A Moment

Spring has Sprung at Candles by Donald

I am feeling better as each day passes.  Candles have started to find their way from my studio to my On-Line store Candles by Donald.  This fragrance is new to Candles by Donald and offers a most wonderful Bouquet.  A Gardenia scented handmade natural palm wax pillar candle is the newbie.  We have a Gardenia bush my mother gave us years ago, and the scent from this candle mimics the fragrance from our bush down to the blossom.

Lilac scented natural palm wax filled sand pot candle

This sand pot candle is a beauty, but I say that about all the sand pot candles I make. Why? because it is true. This one scented with Lilac candle fragrance oil is the real deal, at least it smells that way. The fragrance is true Lilac.

A beautiful Lilac scented natural palm wax filled sand pot candle. This is another of the improved sand pot candles. The sand pot is made from a casting of 350 degree (F) highly refined paraffin wax and fine sand. The hot wax is poured into a mold made in moist fine sand. The wax is allowed to seep into the walls of the mold. After a few minutes but before the wax completely cools it is removed. The casting when completely cooled is removed and carved to a finished pot shape. The sand pot is then filled with scented natural palm wax making a scented sand pot candle. Each candle is individually handmade and one of a kind. This one is filled with natural palm wax scented with Lilac premium candle fragrance oil. Lilac scent is best described as a sweet smelling floral. The very aromatic Sand Pot Candle smells just like the beautiful flower laden bushes that seem to signal spring is here. Sweet smelling and full of fragrance aptly describes the bouquet that leaves a desire to smell this natural palm wax filled sand pot candle repeatedly. The warm, spring scent will greet your guests as they enter your home. Another one of my favorites, I love to pour this fragrance Lilac candle. 
The sand pot candle is 3 7/8 inches tall, 5 inches diameter, and has a 3 3/8 inches diameter wax pool. The sidewall is 1/2 inch minimum thickness at the top of the candle becoming thicker inside the candle. The bottom of the candle is at least 1 1/8 inches thick making the candle bottom heavy. The finished sand pot candle has a weight of 3 pounds 3.2 ounces and contains approximately 13.2 ounces of scented palm wax. The new wick size makes it easier to maintain a thin wall of wax around the inside of the candle while burning, and less chance of overheating. Caution should be used when near the bottom of the scented wax. I recommend 1 hour burn times to avoid damage to the container. Typically, there will be only 2-3 hours of burn time left in the candle at this stage, and like most of us you want to get every last bit of the wonderful Lilac bouquet. I recommend burn times of 2 1/2 hours maximum. Once the candle has cooled it may be relit and enjoyed again. The container is made from wax and sand. Although the sand helps to insulate the candle pot from melting, it is possible for the candle to overheat when burned for too long an interval. There is the urge to touch the Sand Pot Candle, after a normal or during the latter half of a normal burn time; the side walls can become soft in all cases Do Not Touch a Sand Pot Candle while burning. Like all candles, this sand pot candle should be burned on a candle dish for safety. Sand Pot Candles are so beautiful to look at and burn as a piece of functional art.

Opps

Life is just filled with surprises.  Sometimes I think that just maybe there are more than my share of surprises coming my way.  Just when the weather started to warm, things did not feel right when I sat down for supper.  Yes, it was time for one of those surprises, "Sue I do not feel very good I am going to lay down".  I lay down and then "Sue, please call 911".  Once again I get rolled into the ER at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, and after a few hours of tests.  I was given a room on the second floor.  You know you have been hospitalized too much when all the nurses know you.  The Candleguy is home and doing better.  Yes, I will start to pour candles tomorrow. What fragrance, a beautiful smelling white natural palm wax pillar scented Gardenia. Look for it in my store along with a Sand Pot Candle filled with natural palm wax and scented with a very aromatic Lilac.

Donald, where are you? Whats happening with your store?

Donald, what is happening?

Donald has had a holiday season that will not end. Donald is making candles as fast as he can. Customers are using the message system, and emailing him directly with special orders. Donald, will accommodate customers any time they knock on the door. The store will eventually be stocked, and new candles will appear. Right now, the orders for candles are taking replacement candles as fast as he can make them. Its okay, if you need a specific candle just contact him. He will be there, making candles. Donald is very happy with the support customers have given him. He wishes everyone a good year ahead, and a Thank You to all his customers.

Just a Little Too Cold For The Candleguy821

     After more than a few is way to many cold nights and cool days.  Donald was able to pour some natural palm wax pillar candles.  Today the temperature nudged its way just past the 70 mark to 73.  The forecast for Tuesday is partly cloudy with the temperature going to an absolutely balmy level of 75 - 76 degrees F.  Why the concern over a few degrees?  The rate that the melted palm wax cools plays a key role in how much crystallization takes place within the surface area of a nice Candles by Donald pillar.  Donald takes steps to get unique surface patterns during the Winter months in his outdoor studio.    
For example:
 1.) pouring at the high end of the recommended pour range.
 2.) preheat the mold just prior to filling the mold.

 3.) set the candle mold on a wooden block with 
       a circular hole slightly smaller than the 
      candle diameter cut in the block.

 4.) set a clear or translucent hood over the 
       candles once the top of the candles have    

      cooled.  Don't forget the small pouring pot 
      with the remainder of the hot wax in 

      it.  Every little bit helps to slow the cooling 
      down.

Okay, what did Donald pour today?  Southern Magnolia, color - pink

Just A Few Warm Days

Here in central Florida, we had a few warm days.  Yes, Donald was able to pour some candles.   You are probably thinking, when? and how many.  Candle purchases continue with tremendous support for Donald's work.  Customer demand for his beautiful candles has made him very happy.  During the few days warm enough to pour, Donald made a few Lavender, Cinnamon Bread Pudding and Butter-cream Crunch.

