What I Wish I Knew Before I Started Making Car Freshies / Freshie Money & Time Saving Tips + Advice

Hey y'all! So today's video is jam packed with tons of money & time saving tips and other advice that I've learned going on 5 years of making car freshies! These are all things that I wish I would've known when I started, so I hope you find something helpful that you can take away for your fresheners!
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[@teresamaiden2910]

I'd put that nasty smelling batch to work! I plan on making a line with nasty scents so jilted gf/bf can leave a "going away" present in the cheaters car/apartment. I have 6 women wanting to buy them already & I haven't even started yet

[@CreativelyErica]

Omg what a great idea 🤌😂 that is hilarious

[@NeenahAmbrosia]

I mean period

[@chartrucker]

We only carry about 24 different fragrances. I find it easier to mix the beads and fragrance and add the mica powder as I'm actually making the order. Therefore we only have 24 half gallon mason jars that are fragranced beads and a couple of bowls that we use that used to be from my kitchen set to mix colored beads in. Hopefully that helps somebody that doesn't have a lot of space.

[@rofobowman]

I do the same! Uncolored beads that are prescented. Color as needed.

[@kathleenjones6098]

Thanks SO much for the tips!! I've been wanting to start a small freshie craft biz, but I have been hesitant because I have such low self-esteem. Your tips and periodic videos are great! I feel as if it's giving me a bit more confidence to get out there and give it a go. Thank you for being you, Erica! You truly are a selfless individual. 🙏 💐😁

[@creativecook1]

Girl... Ive had low self esteem but you know what Jesus loves you so much he thought you were to die for

[@TiffanyinOklahoma]

You can do it!

[@kariann4852]

It took me a while to get confidence...it will come...the biggest thing is don't let anyone take advantage. .I have people constantly wanting a discount or to bring me their own shirt or tumbler etc...stick to your prices! Good luck in ur crafting!🎉

[@jo-annjewett198]

You can use parchment paper on regular cookie cutters. Great idea on the cooking spray!

[@Sassyspectical]

Thanks for the tips. That’s why I love your channel because you share things that some channels would not. Due to a high volume of people making them these days, I guess I understand. You definitely need to be creative and put your own touch on them to sell them. I only make them for myself, but I definitely think a important tip is do not over bake them. If you do, the scent doesn’t last as long and will smell almost like burnt oil.

[@kimritcherson7409]

Cowboy is amazing! If it was from Lonestar. Can’t really describe but a good mans cologne. Works really good in freshies. I am picky on my smells. I want leather and not able to find the perfect one Cowboy is the next best!

[@rhondareese1607]

Do you you have to have liability insurance to sell car freshies

[@Sherryprince-wv4fu]

This has been very helpful @creativelyerica. I am in the process of purchasing all my supplies and this was so helpful for me. I use to do a lot of crafts when I was about your age but I became ill and had to stop. I worked with paints and toxic sprays and caught Sarcoidosis. That is why I decided to do this because the oils are non toxic and I assumed everything was until you mentioned the spray for the cookie cutters so as for my 2 cents worth please wear a mask while spraying...it just may save your life.

[@notthepolice1705]

Valid point, however she is talking about cooking spray.

[@Melissa-xh4gx]

Thank you. This has really helped. My daughter is getting ready to start a car freshie business. So this has really helped us. We have been doing our research to be able to help her. Shes going to start out slow and small see what sells and doesn't sell. Any suggestions is welcomed.

[@kaitlinf6929]

Im trying to get an idea of which brands of oils to buy. I dont want to do car freshies, but your vid was what popped up first.

[@dianejohanson98]

I’ve never tried making Freshies, but I have bought many and from different vendors at stores and craft shows and every one I have bought all have had the pointy edges on top. No one has attempted removing them, and actually, I don’t mind that they are like that. Has nothing to do with the color or scents. I don’t use them in my car, but I love putting them in my bathrooms and closets. Gives the bathrooms, I have 3, a fresh smell. Also keeps the closets from smelling stale because they are closed up all the time. Works great!

[@CraftySheenaa]

Loved it thank you. ❤

[@nikki3321100]

Wow!!! This video was so helpful Thanks for sharing ❤❤❤

[@kayleewipf6301]

I add my mica powder after the oils are cured and it works wonderful! Do you have any cons to doing it this way?

