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Candlemaking for Profit
A practical guide for small-scale producers-
Synopsis
Candlemaking is a traditional craft which can be converted into a modern small business with viable markets in most countries around the world. This book includes instructions on how to determine the feasibility of a candlemaking business, and advises on essential business planning. It gives detailed and specific guidance in the critical areas of pricing, marketing and selling. Candlemaking for Profit covers the various materials and methods used in candlemaking. It includes step-by-step illustrations to explain methods appropriate for small-scale production. It advises on different wax types, wicks, dyes and scents and gives advice on dealing with material suppliers. The methods illustrated include dipping, moulding, pouring and how to make container candles. Finding workshop space is also covered, with information about costs of premises, workshop layout, stock control and safety. The book explains how to keep ahead through design and innovation. It includes advice on how to generate creative ideas, respond to market trends and safeguard intellectual property. This is a simple and clear practical guide for those who are looking for a business start-up or who want to convert their candlemaking hobby into a profitable small business, whether living in an economically rich or developing country.
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Table of Contents
Figures vii
Tables vii
Photos vii
About the author ix
Chapter 1. The history of candlemaking 1
‘with contributions from Mindy Chillery’
The earliest candles 1
The Romans and the Middle Ages 2
More recent history 3
The advent of paraffin wax 4
Modern times 5
Chapter 2. Feasibility study 7
‘with contributions from Mindy Chillery’
Why do a feasibility study? 7
How to conduct a feasibility study 8
Stage 1: Market feasibility 8
Stage 2: Technical feasibility 11
Stage 3: Financial feasibility 12
Analysis and interpretation of data 14
Chapter 3. Business planning 15
‘with contributions from Mindy Chillery’
What is a business plan? 15
Why have a business plan? 15
Business plan structure 16
Using your business plan 21
Chapter 4. Marketing 23
‘with contributions from Mindy Chillery’
What is marketing? 23
Product: Knowing what your customers want 25
Price and calculating costs 26
Placement: Market penetration 31
Promotion: Attracting customer attention 38
Setting targets 40
Summary 40
Chapter 5. Materials, equipment and techniques 41
How a candle burns 41
Candlemaking materials 41
Candlemaking equipment 47
Production techniques 49
Summary 60
Chapter 6. Premises, workspace and stock control 61
Premises 61
Workspace layout 63
Stock control 65
Chapter 7. Innovation, design and intellectual property 69
Being creative 69
Designing for fair trade, organic and ethical markets 73
Intellectual property, protecting your ideas 75
Chapter 8. Case studies 79
The Wax Studio 79
Jyoti’s Candles 86
Swazi Candles 91
Further information sources 97 -
Details
Sub Title A practical guide for small-scale producers Author Robert Aley Editor No Width (mm) 156 Height (mm) 234 Thickness (mm) 8 Number of Pages 112 Number of Illustrations No Format Paperback / softback
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