Lavender 

Cinnamon Bread Pudding

Donald will be taking photos of Butter-Cream Crunch after this next batch of pillar candles.  Sales have been brisk for this natural palm wax pillar candle, and customer orders always come first.  Photos of this beautiful candle will probably be shot on Wednesday 1/11/2012.

Too Cold To Pour

For the last two days the outside temperature has been below 70 degrees Fahrenheit.  In order to cause the palm wax to crystallize while cooling in the pillar mold.  The outside temp needs to be high enough to slow the cooling of the wax while in the mold.  I have found that pouring when the temperature is bellow 70 is a waste of time.  Both the chandler and the the palm wax react more positively when the out side temperature is above 70.  I hope to start pouring again the next 2 days.  This is the time to make sand pots.  If the sand is not moist enough, use hot water to moisten and bring the sand temperature up a little.  The warm sand will allow the 350 degree paraffin wax to seep through the sand creating a wall before it cools.  Too understand the sand pot process see the video here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1G2qlfcK0M

Reflecting on Christmas at Candles by Donald

For a Chandler the Christmas season is the busiest time of year.  This was the case for Donald, chandler at Candles by Donald.  His company is small with only one employee, but that does not minimize the joy he feels while reading the happy e-mails from customers.  Donald wishes to extend a hearty thank you to all customers who have enjoyed his beautiful candles.  He will continue as long as his health allows to bring a high quality product at a reasonable price.  A candle that you will not hesitate to give as a gift to friends and family members.  Donald has a long list of fragrance options for customers to choose from.  This will continue with a few new scents added to the list each year.  Vanilla Extract is a new scent soon to appear on the shelves at Candles by Donald.  For those of you who have enjoyed Cinnamon Bread Pudding scented candles, the fragrance is back.  Just a couple photos to tease you, with a link to the store and a detailed description along with more photos.

Amish Harvest fragrance oil is back in stock along with Dragon's Blood and Celtic Moonspice.  Donald wishes to remind his customers that Alchemist's Blend has been restocked, to help fend off the "stuffies" and Eucalyptus candles will be brought up to normal inventory levels for those customers wishing to use these candles as aromatherapy aides.  From all of me at Candles by Donald THANK YOU and have a safe, happy new year.

Okay I missed a few days, new Southern Magnolia

I have been very busy making candles and taking photos.  Did I mention locating and purchasing new awesome fragrance oils.  The latest just arrived today, Friday, and it is called Southern Magnolia.  I will pour these tomorrow Saturday, and take photos as soon as they cool.  The scent, so clean, refreshing, and so Magnolia, WOW!! I love my job.  This is the real thing, just like the big flowers in the trees so common here in the South.
  The candles cooled, and look so beautiful.  You be the judge, here are a couple photos.  I will provide links to my site and more photos, along with a detailed description.

What is Donald pouring today Dec 5th Monday

This is it!!!! WOW, if this isn't the best bakery scent I have poured, believe me this one, beats them all. The approximately one pound natural palm wax pillar candle is colored a vibrant yellow. The fragrance Christmas Cinnamon Bread Pudding is best described as a creamy vanilla blended with, nutty walnut, sweet cinnamon, nutmeg, and honey to create this spectacular scent. Pouring these awesome fragrances is by far the best part of making pillar candles. I get so hungry sometimes, when there is nothing to eat that compares to the scent I am pouring "oh, the humanity," just joking around. This is a great scent for the holidays, and actually any time of year this one is fantastic.

What did Donald pour today Friday December 2nd

Thursday the warm up did not come, the temperature was just too cold to pour.  Friday things were different,  I started in as soon as I came back from seeing my heart Doctor.  Yes, I am sick complements of the agent orange that was sprayed everywhere is Vietnam.  Its okay, What I did made a difference, saving many American lives.  My curiosity bested my plan, and I decided to pour Alchemists Blend, the new synergy blend in town.

As you can see the candles came out beautiful. This is a synergy blend of essential oil.  The oils from fir, eucalyptus, and pine oils were blended together in just the right proportions.  The blend is fantastic for relieving stuffed noses and congestion.  

What is Donald Pouring Today?

     I have decided to provide customers with the name of the scented candle that I am pouring on a given day along with a description of that fragrance.
Sunday 11/27/2011 - Frankincense and Myrrh
     I will be pouring the star-burst blend of palm wax (Bittercreek candle supply, Inc. my supplier calls this a feather blend) no matter what you call it the surface crystal patterns are beautiful.
     Frankincense and Myrrh is best described as an enchanting aromatic blend of frankincense and myrrh with hints of balsam, spice, patchouli and sandalwood. This candle fragrance is infused with essential oils.

 The pour on Monday went very well as you can see by the photos.  Tuesday I was unable to walk, even assisted by my walker.  I had so much fluid on my knee causing movement to be quit painful.  The best cure was rest with my knee raised higher than my heart and heat on the knee.  Wednesday, I was better, but the knee was still a problem.  So I  listed the Frankincense and Myrrh pillar.  Wednesday a cold front moved into our area making palm wax candle making impossible.  I feel better my knee feels much better.  A new fragrance arrived on Tuesday, and I am anxious to pour it.  So Apple Barrel will get moved to Friday and today I will pour the newbie.                

A Look At What That Candle guy Is Doing For Christmas

Ho, Ho, Ho, Yes the holiday season is upon us at Candles by Donald.  Already on the shelves and selling are Amish Harvest, Amish Spice Loaf, Frankincense and Myrrh, Clove, Creamy Cinnamon Vanilla, and Blue Spruce.  I will be adding one more, Cinnamon Bread Pudding.  Well, there you have it, my Christmas lineup.  Please stop by Candles by Donald; my door is always open.  Check out the photographs of the most beautiful natural palm wax pillar candles.  Lets not forget votives,  I know there are only four listed.  Okay here's the deal, if I carry the scent I will make you some votives.  How much will it cost, you say.  A special pricing for the holidays TWO 2 ounce scented votives for $1.50.  Also, I will put extra samples for you to try in every order, Merry Christmas!