[@AAa-to2tz]

Thank you, thank you, thank you, for the spikey edge tip.. i never thought they could be pushed down.. AWESOME TIP...💖💖💖💖

[@jeffsartroom]

I am just starting to consider doing freshies. I picked your video as my first because I saw your nose ring and had a feeling you were an above average crafter. I was so glad I was right. I subscribed right away and saved this video for future references. I look forward to seeing more of your videos/

[@randigrimm187]

Hi, thank you so much for your videos, I am an up and coming freshie maker and I have been doing my research for the past couple of weeks, my mom just placed an order for some of the supplies for me to get started and I can't wait ! I've learned quite a few things from watching your videos! I also wanted to drop a tip I seen in another video, you can use paint pens for decorating freshies as well, I am going to give that a shot as soon as my supplies arrive. The only thing I need to order is aroma oils. Again thank you so much!!

[@teamgreenrocks]

If you do make too many ahead of time - do you have any idea how long the scent will last in the smell proof bags (i bought the ones from your link)

[@theresaharrison1348]

I’m a beginner and have been watching your tutorials every other evening for a few hours. I’ve learned a lot. I recently used a cheaper fragrance and it’s been 12 days and still not cured. Vs the more expensive scent that only took 3 days to cure.

[@CreativelyErica]

Wow, isn't it crazy how the quality really has such an impact on the product 🤔

[@jerridyke8706]

@@CreativelyErica with that in mind which fragrance oil do you recommend?

[@lalabear965]

This helps so MUCH!!! THANK YOU!!💕

[@kimberlyglover18]

Thx so much for ur help!! I'm new and don't have a lot of money to waste!!! But I got hurt in a car wreck and have to be off work awhile so I hope and pray I can do this. Again bless u. ---Renee G.

[@christinacampos2195]

Great tips!!!! First time vent freshie maker!

[@jjohnston2083]

Cowboy is awesome!! Make you want to have one! Lol I make candles and it’s a hot seller 😊

[@moniquesmith2044]

If you add so many decorations, does the scent tend to not be as strong or not last as long

[@diannaarnold4548]

Amazing . Wanting to get started on a crystal healing refreshers

[@ilgesmccool]

This is a great advice video. I have learned so much! Thank you for posting.

[@debbieroberts2989]

When you say card stock, what do you mean? I’m assuming it a specific weight card stock? If so, what weight please. Thanks, I love your tutorials!

[@delisak2214]

Great video !! Thank you for sharing all your tips! ❤

[@marygasseling9662]

The video was very informative and helpful!

[@CreativelyErica]

Thanks for watching!

[@mackenzieowens161]

do you know of any print-on-demand companies that sell air fresheners?

[@gal2know]

Your video is amazing.... very informative

[@faithmcsee5244]

Thank you so much for the awesome tips!!! I will be starting my own Freshie business next year!!

[@rhondareese3908]

Which is better add the mica powder before or after. Why do some add the mica after they cure their beads?

[@czintx]

Can I please get some suggestions? What freshie smells do well and last a while. The last few smells I have bought onlt seem to smell good for maybe a week or so, then gone. Seems like a waste when the smells don't last.

[@desheianstinson26]

Thanks for the tips, I'm new to making freshies.

[@rhondareese1607]

How can I doctor beads that the sent is too light .

[@susanstockton6436]

Can you use toaster ovens

[@CreativelyErica]

Yes, I just haven't so not sure on temp and time on those

[@lisabrooks1364]

Thank you so much for your tips. I’ve been thinking about adding freshies to my craft booth in October. I just got a starter kit and some extra silicone molds and beads to make some. Gonna start with some basic essential oils first. And get some feedback from the buyers at craft fair.

[@randigrimm187]

Hi Lisa, you may have already figured this out but I wanted to drop the comment just in case you haven't. I've learned from watching videos that essential oils will not absorb into the aroma beads as well as fragrance oils :)

[@4myfavoritethings]

Love your videos. Would like to try tghese. Can you bake them on parchment paper ?

[@bigcatattitudes2]

I bake mine on parchment paper

[@nikkipaterson7196]

Cowboy is caramel/vanilla. Like a cowboy alcohol shot 😊

[@elizabethwarner4510]

Thank you for the advice

[@lindalindasantos6675]

I have a question. Have you heard of putting the paint in the mold before putting your aroma beads ?

[@lauralockwood8435]

How long does the scent last in the jar?

[@mahonnajames6931]

❤Do you have just videos on how to start out with this business thanks for sharing your a blessing

[@Maydreams27]

I have a question. I'm going on a cruise and would like to make some car freshies out of a duck mold. from what you say the aroma beadd obviously shrink down. Is there a way in the cooking process to add more beads? So the duck mold fills up all the way? This is my first time even thinking about doing a freshie so i'm watching your videos to learn before I start.

[@angelnajar6072]

do you recommend making in the air fryer?

