Join a hands-on candle pouring class in Brightleaf Square, Durham's repurposed tobacco-warehouse district. In an hour you'll learn wax handling, scent blending, and basic candle safety, and leave with handcrafted candles and local maker knowledge.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the brick walk of Brightleaf Square and the street hums with weekday life: a trampling of footsteps, the clink of café cups, and the soft, warming scent of melted wax waiting inside. In a bright studio tucked inside repurposed tobacco warehouses, the instructor guides a small group through measuring wax, choosing fragrances, and steady-pouring into glass vessels — the process is deliberate, tactile, and oddly meditative.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; this is a seated, low-exertion craft activity
Wildlife
History
Brightleaf Square occupies former tobacco warehouse buildings from the late 19th century that were rehabilitated in the late 20th century into retail and cultural spaces.
Conservation
Paddywax and local shops often promote sustainable wax options and recycling of glass vessels; consider choosing soy or reclaimed-wax blends and reusing containers.
Reserve your spot on the Durham Candle Pouring Workshop at Paddywax today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Book in advance
Workshops are limited to small groups; reserve at least a few days ahead and note any accessibility or allergy needs.
Clothing and footwear
Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes you don't mind splattering — wax can spatter during pouring and is hard to remove from fabrics.
Declare allergies
If you have fragrance or soy/beeswax allergies, tell the host before the session so alternatives can be provided.
Bring a transport bag
Bring a small, sturdy tote to carry finished candles upright to avoid spills and protect them while curing.
Apron
Protects clothing from hot wax splashes and fragrance stains.
Closed-toe shoes
Protects feet from accidental drips of warm wax.
Reusable tote or box
Keeps poured candles upright and protected during transport.
Allergy-friendly fragrance or mask
Helpful for sensitive noses or those with fragrance allergies.