Amish Harvest - a warm spicy scent with cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and more. Warm smelling and strong, this aroma leaves a desire to smell this natural palm wax pillar candle repeatedly.


Amish Spice Loaf - an aroma like an Amish style spiced sour-dough/sweet bread with notes of milky butter cream, pastry, caramelized sugar, raisins, spicy cinnamon & clove, hints of black currant, and vanilla beans.

Frankincense and Myrrh - an enchanting aromatic blend of frankincense and myrrh with hints of balsam, spice, patchouli and sandalwood.


Clove - A handmade scented natural palm wax pillar candle is fragranced with Clove Bud essential oil (1/3) and clove premium candle fragrance oil (2/3). Clove essential oil is said to have some wonderful properties such as stimulating the mind, lifting depression, respiratory problems, and in keeping moths at bay.

Creamy Cinnamon Vanilla -  This cinnamon fragrance is the strongest I have ever poured. There is a hint of sweet creamy vanilla and it in no way impacts the strong fragrance.  Cinnamon can be sharp around the edges of the scent, and the sweet creamy vanilla softens or smooth's out the cinnamon aroma.


Blue Spruce -  The candle fragrance oil Blue Spruce captures the spirit of the holidays with its strong, true, and enchanting bouquet. Reminiscent of the one time I walked through the snow and cut down my own tree at the local "cut your own" tree farm. Punching its way to my nose in the calm morning air was that magical fragrance that reminded me of the days when I was young; that clean, awakening Christmas tree aroma.


Cinnamon Bread Pudding - a blending of aromas from creamy vanilla, nutty walnut, sweet cinnamon, nutmeg, and honey to create a delectable strong candle fragrance. Imagine the aroma of nutmeg, and cinnamon, followed by a nutty walnut all wrapped in creamy vanilla and honey. If the smell from this candle does not make you hungry nothing will.


Candles by Donald
Donald

A New Look For Donald's Natural Palm Wax Pillar Candles

by Donald T. MacKinnon

     I had to change wax suppliers and the new natural palm wax has a new look for Candles by Donald palm wax pillar candles.  The wax supplier I have used for the last few years has made a business decision to not carry palm wax any more.  I thought I would be forced to raise my prices in order to obtain a replacement wax equal in quality.  Now it was time for me to make a business decision.  Rather than raise my prices I decided to use the only wax priced relatively the same as the previous suppliers wax (wax price plus shipping).  One thing for sure, the new wax would have to be equal or better quality.  The new wax is of equal quality, but a radically different appearance.  I  describe this wax surface appearance much like a pane glass window after "Jack Frost' has paid a visit.  The new supplier is Bitter Creek North Candle Supply Inc. from Ashland Wisconsin.  I have used 110 pounds of this wax to date and have experienced no problems making the same high quality natural palm wax pillar candles, but now with a very different look.  I am very thankful I do not have to raise my prices.  I will show off the new Celtic Moonspice and let you be the judge.

 

What's New At Candles by Donald

Hello pillar candle lovers, there has been a busy chandler at Candles by Donald, me.  We have some new fragrances, Blueberry Muffin, Creamy Cinnamon Vanilla, English Garden, Jasmine, and Magnolia.  We also have a new category of pillars, 4 inch diameter.  This translates into a much larger candle than the 3 inch diameter.  The candle has a larger wax pool, and the candle has much more surface area.  The increase in size for the wax pool will allow that much more fragrance to be dispersed into the air as the pillar candle burns.  This will give the candle greater hot throw.  The increase in size for the candle will expose more candle surface area to the air.  This will give the candle an increase in cold throw, since more candle area is exposed.  Last but not least Candles by Donald now carries a selection of votives in stock.  I also encourage you the customer to ask for any color and/or fragrance, and I will make some votives just the way you want.

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=3350828

Keeps Bugs Away replaces the Great Outdoors Candle

by Donald T. MacKinnon

Some people may be asking, "What happened to the Great Outdoors Candle?"  I decided to change the formulae slightly.  The change makes the candle a little easier to manufacture and improves the mosquito repelling properties.  I have increased the size of the candlewick and the diameter of the candle as well.  The candle is still 4 1/2 inches tall, but now the diameter has increased a full inch to 4 inches.  The name of the candle also changed, the new name is Keeps Bugs Away.  The increase in wick size will disperse more of that bug-repelling aroma and the contributing wax pool size will increase.  I like the way the new candle burns, and feel comfortable that the customer will as well.  Yes, the price increased, the increase in wax and essential oils forced me to raise the price.  I still use the same high quality ingredients, just more of them. Here is how the actual listing reads:

For sale is a bug repelling all natural candle, scented with the essential oils, Lemongrass, Cedarwood, and Eucalyptus.  The handmade natural palm wax pillar candle is called Keeps Bugs Away.  This is a bigger than usual pillar for Candles by Donald measuring 4 inches in diameter and 4 1/2 inches tall.  The 1 pound 10 ounce bright orange candle is fragranced to the maximum of 6 % by weight as recommended by the palm wax distributer.  The wick is the correct size for this candle and performs perfectly by gradually increasing the wax pool diameter each time you burn the candle.  The candle will tunnel for a while which will create a lantern effect as the candle burns down.  At around the halfway point, the top of the tunnel wall will begin to erode becoming consumed by the candle.  This candle will burn longer each time you light it than the 3 inch diameter pillar candle.  My recommendation is the check the candle at 2 1/2 hours, and then you decide how much longer for this lighting.  One important thing to remember, do not allow the wax pool to break through the sidewall of the pillar.  Keep the wick centered and place the candle in an area absent of drafts.  Accidents happen so be sure to use a proper pillar plate or saucer when burning this candle.  Does the candle work?  Yes, the candle works well providing the area is not too big, and there is little or no wind.  Using two or more candles will give you better results when the area is larger.  The scent though unpleasant for the insects is light, fresh, lemony, and clean smelling to candle lovers.  All candles are shipped using the Priority Mail System 2 to 3 Day offered by the USPS.  I will return all postage overcharges as soon as possible.  I will calculate the postage for your zip code and set up a special listing for you at NO extra charge.  Just contact me first, before you buy.

