Brooke Martin
Candles have been used for over two millennia, initially as a primary light source and in cultural ceremonies and spiritual worship. In the modern day, candles are also used for decoration, and sales of scented candles have seen a huge spike in recent years. Candles are made from wax and a wick, with the size of the flame and corresponding rate of burning controlled by the wick. Over the centuries, candle waxes have been developed from a variety of fats, oils, and waxy substances derived from animals, insects, plants, and even rocks. Ancient Egyptians made the first candles by dipping reeds in melted animal fat, while ancient Romans used papyrus. Ancient Chinese candles were made from whale fat and wax from seeds and insects. In the Middle Ages, beeswax candles were introduced in Europe, providing a cleaner, less foul-smelling burn. In the 1800s, candles were made from stearin, derived from animal fats, and paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining. Today, most candles are still made from paraffin wax, although beeswax, soy wax, palm wax, gels, and synthesized waxes are also used.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Candle-making techniques | Dipping or drawing a wick in molten wax or tallow, shaping by hand, pouring wax onto a wick, using moulds |
| Materials | Natural fat, tallow, wax, beeswax, whale fat, paraffin, stearin, carnauba wax, cotton, linen |
| Colours | Various |
| Scents | Various |
| Use | Lighting, decorative, symbolic, ceremonial, gifts |
| History | Evidence of candle use in early civilisations, mass production introduced in the 19th century, decline in use with the arrival of electric lighting |
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What You'll Learn
Candle wax types: paraffin, soy, beeswax, palm, gels, blends, etc
The types of wax used in candle-making have changed significantly over the centuries. In the past, candles were made from various forms of natural fat, tallow, and wax. Romans made candles from tallow and beeswax, with the latter being more expensive and reserved for the wealthy. In China, textual evidence suggests that candles were made from whale fat, beeswax, or stillingia tallow from the Chinese tallow tree.
Today, there are many different types of wax used in candle-making, including paraffin, soy wax, beeswax, palm wax, gels, and synthesized waxes. Paraffin wax, derived from petroleum, is the most commonly used candle wax today due to its low cost and lack of odour. It is often blended with other waxes, such as spermaceti and ceresin, to create a more durable product. Soy wax is also a popular choice for candle-making, especially for beginners, as it produces a smooth finish, strong fragrance, and reduced frosting. It is also known for its clean-burning properties.
Beeswax candles continue to be popular and are made from pure insect wax and paraffin, with a small amount of stiffening wax. The process of making beeswax candles involves dipping or pouring melted beeswax over a cotton wick, which is manually twirled to ensure an even coating.
Palm wax is another option for candle-making and is often blended with other waxes such as soy and coconut to create unique characteristics. Additionally, coconut wax is frequently blended with soy wax to produce high-quality candles with excellent scent throw and a smooth finish.
Other types of wax blends may include carnauba wax, derived from the carnauba palm, which helps regulate the softening or melting point of the finished wax. Candle makers can combine different wax types to achieve specific qualities and characteristics in their candles.
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Candle wicks: treated paper, cotton, zinc, zinc alloy, etc
Candle wicks are made from a variety of materials, including cotton, linen, paper, and zinc. In the past, wicks were made from plant fibres, oakum, and rolled rice paper. Today, most wicks are made from cotton or linen, which is woven or braided to ensure even burning. The wick is treated with chemicals or inorganic salt solutions to ensure it burns at a 90-degree angle, preventing the flame from being extinguished by the melted wax.
Cotton wicks are commonly used in beeswax candles, which are constructed using the dipping method or the pouring method. The dipping method involves repeatedly dipping the wick into molten wax until the desired thickness is achieved. The pouring method involves pouring melted wax over a suspended cotton wick, which is manually twirled to ensure an even coating.
Linen wicks are also used in candle-making, though less commonly than cotton wicks. Linen wicks are often treated with a chemical solution to improve their burning properties.
In ancient China, candles were made with rolled rice paper wicks, using wax derived from indigenous insects. Paper wicks are not commonly used in modern candle-making, though some decorative candles may use paper wicks for aesthetic purposes.
Some candles use a zinc-core wick, which is typically made from a blend of zinc and other metals, such as copper or aluminium. Zinc-core wicks are designed to provide a more consistent burn and reduce smoking. These wicks are often used in candles made with harder waxes, such as soy wax or palm wax, which require a stronger heat source to melt the wax.
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Candle scents: fragrance oils, essential oils, synthetic fragrances, etc
Candle makers can add fragrance oils to their candles to create a variety of scents. These oils are synthetic or blended oils designed to enhance the scent and improve performance in candles. They are usually added while the wax is in a liquid form, and they come in a wide range of fragrances, including floral, fruity, and earthy scents. Fragrance oils are also available in different sizes, from 1 oz samples to larger 1 lb bottles or even 5 lb jugs.
