Scent Lab Candle Making Workshop by Red Hill Candle Co

The appeal here is simple: you leave with two candles you made yourself, not just a pleasant memory and a hole in your afternoon. At Red Hill Candle Co’s 90-minute Scent Lab workshop in Dromana, you’ll get an introduction to candle making, choose scents from a collection of 40 fragrances and make one large soy candle and one small tin candle.

I like two things in particular: you can mix up to three fragrances for each candle, so the finished scent is your own, and the instructor explains the process in a way that’s easy to follow. The main consideration is timing: the large candle needs two to three hours to set, so you may need to return later, wait nearby or pay AUD10 to have both candles posted within Australia.

The details that matter

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• Make two candles: Your workshop includes a large soy candle and a small tin soy candle.
• Choose from 40 fragrances: Blend as many as three scents for each candle.
• Set aside 90 minutes: The class combines an introduction to candle making with hands-on work.
• Enjoy a drink on arrival: Choose a complimentary glass of bubbles or cold-pressed juice.
• Plan for collection: The large candle takes about two to three hours to set. Collect it later or arrange postage for AUD10 anywhere in Australia.

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A 90-minute workshop, not a factory tour

The class takes place at Red Hill Candle Co, at 1/4-6 Thomson Terrace in Dromana, on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. It’s a sit-down creative activity with a practical result, rather than a visit where you simply browse candles or watch someone else make them.

You begin with a talk introducing candle making and fragrances. That gives you a starting point before you choose your blends. The session is in English, and all necessary materials are included, so there’s no need to arrive with equipment or prior experience.

The workshop lasts 90 minutes, which is long enough to make the process feel like more than a quick demonstration, but short enough to fit into a day out on the peninsula. Expect a mix of listening, choosing and making. The instructor explains how the process works, then you get to put that guidance to use.

The class is described as fun and easy to follow, and that matters if you’ve never made a candle. You don’t need to arrive with a clear idea of fragrance notes or a carefully planned design. You can start with what you like, ask for guidance and make decisions as you go.

Finding a fragrance that feels like yours

The fragrance choice is one of the workshop’s best features. There are 40 scents available, and you can mix up to three for each candle. That gives you room to experiment without turning the activity into an endless hunt for the perfect combination.

If you enjoy making things personal, this is where the class earns its keep. You can create two different blends, or keep a theme across both candles. The details of the available fragrances can change, so check Red Hill Candle Co’s website before your session if you want to see what’s on offer.

You don’t have to make the same scent twice. The large soy candle and small tin candle give you two chances to try a combination, adjust it or simply follow your nose. The freedom to choose is part of the fun, but it also means you’ll need to make a few decisions during the workshop.

Think about the kinds of scents you already like at home, but don’t feel obliged to arrive with a plan. A good approach is to narrow your choices as you smell them, then ask the instructor for help if you’re unsure how to combine them. You’re there to learn and experiment, not pass a fragrance exam.

From demonstration to hands-on candle making

After the introduction, the workshop moves from explanation to making. You’ll get an apron from the operator, and the materials needed for the session are supplied. The class is structured so you can follow the process step by step, rather than being left to guess what comes next.

The hands-on part is a good fit for people who like an activity with a clear outcome. You’re not only choosing a scent; you’re making a large candle and a smaller tin candle to take home. The first can become a feature at home, while the tin is a compact second creation or a gift.

The instructor’s role is important here. A clear explanation helps make the process approachable, especially if you’re new to candle making. The feedback about the class describes the teaching as easy to follow, and the workshop’s format gives you time to ask questions as you work.

There’s a tactile, slightly messy side to making things, which is why the apron is a welcome touch. Wear light, comfortable clothing, preferably quick-dry material, and walking shoes. You don’t need to dress up for a candle studio, and practical clothes are the sensible choice.

Two candles add real value

The listed starting price is about US$75.35 for the 90-minute workshop. In return, you get the class, the materials, a drink on arrival and two finished soy candles. That makes the cost easier to assess than a workshop where you pay mainly for instruction and leave empty-handed.

The value depends on what you want from the session. If you’re keen to learn a new craft and enjoy making something personal, the included candles are a meaningful part of the experience. If you only want to buy a candle, this is a longer and more expensive way to do it than shopping at the store.