First Gunship, First Lefty

First Gunship, First Lefty

The story has to do with my first action packed day as a gunship crew chief in the 170th Buccaneers.    http://www.squidoo.com/the-crew-chief-chronicles-vietnam-october-1966-october-1967

Magnolia scented handmade natural palm wax votive size candles

by Donald T. MacKinnon

For sale is a Magnolia scented handmade natural palm wax 15-hour votive. This premium scented votive has a fresh fragrance packed with the smell of Magnolia buds opening madly. With a powerful throw the fragrance fills the air with the aroma of Magnolia blossoms. The very aromatic votive candle has good scent throw when burned, adding a wonderful bouquet to the room. The peach color adds to the beautiful feather pattern exhibited by this natural palm wax. This fragrance oil is infused with natural essential oils creating a strong pleasant scent. These standard size votives weigh 2 ounces and burn for at least 15 hours. The votive is wrapped in shrink-wrap to preserve the wonderful scent. A label with the scent name on it has been affixed to the outside of the wrapping. At present, the votives are individually sold, but order as many as you like. I will put together gift packs for you, just ask, there is no extra charge. The votive will ship using the USPS Priority Mail System 2-3 Days. Special quantity pricing is available; please contact me. 
This listing is for a single candle. Some photos may show multiple candles for effect; they also give the customer multiple views of the candle within one photo. Shipping is an estimate, when buying more than one votive contact me with you zip code only, and I will set up a special listing for you with the correct shipping charges. If there is and over charge for shipping I will return the extra as soon as possible.  Here are some guidelines for burning palm wax votives.
1.Carefully remove shrink wrapping from the candle before burning. Insure that the wick is cut to approximately 3/16 to 1/4 inches before lighting candle.
2.Always use heavy duty(just a little thicker glass)votive candleholder when burning a votive candle. Palm wax burns slightly hotter than paraffin wax.
3.Keep the wick centered allowing the candle to burn even.
4.Burn candle in an area absent of drafts. Drafts cause the candle to burn wildly and out of control. Fans, open windows, air conditioning or heating vents, can cause drafts.
5.Keep the wax pool area absent of debris. This debris will choke and clog the wick causing it to burn in an irregular manner.
6.Prior to lighting the candle trim the wick if needed; a wick that is to long will cause the candle to smoke. All the things I have mentioned shorten the burn times and make a mess.
In closing the most important safety suggestion is NEVER LEAVE A BURNING CANDLE UNATTENDED

A Salute to My Crew, Memorial Day Remembered

The Votives are Here, at Candles by Donald

By Donald T. MacKinnon

    The votives arrived at Candles by Donald very quietly.  With a spending freeze here at Donald's place, we were unable to hire a band and serve refreshments.  Just the same, they are here, four new products that look, and smell fantastic.  Did someone say "roll call", here it is Neroli, Dragon's Blood, Lavender, and Bird of Paradise.  In detail follows:

Neroli - A scented handmade natural palm wax 15-hour votive. This premium fragrance oil has a bouquet like a Mediterranean Orange Blossom, with a powerful throw. The fragrance fills the air with the aroma of fresh orange blossoms. The very aromatic candle has good scent throw when burned, adding a wonderful bouquet to the room. The lime color adds to the beautiful feather pattern exhibited by this natural palm wax. This fragrance oil is infused with natural essential oils creating a strong pleasant scent. These standard size votives weigh 2 ounces and burn for at least 15 hours.  Please send me a note if you have burn times greater than 15 hours.  I will not say what burn times I had on some of my test candles until I hear from some of the customers at Candles by Donald.

Dragon's Blood - A scented handmade natural palm wax 15-hour votive. This fantastic fragrance you may have smelled this fragrance while shopping at a new age store or herb shop. Dragons Blood candle fragrance oil has an aroma like an oriental blend of orange, rose, and carnation nestled on a warm dry down of patchouli. The very aromatic candle has good scent throw when burned, adding an exotic mystical presence to the room. The dark ruby red color adds to the beautiful feather pattern exhibited by this natural palm wax. This fragrance oil is infused with natural essential oils creating a strong pleasant scent. These standard size votives weigh approximately 2 ounces and burn for at least 15 hours.

Lavender - A scented handmade natural palm wax 15-hour votive. This fantastic fragrance is like standing in a field of French lavender in bloom. This Lavender fragrance is mostly blossom with a hint of green. The very aromatic candle has good scent throw when burned, adding a wonderful bouquet to the room. The purple color adds to the beautiful feather pattern exhibited by this natural palm wax. This fragrance oil is infused with natural essential oils creating a strong pleasant scent. These standard size votives weigh approximately 2 ounces and burn for at least 15 hours.

Bird of Paradise - A scented natural palm wax 15-hour votive. This fantastic fragrance by FES called Bird of Paradise smells like fresh strawberries, grated coconut, and vanilla. The fragrance oil is infused with natural essential oils creating a strong pleasant scent. The standard sized votive weighs two ounces and will burn for at least 15 hours. 