[@ridgehall1612]

One more question, have you tried to make them in a air fryer?

[@samanthaveitia9134]

Can you show us what beads and oil brands are best to use?

[@CreativelyErica]

Absolutely 🥰

[@dezireevangoethen2742]

How long does it usually take for the beads to air out so they dont have that weird smell to them?

[@TheTxsRedhead]

How do I use vinyl on my freshies? Not the silicone ones, but the metal type. I know I’ve seen others do it but I’m pretty new to freshies. I made some crosses and put a vinyl saying on them. But not sticking, bummer. What can I use to make it stick! Love your videos!!

[@michellealexander6044]

How long do you air out your beads ? And is there a certain way you air them ??

[@kariann4852]

That's what I was wondering...I saw another maker say a few days, till she couldn't smell them? Idk I've watched so many of these this morning ...against my better judgement, I already have too many items ...lol

[@racheld.l.c2934]

Has anyone tried the 32pk of glitter shakers from 5 below? Or any decorating items from dollar tree? In your experience is it better to get decorating items t dollar tree or hobby lobby/ Joann’s?

[@ashlynhudson23]

Does acrylic paint work just as well as puffy paint? I haven’t tried the acrylic paint yet. Will it be vibrant and thick?

[@elainehinton1613]

I am just starting making them wanting to know if it's good to cook them on both sides

[@user-fk4gb4fg5c]

How long does it typically take to get the strong plastic smell out of the unscented beads???

[@stephanielopez3579]

What website would you recommend for the aroma beads and for the oils? I'm assuming the molds are from Amazon or just radon stores? I really want to start making my own freshies and I have never done it before😊

[@melannieworld]

What machine do you used to cut the image around? Do you use scissors ✂️? I want to get into this type of business.

[@pinkyj8109]

Tips on the paint… the paint tends to come off a little on the packaging. How do I prevent this?

[@mgscrapbooking]

what essential oil scent is best that u recommend I use on a wedding ring freshie .I am undecided

[@karenchinn9608]

I am new to making freshies we want to do a craft show that is 3 days long how many would you bring

[@wandafranklin5116]

I wish I knew how to get a previous smell out of my silicone mold so it doesn’t bake into the next fragrance I use lol😊

[@randocalrissian347]

I use vinegar and baking soda.

[@deborahevors4850]

Thank you!! 😊

[@AellisE-pm2yq]

Why are my freshies have bubbles ? Once they come out of the mold?

[@CreativelyErica]

I have never seen that before! Like actual bubbles on top orrr? Tell me everything- what beads, fragrance oil, silicone mold?

[@erika_salinas]

Omg mine too! I tried using just a chunky glitter on the actual silicone mold but I had bubbles on the top where there was No glitter.. but I didn’t use mica powder I left them clear.. I didn’t think I had to color them… but they melted super smooth not bumpy like usual and had lots of bubbles.. I thought maybe Mica is a must?? Or I need to lower the oven temp when I’m not coloring them? 🤷🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️

[@amandasage5596]

What company do you recommend for oils and aroma beads?

[@Itseasypeesy]

Hi.. can you pls tell what that green board actually called??or link for it??

[@kaylastaton9513]

If you’re talking about the board behind her it’s called a peg board

[@selinapresley6583]

Thank you so much for all the tips!!! I have a question....I am just starting out and have a problem with the paint sticking to the scent proof bags I"m using...even after letting them air dry for 24 hours. Am I supposed to seal these with anything? I have watched everyone of your videos and ordered from your links but do not remember seeing anything about sealing them.

[@montaguebeefandcandleco]

I have the same problem. I put these in the largest bag I have so that I can stick my hand in the bag and lift the bag off the paint so that the paint doesn't smear when taking the Freshie out of the bag. ☺️

[@amberhaley8871]

Use acrylic matte paint and you can also put a piece of parchment paper between the bag and the freshie.

[@september_soul]

Where do you purchase your beads? I would love to know!

[@donnachildress3235]

👍

[@sandralodder3267]

What settings is your oven set on? Love your videos

[@marikiemarie7622]

Can these not have scent added. Are they just thrown away

[@user-rp7qm4kj6q]

Can I cool my freshies in the refrigerator?

[@Dazzle500]

Thank you

[@bbrittney99]

Where do you begin to look for good quality oils?!

[@dannycherry7809]

Which moles do you prefer? Medal or silicone

[@CreativelyErica]

Definitely silicone ❤️

[@oneidarivera5830]

How do you add the color to the freshies?

[@jenniferwagner4580]

Can you use vinyl to decorate them

[@nikkijenkins6641]

What kind of aroma beads do you use?

