De. Bob should stick to soap. His candle making book is not for a beginner who just wants to know the basics in simple terms and get started. Although I am sure some of the information will be helpful to the more advanced, it was not what I was looking for to get started.
Rating: 2 / 5

This book lacks enough detail on the basics and focuses too much on advanced projects to be a good beginners book. The photos are nice but often not very helpful. If you have experience as a candle maker, you might find some good ideas. True beginners should look to “Basic Candle Making” by Eric Ebeling, editor.
Rating: 3 / 5

If you are only going to invest in one book — this should be the one! In addition to instructions to create classic and creative candles, there are great explanations of wax types, molds, safety precautions, and more. All this information is presented with words of encouragement and enhanced with well-photographed examples.
Rating: 5 / 5

This book is excellent for beginners but also for more advanced candlemakers. It includes a wealth of information on ingredients and equipment both store bought and homemade. It covers a variety of candle types including pillar, container, gel, floating, fantasy and tapers to name some. It also includes handy charts like figuring out how much wax you need for a mold or how to create a particular color. Good list of suppliers too. Lots of creative ideas for more advanced candlemakers and step by step instructions for beginners. There is something for everyone.
Rating: 5 / 5

“To waken interest and kindle enthusiasm is the sure way to teach easily and successfully. ” Tryon Edwards (1809-1894)This quote,(pun intended), describes Essentailly Candles to a “T”. Starting with the history of candles,then proceeding to choosing the correct wax, wick and additives, then to the projects and great photos, Bob and Kate McDaniel have done an excellent job of teaching basic and advance skill in candlemaking. The book is easily read, the projects are illustrated with great photos and it is packed full of information useful to either the novice or more experienced candlemaker. I found the infomation on color, blending techniques, wax quantites for molds and differences and uses of various waxes to be most informative and helpful. I have made candles for over 20 years and still learned many new and useful things from this book. There are many books with pretty pictures and directions for projects. Essentially Candles not only gives the projects and the step-by-step directions but also offers the foundation information necessary to explore other possibilities. A must have for anyone wishing to know the why of candlemaking.
Rating: 5 / 5