The Votives are Almost Here, I Hope

I am almost ready to list the Bird of Paradise votives.  There are always the little things that turn out to be much more work than expected.  The holdup turned out to be a small warning label, and shrink wrapping.  Both of these items are on there way and should arrive on Thursday or Friday.  I will take more photos to complete the listing tomorrow.  The first 9 votives are done and they smell great.  I am burning a Bird of Paradise scented votive and it smells fantastic.  All of the candles in this batch (10 votives) wiegh greater than 2 ounces (2.1-2.15 ounces).  Burn times exceed 15 hours and the candle burns clean.

The Votives are coming! The Votives are coming! to Candles by Donald

As I have said before, I listen to customers.  Its true, I have decided to make and sell palm wax votives at Candles by Donald.  The new votive candles will use the same natural palm wax I use for pillar candles, and the same premium candle fragrance and essential oils I use in pillar candles.  All votives will be 2 ounces plus a little and will be priced fairly.  My introductory pricing will be $.90 each with a price break occurring @ 6 -11 these will be introductory priced @ $.85 each, and 12 + candles introductory priced @ $ .80 each.  After the introduction period is over I will raise the price slightly to a level that is fair to the customer and I. I will offer votives in the following scents:

Medium Flat Rate Box will hold 40 votives packed (estimate).

Available fragrance list for votives

1. Dragon's Blood

You may have smelled this fragrance while shopping at a new age store or herb shop. Dragons Blood candle fragrance oil has an aroma like an oriental blend of orange, rose, and carnation nestled on a warm dry down of patchouli. 

2. Eucalyptus

Votive is scented with the essential oil made from eucalyptus leafs.  Eucalyptus essential oil is the essence of the plant itself.

3. Celtic Moonspice

This fragrance is best described as a blend of warm spices, cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg.  A definite room sized scent that leaves a desire to smell it again and again.  The warm, welcoming aroma will greet your guests as they enter your home.  Another one of my favorites, I love to pour this scent. 

4. Lavender

The aromatic candle smells like fields of lavender in bloom.

5. Blueberry Muffin

 It is best described as the aroma of a fresh baked blueberry muffin with butter, brown sugar, and mouthwatering blueberries.

6. Bird of Paradise

The bouquet from this candle has a sweet aroma like fresh strawberries, grated coconut, and vanilla. 

7. Lime Cooler

This aromatic candle scent is a citrus and fruit blend that begins with notes of tart lime, refreshing orange, and crisp apple. The middle is a fruity floral of rose and black currant.  The bottom dries to a sweet vanilla plum.  This is a true lime cooler fragrance with its lime and supporting fruit lifted upward by the rose and black currant then settling quietly in a bed of sweet vanilla plum aromas.  Refreshing, different, crisp, satisfying and definitely the smell of clean; this scent is one I recommend you try. 

8. Rain Water

The Rain Water scent is described as a strong white floral bouquet of carnation, lily and crisp white grapefruit. The heart is a wonderful blend of jasmine, tuberose, cyclamen and violet. The base blends vanilla beans, East Indian sandalwood, rose crystals, and long lasting musk. 

9. Macintosh Apples

A strong classic fragrance described as like the aroma from Macintosh apples right from the tree.  The manufacturer has said that this premium fragrance oil was two years in the making; they wanted a true Macintosh Apple scent. I say, they did it! One customer actually tasted the candle, yes the candle really does smell that good.

10. Buttercream Crunch

The smell is strong enough to make your guests hungry without being overpowering or heavy. It is described by the manufacturer as the aroma of a fresh baked butter crunch with creamy coconut, sugary sweet maple, and rich butter. I think the candle has a wonderful sweet butterscotch smell, buttery with a very light coconut, maple and vanilla presence. I am sure there is much more to this complex fragrance with its heart of fresh ginger, nutmeg, and decadent cocoa.

Candles by Donald Safety Guidelines for Burning Palm Wax Pillars

Candles by Donald has an updated candle burning and safety instruction sheet.These will be provided with every purchase. It has always been my position that safety comes first when burning candles. If there is anything I should add, please let me know and we will add the guideline to this group.
1. Carefully remove shrink wrapping from the candle before burning. Insure that the wick is cut to approximately 3/16 to 1/4 inches before lighting the candle.
2. Always use a pillar candle holder, stand, or plate when burning a pillar candle.Avoid wax spill problems, always use a candle dish.
3. A general rule is burn a paraffin candle 1 hour per inch diameter. For example burn a 3 inch diameter pillar for approximately 3 hours or less. Always extinguish candle before flame causes breakthrough in the candle wax pool wall.
*** A general rule for Palm Wax candles is to burn the candle 50 minutes per inch of diameter or for a 3 inch diameter 2 1/2 hours. This is a maximum, as palm wax candles do not have a memory there is no minimum time to burn them. With a palm wax pillar the idea is to cause the candle to "tunnel" or form a wall around the flame. This will set the candle up for a lantern effect with the flame shinning through the crystal laden walls.
4. Keep the wick centered allowing the candle to burn even. A centered wick is extremely important when burning a palm wax pillar candle. Adjust wick position to cause an even thickness wax pool wall. When burning pillar candles this will maximize the burn time and increase the candles efficiency.
5. Burn candles in areas free of drafts. Drafts cause the candle to burn wildly and out of control. Drafts can be caused by fans, open windows, air conditioning or heating vents.
6. Keep the wax pool area free of debris. This debris will choke and clog the wick causing it to burn in an irregular manner.
7. Prior to lighting the candle trim the wick if needed; a wick that is to long will cause the candle to smoke. All the things I have mentioned when not dealt with in an appropriate manner, shorten the burn times and make a mess.
8. Keep your candle clean. Both palm and paraffin wax candles can be cleaned using a damp soft cloth or paper towel. Simply wipe the soiled surfaces clean.
9. In closing the most important safety suggestion is:
NEVER LEAVE A BURNING CANDLE UNATTENDED.