[@joesanders3518]

Can you link the link for the squeeze bottles?

[@faithpopenoe5404]

Link please

[@A-d-d-i-e-j-o]

can you use essential oils?

[@theresiamackey7951]

how much do you sell car freshies for?

[@josey998]

What size cookie cutter please

[@Crissyscraftsandgiftbaskets]

How do you get your acrylic paint not to crack when it dries?

[@CreativelyErica]

I've noticed it does more cracking when you do a super thin layer, so I usually do 1 thick layer or I just go over it a second time where it's needed

[@ashleycarter272]

I just started doing freshies! im not sure where to find the squeeze bottles with the tips!

[@briantaggart1470]

Amazon

[@gracierosemiller4411]

I have a candle business so I have a fairly good idea of what FO to use but why would you spray your freshie before you sell it. It seems to me that you could scent them as you are selling them. If you buy sample size FO you are going to end up spending more than what you would if you purchased the large size. Plus you should be letting your customers know that when the scent leaves they can either purchase a small bottle of FO from you or they can purchase FO themselves and add additional scents.

[@sunshinegypsea]

What is FO?

[@rhondarhodes1586]

Fragrance oil

[@ridgehall1612]

Hey I do have a question, would there be a issue making these with brand shapes? Like a Apple, Nike, Chevy or another logo like that? Any legal issues? Thanks!

[@heatherconte5445]

Yes if a logo is trademarked you can't sell it or you risk being sued.

[@bigcatattitudes2]

You would have to have a license to do so

[@ccassada2007]

You said to buy oils by the sample. When I checked the sample only gave you one ounce. Doesn't it take more than that to make a freshie?

[@CreativelyErica]

I only buy the samples for the fragrances I've never smelt before. When I do a jar I typically do 8oz of beads to 2oz of fragrance oil but just like with cooking, you can half the recipe so for 1oz oil you would only add 4oz beads to be able to test that scent.

[@ccassada2007]

@@CreativelyErica would that be a small cookie cutter?

[@CreativelyErica]

@Cindy Cassada yep, I would use them as "sample" freshies at craft shows & events for people to smell before purchasing a larger one. Or they could be vent clip freshies. Or I just used them for my car but if I didn't like the scent it was only a lil money wasted vs more with the larger bottles.

[@bigcatattitudes2]

She states she uses a ratio of 4:1 so it would be 4oz beads to 1oz fragrance which an ounce typically fills your regular size molds that are offered

[@kathywhitsell5546]

Where do you get those fine tip paint bottles from?

[@amberhaley8871]

Amazon

[@ballinger29ify]

We tried to make some and it's been about 2 months the beads are still sticking to the jar

[@krislynreaves3466]

I’ve learned That’s averagely the brand of beads you’re using!!

[@michaelacolorsandcreates4030]

I want to start making these in my area. I know nothing about what I need or how to market them. Can anyone help me in this.

[@CreativelyErica]

Check out my car freshie playlist, I have a ton of tutorials (all the supplies I use are listed and linked under the video descriptions). As far as marketing, check out my craft fair video, that's how I got started (and social media).

[@michaelacolorsandcreates4030]

@@CreativelyErica thank you so much

[@drawwithliv5724]

How long did you wait for the glue smell to go away ?

[@CreativelyErica]

It varies on the beads and how strong the smell is. Sometimes after a week the smell was gone and others I had sitting for a whole month to air out.

[@drawwithliv5724]

Thank you!

[@aliciacoccarelli5927]

How do I find you on TikTok?

[@CreativelyErica]

@creatively.erica and @paintedgypsydesign

[@ashlynhudson23]

Why make three different colors for one cow? Why not just cure your beads, then separate and color in ziplock bags then bake? I’m so torn about whether to cure my beads with mica powder before or after..

[@ZealousDay]

Try both ways and see if that works for you. I’ve seen her mention in her past videos that coloring it afterwards didn’t work for her. I’ve heard it works for others just depends on how much pigment you use and some other things but try it out and see. That’s what I’m gonna do

[@Gab.TXE1234]

When I make my cow freshies that’s what I do! It’s all gonna be the same scent. So might as well get 3 separate bags and add the mica powder.

[@marciemcgough2104]

Your so pretty but please get rid of earings on your nose.

[@TheTruble274]

HOW RUDE!

[@mickelsonfamilyhomestead]

Will my oven smell like the fragrance and when I cook food will it taste like it? 🫠🤣

[@sunshinegypsea]

Same question here!! & I don’t even make freebies! Lmao but I was thinking that. 🤣😂