You can add another large candle for AUD45 when booking. That may suit you if you want more time making, need an extra present or want a second version of a fragrance blend. It’s optional, so there’s no need to commit unless you know you want another candle.

A complimentary glass of bubbles or cold-pressed juice is included on arrival. It adds a friendly start to the session, but the main value is in the guided activity and the two candles you make. Don’t book solely for the drink; book because you want a relaxed, hands-on class.

The candle needs time after class

The workshop lasts 90 minutes, but your visit may take more planning than that. The large candle needs about two to three hours to set, so you won’t necessarily be able to take it away as soon as the class ends.

You can collect your candles later that day or during the shop’s operating hours. If returning doesn’t suit your plans, Red Hill Candle Co can post them anywhere in Australia for AUD10. Factor that fee into your budget if you’re visiting from elsewhere or have a full day planned.

This is the main practical wrinkle. If you’re spending the day around Dromana, a later collection may work well. If you have a tight schedule, are travelling a long distance or are heading straight to another activity, postage may be the easier option. Check your plans before booking so the setting time doesn’t catch you out.

A good fit for couples, families and creative afternoons

This workshop suits people who want to do something together without needing special skills. It could work well as a date, a small-group outing or a low-key family activity. Participants must be at least 10 years old, so it can include older children who are interested in making things.

It’s also a pleasant option if you’re looking for a break from driving around the peninsula. The class gives you a fixed activity with something tangible to take home, and it doesn’t depend on being an expert or having a particular artistic talent. Curiosity is enough.

For a large group seeking a private session, Red Hill Candle Co offers private workshops. You’ll need to contact the operator for details and arrangements. The standard class is not described as a private booking, so don’t assume you’ll have the room to yourselves.

The workshop space is generally upstairs in the new Scent Lab. The activity is described as stroller- and wheelchair-accessible, but the upstairs location is worth checking if you have mobility concerns. Contact the operator in advance at +61 491 044 641 to discuss what arrangements may be available.

Getting to the Scent Lab in Dromana

The meeting point is Red Hill Candle Co, 1/4-6 Thomson Terrace, Dromana VIC 3936. Transport is not included, so you’ll need to make your own way there. Brasser Reserve Dog Off Leash Area is about a three-minute walk away via Thomson Terrace, which can help you orient yourself once you’re nearby.

The shop’s stated opening hours are Thursday to Sunday, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Your voucher is valid only for the date and time specified, so check your booking details and arrive on time. Late arrivals and no-shows are not refundable.

You can enter with your mobile voucher. The workshop is scheduled on a specific date and time, and the operator notes that timing can change due to traffic or weather conditions. If you’re unsure about access, arrival or mobility arrangements, contact the operator ahead of time rather than leaving questions until the day.

Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the activity date, using local destination time, qualify for a full refund. In the case of unforeseen events or extreme weather, the operator may cancel and offer the option to reschedule. These terms are useful to keep in mind if your plans are still shifting.

Should you book this candle workshop?

I’d book this if you want a creative activity on the Mornington Peninsula and like the idea of leaving with two custom-scented candles. The clear instruction, 40 fragrance choices and included drink give the 90-minute session a well-rounded feel, while the two finished candles help justify the price.

Skip it if you’re short on time, uninterested in making things or unable to plan around the candle’s setting period. The class itself is brief, but collection may call for a second stop or a postage fee. If those details work for you, it’s a practical, hands-on way to spend part of an afternoon in Dromana.

FAQ

How long is the Scent Lab candle-making workshop?

The workshop lasts 90 minutes. Your large candle then needs about two to three hours to set.

What do I make during the workshop?

You make one large soy wax candle and one small tin soy wax candle. You can choose and combine up to three fragrances for each candle.

How many fragrances can I choose from?

There are 40 fragrances to choose from. The selection may vary, so check Red Hill Candle Co’s website for the available scents.

Is a drink included?

Yes. You receive a complimentary glass of bubbles or cold-pressed juice on arrival.

Can I take my candles home straight after the class?

The large candle takes about two to three hours to set. You can collect your candles later that day or during operating hours, or arrange postage for AUD10 anywhere in Australia.

What is the minimum age to participate?

Participants must be aged 10 or older.

Where is the workshop held, and when is Red Hill Candle Co open?

The workshop is at 1/4-6 Thomson Terrace, Dromana VIC 3936. The stated opening hours are Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.