The following was written by Ilana McBain from the Australian Candle Company "I Love Candles". The comment is well written and very informative, so much so that it belongs here and not in the comment section.
We love natural candles. Palm wax, soy wax, each of these waxes has its benefits. In common they share a few very good qualities.
1.All these waxes will burn cleanly and will not release harmful soot, black toxic smoke or CO2 into the air, as breathing this over period of time can be unhealthy. Black smoke and soot can also discolour walls, curtains and furniture.
2.The wick will not drown in the natural waxes.
3.We use high level of scent, so your candles will scent the room beautifully even before you light the candles. With the bees wax candles, we do not add any scents. We like the way they release natural honey scent when they burn.
4.Bees wax candles by the act of ionisation, act as air purifiers.
5.All natural candles burn significantly longer then paraffin candles of the same size.
6.Palm wax candles are the perfect pillars. The wax is very firm and will not melt in the sun. The candles do not need memory burning and you can burn them as often and as long as you wish. By trimming the wick when the wall of the candle becomes thin and transparent, you can eliminate any spillages.
7.Soy wax candles are housed in containers. It is a much softer wax and it burns in a much lower temperature. The melted wax will not burn the skin and is great where there are children to consider. You can even dip your finger in the wax and rub it on your hands as a moisturiser.

Thank you "I Love Candles" from Candles by Donald
http://www.ilovecandles.com.au

Please enjoy your candle purchase. The beauty and scent from a burning candleis a relaxing and sense fulfilling experience. Please enjoy burning your candles safely and think of Candles by Donald for your next candle purchase.
Candles by Donald http://www.candleguy821.artfire.com

Candles by Donald is open

On schedule I opened my studio on March 1st. I made 3 Blueberry Muffin candles on the same day. I was tired from making the candles; this was the first time I did any candle work since Dec. 3rd the day I was taken to the hospital. I have to say it was a good tired that I felt as the candles came out beautiful. I have had 2 good orders since the doors opened again. The sales have depleted my inventory, thats okay, now I get to make more candles. Since I make only 3 candles a day, be patient, inventory will increase as time go on. Once again I will have quantity and selection available. If you have specific scented candles in mind, please place an order by sending me a note via the message system in my Artfire studio.

Candles by Donald
Donald

A search for the fragrance of Christmas past

by Donald T. MacKinnon

     I can remember when I was a boy, Mom and Dad would dress my brother and I extra warm and we would get in the family car for a drive. A drive to my parents favorite place to buy a Christmas tree, and sometimes the second and third favorite places came into the search.  Some years the "perfect" tree was not easy to find. What is the definition of a perfect tree?  Now that is an easy question to answer.  The "perfect" Christmas tree was the tree my Mother liked best.  Weather played an important role in the search, warmer evening temperatures meant a much longer quest. These were the days when just about everyone had a real tree, artificial trees were much more expensive and not popular.  The Christmas tree lots were large and there were hundreds of trees to choose from.  These tree emporiums had traditional holiday music playing or actually being played.  Some lots even had hot apple cider and chocolate.  The one thing common to all of my parents favorite places was the smell of pine from the freshly cut trees.  Today things are much different, and it is the artificial tree that has gained in popularity as the cost of a real tree rises.  It seems that everyone likes that pine smell during the Holidays.  One way to add that scent to your indoor environment is to add a pillar candle to your home decor.  No ordinary candle will do, it must be scented with pine.  The selection of trees years ago was not limited to one kind of tree but a few varieties.  Balsam, Scotch Pine, Douglas Fir, Blue Spruce and Northern Pines are probably the most popular.  The more accurate duplication of the "tree lot" fragrance is really a blend like Rocky Mountain Christmas candle fragrance oil.  I have looked for a simple, but not so simple Christmas tree fragrance for the last 3 years.  Although I came close my search for the elusive oil fell short of capturing the essence of the Christmas tree lot.  For each of us a Christmas tree may smell different in our minds.  This would depend on the tree we were used to while growing up. The tree, was it a Scotch Pine, a Douglas Fir, a Northern Pine or maybe a Blue Spruce?  The fragrance oil Rocky Mountain Christmas is a blend of all these aromas set on top of a warm woody base.  It is this fragrance blend that may serve to satisfy our memories and remind us of Christmas past.

The Sand Pot Candle Has Returned To Candles by Donald

by Donald T. MacKinnon

     Pre-market testing complete it is time for the Sand Pot Candle to make its debut.  After much work to develop an all-natural version of the sand pot failed, I decided to bring back the paraffin version of the sand pot.  A new improved version has completed pre-market testing.  The new version boasts a markedly increased sidewall thickness as well as a wick attachment to the inside bottom of the sand pot.  The Sand Pot Candle is comprised of the new improved sand pot filled with an all-natural container blend of palm wax.  Each sand pot is cast from highly refined paraffin wax poured at a temperature of 350 degrees (F) into a mold made in moist fine sand.  Before the hot wax completely cools, it is removed from the mold forming the inside of the sand pot.  The sidewalls are made from the hot wax that seeps into the sand surrounding the mold and cools.  The rough pot shape is removed from the sand box and the process of sculpting the final shape begins.  After hours of carving, the final sand pot is painted with non-toxic acrylic paint, and filled with scented palm wax.  This is a brief description of the process used to make a single sand pot candle. Each candle is a one of a kind creation and a work of art.

