Candlemaking: A Beginners Guide is an 82 minute DVD on candle making. The hostess, Sharyn Pak, teaches the viewer how to make several different types of candles, and variations of those methods. She teaches several different techniques; from the very simple candle pellets that are poured into a glass container holding a wick, to more complex creations like dipped candles. Throughout the video, Pak shares tips, tricks, and safety precautions. The DVD also has bonus materials that are viewable on the computer, including materials and tool lists, troubleshooting tips, and instructions for making a dipped candle drying rack.

The information presented is geared more towards teens and adults. Later elementary school students could easily participate in some of the projects, with some adult supervision. The first couple of projects are the simplest, and the ones presented later in the video are more difficult. Before beginning each project, Ms. Pak displays each item that will need to be used. Every segment shows all the steps from beginning to end, including little tidbits to help make the project go more smoothly.

At times, Ms. Pak's tone of voice seems a little condescending. Also, there is an occasional break in the instruction of how to make a candle, in order to discuss tips and tricks about candles. Usually they are relevant to the current project, but occasionally they seem to be randomly placed. In those cases, the segments seem a little out of place and disjointed. Overall, however, I feel this is a quality instructional video for anyone interested in making candles. It is very comprehensive, and covers many topics in order to get the novice candle maker started.

Product Review by Marisa Corless, MH, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, January, 2012