How to Use the Handmade Candle Cost Calculator
Knowing your exact material cost per candle is essential before pricing for sale. Enter container volume, fragrance load percentage, and the price you pay per pound of wax, per ounce of fragrance oil, and per candle for containers and misc supplies. The calculator uses a 0.9 fill factor (container volume × 0.9 = wax weight in oz).
Wax Type Comparison
| Wax Type | Max Fragrance Load | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Soy wax | 8–10% | Clean burn, eco-friendly |
| Paraffin | 10–12% | Strong throw, affordable |
| Beeswax | 6–8% | Natural honey scent, premium |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I include labor in the price?
Yes — your time has value. Add at least your hourly rate × time per candle on top of material cost when setting retail prices. Many candle makers price at 3–4× material cost to account for both labor and profit margin.
How does container size affect the fill amount?
This calculator uses 0.9 oz of wax per 1 oz of container volume (90% fill), leaving room at the top. An 8 oz jar gets approximately 7.2 oz of wax.