     I have invited two internationally famous guests to help launch the new and improved Sand Pot Candle.  Please welcome Leona and Ludwig a very photogenic couple originally from Israel.  Leona and Ludwig currently working for me serving a key role in keeping track of important notices took a brief leave from their duties as refrigerator magnet hamsters.  Here are Leona and Ludwig introducing the first of the new and improved Sand Pot Candles.

     The new product will be listed in my Artfire studio soon.  I have more versions to follow this one.  A couple more for fall, and then some very interesting Christmas Tree scented versions.  Yes, if you look closely at Leona you will see a cupcake crumb leftover from the announcement festivities.  Please visit my Artfire studio and look over the beautiful palm wax candles I have made, and offer for sale at very reasonable prices.  The following short video will show the actual process used in making a sand pot candle.  There are two differences you should note: the sidewalls in the newest version have a much greater thickness, and the wick no longer goes through the bottom of the candle, now the wick is attached to the inside bottom of the sand pot.

A Day at The Fair

A Day at the Craft Fair

by Donald T. MacKinnon

candleguy821

Saturday, a day I patiently waited for.  Today is the day of the virtual Country Craft Fair featuring talented artisans from places near and far away.  Forecasters predicted crisp clean air and pleasant comfortable temperatures for this mostly sunny day.  It is perfect weather for looking at the beautiful handmade creations while walking from one artisan's booth to another. You never know I might even find some special gifts for the fast approaching holidays.

     I think I may be one of the first ones here, but as I looked back, the parking lot was filling up fast.  The crafts people worked hard they earned a break in the weather and received it.  Admission was $2.00 to cover costs of running the fair, a very reasonable fee in my opinion. This is a very big event, as I looked across the fields ahead at the many booths and artisans eager to show off their works.  There had to be an acre of tent-covered tables comfortably spaced across the close cut green field grass.  Several large trees served to add shade, and contribute to the wonderful Country Craft fair ambiance.

     After walking by several craft displays, something caught my eye as I approached the booth of Elektra Jewelry Designs, displayed amid an array of unique jewelry the likes of which I had not seen in a long time, was a stunning bracelet.  A card under the bracelet display stand had printed on it this description: A very fancy jeweled cuff, handmade with 12-gauge sterling silver wire, and smothered with pearls, rose quartz, silver spacers, and Swarovski crystal.  As I gazed at the beautiful work, the Artisan greeted me and offered to model the bracelet for a couple of photographs.

Jeweled Cuff

Jeweled Cuff

"The work is beautiful," I said as my glazed over eyes stared at the piece.  The woman introduced herself and told me the sad story of her camera breaking. She mentioned that I could get the piece later on by contacting her through the Etsy On-line store using the "Contact Artisan" feature.

     While she was setting the beautiful jeweled cuff on its display stand, a pair of earrings, "oh, these are very pretty, the luster and color is amazing" I said.  I snapped a couple photos for later reference.  A small card under the display stand, described the earrings as a pair of peach drop pearl earrings, hung on gold vermeil caps and ear wires.

Peach Drop Pearl Earrings

Peach Drop Pearl Earrings

     "Dina I enjoyed your booth, but there is much more to see," I said while carefully storing her business card in my camera bag.  Elektra Jewelry Designs is a store I will visit again while shopping from my computer I thought as I turned toward the next booth on my list.

     Opps, I have to stop here first, an unbelievable assortment of smells pulled me toward the Soapy Blessings booth.  "Look at all these handmade soaps, got to have some," I said to myself.  A lovely person walked over and introduced herself, "I am Patricia, you look like you need a little help to locate the source of a particular smell," she said.  "Yes, I smell cranberries, which one of these" I said, as she handed me a round piece of soap saying, "try this one, Cranberry Orange Spice Soap".  I read the label under the display plate; the soap has a cranberry fragrance mixed with orange essential oil, a touch of musk, sandalwood, and moss to give a sweet smell with subtle woodsy undertones.

Cranberry Spice Soap

Cranberry Spice Soap Closeup

      "Yes perfect, please wrap a bar up and one of these also", I said while pointing at the dish with the printed tag Irish Cream Soap under it.  Printed neatly on the tag, were these words "handmade soap using the dessert wine Irish Country Cream fragrance that is mixed with a small amount of Creme Brulee for extra richness."

Irish Country Cream Soap

     The soap, I could smell the Irish Cream from where I was standing outside the booth. What a great way to start your day, a nice hot shower using one of these elegant soaps from Soapy Blessings to relax and get ready for the world.

     Thanking Patricia for the fantastic soaps, I walked along the row of artisan displays until I saw a most interesting display of unusual candles at Valerie's Essentials, along with some free tootsie rolls and mints.  Look at this candle, it is a scented candle, but more than that, it is a fish bowl with glass seaweed and a glassfish with real seashells all embedded in this clear wax called Gel.  The booth had row upon row with gel candles having different themes. Some had no fish at all, but beautiful seashells imbedded in the gel.  There was even one for golfers.  The Artisan was busy with another customer so I took the time to look around the candle filled booth.

 

     When it comes to desserts, I have no resistance.  One of my favorite sweet treats is strawberry shortcake.  Without a doubt, I am a strawberry shortcake eating fool.  Poised dangerously close to me was a dish of strawberry shortcake.  As I slinked closer the strawberry scent tantalized my olfactory senses. OH NO! The strawberry shortcake was a candle made from paraffin and gel waxes.

     The candle maker finished up with the other customer just in time to see the disappointed look on my face.  She smiled and introduced herself as Valerie.  "I must have have one of those candles," I said while pointing at the candle.  We talked a little about the candle as she wrapped it up for me.  She mentioned another candle maker's booth I should visit while at the fair, Candles by Donald.  I said I would try, as I waved goodbye, and continued up this little grassy rise toward another booth on my list to visit.

