Hey there, can you introduce yourself?

My name is Sarah Ditchfield and I own a company called Candle by Events, which is a candle-making activity company. We offer a range of fun, hands-on and creative events all around candle-making for individuals, groups and organisations. Our events include children and adult birthday parties, hen parties, public workshops, family fun days and also company parties and team building events across Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and London.

Tell us a bit about the book?

The book features 20 step-by-step projects with over 350 colour illustrations. It’s aimed at beginners and also those with some experience of candle making. My aim, when writing the book, was to cover every process from start to finish so it becomes the “go-to” book on candle-making. I have also graded the techniques by complexity: simple, moderate and more challenging, so there is a candle project in the book for everybody!

What was the inspiration behind it?

I was running a number of workshops at the Country Living Spring Fair at the Business Design Centre in London and was approached by the Head of Editorial for Search Press, who asked if I would be interested in writing a candle-making book for them. Two years later and the book has just been published!

Which is your favourite project?

My favourite project is the Christmas Pudding Candle – not only do I love making this candle, the photos in the book look fabulous and it’s a real talking-point when people see this candle for the first time.

What is your craft space like?

I have a lovely conservatory at the back of my house, which is bright, perfect for wrting and also making candles. I also use my conservatory for the public workshops I run.

Have you always been creative?

Yes, I would describe myself as a crafter!

When did you first start crafting?

My candle-making journey started when my husband bought me a candle-making kit one year for Christmas. In the evening my kitchen was transformed into a candle-making workshop and, whilst my children slept, I learnt the art of candle-making. The first candle I made was a purple lavender candle in a small jam jar – and I still have it today!

Who are your crafty heroes?

I don’t have a favourite author – but I have read lots of craft books – I find the internet and websites like Pinterest a great place for ideas.

Where do you find inspiration?

Visiting shops, craft fairs and chatting to people, who attend my workshops – we often stay in touch and share ideas.

What's next for you?

I am running a few workshops and two book events over the summer – then I’ll be preparing myself for the Christmas rush – everybody likes to learn how to make candles for Christmas so things get very busy from October!