pillars to supersized tapers, every order is new and exciting.
Make and Take
I love to share my knowledge with others, so I am naturally enjoying the workshops. I started out small by running what I call a Make and Take station at markets. Anyone with a few minutes to spare and interest in candle making can stop by and learn to make a candle.
I have had people of all ages stop by for candle making fun. It’s always a pleasure to see how excited they get about the finished product.
Candle Making Workshops
From here, I started running longer workshops. To me, workshops are more than just learning how to make something. I wanted to provide a opportunity for people to have fun with friends and family. As an added bonus, they get to do something a little different. Paint parties and ceramic painting have been around for awhile. I hadn’t seen any candle making workshops in Calgary.
Candle making workshops are great for newbees and oldbees (pun definitely intended). Experience is not necessary, but we do welcome those who have it! Not only do makers learn to create candles, they have an opportunity to socialize. Whether it’s with friends and family or strangers, we have fun. We’ve had groups of friends, date nights, and solo adventurers, so there’s a good mix every time.
On top of candle making, I like to share some of my bee knowledge. Makers learn a bit about where the raw materials come from and how bee colonies operate. The bees work hard to produce the wax. I believe it’s important to acknowledge their amazing contributions.
Candle making is part art and part science. Rolled beeswax candle making workshops are perfect for getting the creative juices flowing. Before coming to a workshop, I encourage participants to look for ideas. Google and Pinterest are both great resources. We have a Pinterest idea board to help makers get started. Sometimes the ideas work and sometimes not quite, but we can usually find a way to make it happen!
All the people who come to rolled candle making workshops leave with a unique set of candles. I love seeing the variety each person gets to take home.
Workshop Partnerships
Earlier this year, I was fortunate to partner with Sam from The Tea Wagon to do a combined workshop. Sam led the group in creating their own custom tea blend while I taught them how to make beehive candles. There were so many choices of ingredients for the tea blending! It was interesting to learn about each ingredient. We learned about the benefits they have and how they are normally used.
The beehives were beautiful and the tea blends sounded delicious! I am looking forward to partnering with Sam again for more workshops. Find out how you can sign up for our upcoming tea and candle making workshops below.
Upcoming Candle Making Workshops
This year, I wanted to come up with a series of new and exciting candle making workshops. I received a lot of feedback from previous workshops. One request I saw a few times was for lip balm. I’m excited to share we will be running a lip balm workshop this season!
From teacup candles to holiday themed candles, every month features a different project. I am excited to be partnering with The Tea Wagon again and Stitch Plus Stitch this season. Details on all the workshops we offer are available on our workshop information page. If you’re interested in coming to a workshop, registration links are available here.
Private Candle Making Workshops
Although our public workshops are quite popular, the dates don’t always work for everyone. For large groups or busy schedules, we are happy to offer private workshops. Private workshops are great for:
- Birthday parties
- Corporate team building
- Family fun nights
- Ladies night
- Church groups
- Camps
- More
We can also help organize wedding activities including:
- DIY wedding favours
- DIY unity candle sets
- DIY wedding decor
- Bachelorette parties
- More
Contact us for details on how you can book a private event.
Candle Making Kits
If you prefer to fly solo and need a hand getting started, we have candle making kits. Kits come with materials and instructions to make your own rolled beeswax candles. No cutting required! All kits are available in the colour and style of your choice. They also make perfect gifts for young makers who may not feel comfortable using knives yet. Shop now to get yours!
Beeswax Sheets
For those who already know what they are doing, we also sell beeswax sheets. Local pickup is available year-round. With twenty four different colours to choose from, there is something for everyone. Check out the available colours here.