     "Ah, here it is, LindaButterfly Cards and Art," I thought, then “Look at all these cards”, I said quietly to myself. “Sir, what did you say”, said a voice with a British accent from behind the display. “There are so many cards” I said. “Yes, I try to provide a good selection, something for every occasion”, she replied, as she appeared in front of me, this woman with a big warm smile. “Hello, I am Linda”, she greeted me. “Is there something special you need or would you like to just look around?”  “Just one question; all of the cards I have looked at are beautiful on the outside, but with no writing on the inside, why?”  “Good question, the card cover has different meanings. This way each person who buys a card can write something appropriate to the occasion at hand. Possibly to convey a meaningful personal message or recount some past experience”.   She paused a moment, “The individual can make a card so much more than just a card.  Look around, enjoy looking at the cards, ask and I will help you.”  I had already made my selection, "Linda, I want to look over in the LindaCaterpillar section of your booth, will you wrap these two cards up for me".  I paused a moment then said,"Yes, one Winter Fir Trees greeting card, and one Frosty Ground greeting card".

 

     Linda's booth was divided into two sections, I was in the LindaCaterpillar section now.  This section is devoted to artworks done in acrylic, watercolor, pastels, and much more.  I looked at the acrylics first; while looking, a painting named Dancing Tree captured my attention in a special way.  From the acrylics I shifted my gaze to the pastels where a work titled Trees by the Lake moved me, but "I like all of Linda's Art", I thought.  I asked first, then took these pictures to share with you.  "Linda, I have to leave your wonderful booth, it is clear to me I need much more time."  We said our goodbyes and she gave me her business card with her on-line store addresses on the front, LindaCaterpillar and LindaButterfly Cards and Art.

By the Lake, pastel

Dancing Tree, acrylic

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     The next booth on my list was just ahead. Oh, this looks like fun, Custom Clothing and Costumes for You, the banner over the booth read. Look at all the costumes, Luke Skywalker, Snow White, Sheriff Woody, Jessie the cowgirl, Oompa Loompa, and so many more.  All the props needed to take a kid well into a "make pretend world", AND all the props needed to take an adult well into a "make pretend world"; why should kids have all the fun.  More than just costumes, this is handmade quality clothing. I asked the woman who designs and makes all of this beautiful clothing if I could take some photos to share.  Here are a few teasers:

     Custom Clothing and Costumes for You has an on-line store with listings of all the costumes. Please remember that Custom is NO problem for this Artisan.

     I left the costume booth with a smile and crossed over the grassy field to another row of booths.  The colors here abound as each tent roof perimeter is lined with triangular flags, and the booth front displaying a large banner with the store name, and logo.  The tables covered with colored cloths and lined with ribbons, all designed to attract the attention of a potential buyer.  The day continued to be pleasant with good lighting for numerous photo opportunities.

     I think I will visit my friend Shelly, her booth Handmade Creations by Shelly is just a head.  Shelly was very happy to see me, and put together an incredible display of handmade items.  We started at a corner table where she talked about each item in this grouping of different crocheted designs, and all the time knitting a scarf. Shelly loves to knit and there is hardly a time when she is not knitting something.  While looking at all the items she had knitted and crocheted, I noticed a beautiful book or album cover. 

 

     This is a very nice way to display the photo album on the coffee table.  Next to the crochet album/book cover was a hand knitted felted tote bag.  There were small pouches and bags that would work well with anything that fit into them.  The selection seemed endless as we walked around the booth, I saw scarf's, hats, gloves, ponchos, caplets, purses, felted bags and designer collections.

Hand Knitted Woman Shawl

Hand Crochet Pom Pom Scarf

     I took a few photos and said my goodbyes.  The day was going fast, with the sun already getting low on the horizon.
     I wanted to visit Susan's booth just ahead on the left, ah there it is near that big tree.  Her banner with shop name in big colorful letters, Susanneedlehands is displayed in the front of her booth. Susan loves to sew, knit, and do crafts. The tables, piled high with felted bowls, felted plates, scarves, knit bags, water bottle carriers, and even a teddy bear looked beautiful.

Crochet Storage Bowls

Handmade Knit Teddy Bear

Water Bottle Carrier

Handmade Knit Scarf

     Her shop is non-profit with all the money going to various charities that can always use some cash. I could not stay long, time was not on my side I said goodbye to Susan and headed to a booth close to the exit.

     This would be my last stop, I was hungry and tired, but so happy to have spent some time looking at crafts, taking pictures, and just being outside on this beautiful day.  It was time to meet Kelsi and Ryan, the booth Kelsilove, like the store is a collection of everything.  Many of the items are made from recycled materials, something I love to see.  Kelsi greeted me while modeling her Soft Olive Green Knitted Scarf.  The scarf looked beautifully warm, and very soft.  Oh, thats Ryan in the other photo, Kelsi's neck is not that hairy.

 

Kelsi and Ryan were eager to show me a wonderful collection of environmentally friendly jewelry, brooches, scarves, photography, art, and more.  Here are some Photos one of a unique brooch, and another of a pair of Big Green Bulb Earrings.

 

     Ryan had some of his art on display.  He told me of his new on-line store called On The Floor Studio where he sells digital prints of his not so digital paintings.  These are great, certainly a "must see" place to go.  Here are two of his many wonderful prints.

Look What We Found

Wave of Paranoia

     I said my goodbyes to Kelsi and Ryan, and walked down the slight hill toward the parking lot.  All the while I contemplated this fantastic day I had at this virtual country craft fair.  In closing, please visit all of these artisans at their on-line stores.  There you are sure to find unique, quality, handmade works of art, each and every one.