Fragrance oils are often preferred over essential oils for candle-making because essential oils are plant-derived and may not perform as well due to their volatility. However, some candle makers may choose to use essential oils for a more natural scent. It is important to note that not all fragrance oils are created equal, and some may contain harmful chemicals like phthalates. Reputable companies will manufacture their fragrance oils without phthalates and adhere to safety and purity standards set by organizations like the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) and the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM).
When creating custom scents, candle makers must follow specific guidelines for combining fragrances, as outlined by the IFRA. This ensures that the resulting blend is safe and effective. In addition to fragrance oils, candle makers can also add perfumes to their candles. However, perfumes may not provide the same level of scent performance and versatility as fragrance oils.
The type of wax used in candle-making can also affect the fragrance. For example, soy wax and paraffin wax are commonly used waxes that are compatible with a wide range of fragrance oils. Paraffin wax, in particular, is odourless, making it a popular choice for scented candles.
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Candle containers: glass, tin, ceramic, etc
Candle containers are made from a variety of materials, including glass, tin, and ceramic. The choice of container depends on personal preferences, budget, and intended use. Here are some considerations for each type of container:
Glass candle jars offer a more elegant and luxurious look. They are visually appealing, showcasing the vibrant colours and textures of the candle wax inside. Glass jars are also heat-resistant, making them a safer option for burning candles. Glass jars come in various shapes and sizes, from small 1-ounce jars to extra-large 70-ounce containers. They can be clear or coloured, adding to the overall aesthetic of the candle.
Tin candle containers, on the other hand, are lightweight and shatterproof. They are made from tin-plated steel or aluminium, which makes them perfect for packaging gel candles, aromatherapy candles, and soy candles. The lightweight nature of tins makes them easier to handle and transport, resulting in lower shipping costs. Tin containers are also more affordable than glass jars.
Ceramic candle jars are a relatively new option, gaining popularity for their natural, handmade feel. They are perfect for luxury, natural, and hygge-oriented candle lines. Ceramic jars are durable and versatile, and they can be repurposed into storage containers or planters for small plants. Ceramic jars are ideal for larger, more decorative candles.
When choosing a container, it is important to consider factors such as shape and size. For example, a jar wider than 3-1/2 inches may be difficult to wick with a single wick, especially for soy candles with added fragrance. Additionally, some jars may not be suitable for candle containers due to their inability to handle the heat created by a burning candle. Therefore, it is crucial to select containers specifically designed and tested for candle use.
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Candle styles: floating, infinity, sculptural, etc
Candles have been made using various materials and methods throughout history, evolving from natural fats, tallow, and waxes to modern paraffin wax, beeswax, and synthetic blends. Today, candles are often mass-produced, but many artisans still handcraft unique creations, such as sculptural candles. These decorative candles come in various styles, including floating, infinity, and sculptural designs, each with its own distinct characteristics and appeal.
Floating candles, for example, are designed to float on water, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere. They are often used as decorations or in ceremonies, with remote-controlled LED options available for added convenience and safety. Infinity candles, on the other hand, are known for their innovative design. While some infinity candles are real wax candles, others are battery-operated, flameless candles with a warm flickering effect. These candles are designed to withstand colder temperatures, making them suitable for outdoor use, and they often feature a timer function for added convenience.
Sculptural candles, as the name suggests, are works of art in themselves. These candles are valued for their aesthetic appeal, taking the form of organic or architectural shapes. They are often made from unscented wax, such as paraffin or beeswax, and can be displayed as decorative pieces or burned, creating a unique and ephemeral spectacle. Some sculptural candles even have names and character descriptions, adding a playful element to the candle-buying experience.
Additionally, candles can be classified by their wick type. Cotton or linen wicks are commonly used and are braided to ensure even burning. Wire-core wicks are also an option, and the choice of wick depends on the desired characteristics of the candle's flame. The preparation of the wicking is a crucial step in candle-making, as it ensures the candle burns efficiently and does not self-extinguish.
Candle styles vary widely, and the process of candle-making has evolved to accommodate different shapes, sizes, and purposes. Whether it's a floating candle adding ambiance to a room, an infinity candle providing outdoor illumination, or a sculptural candle serving as a decorative piece, candles continue to be a popular source of light and decoration.
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Frequently asked questions
Modern candles are typically made from paraffin wax, a waxy substance derived from petroleum. Other materials used in candle making include beeswax, stearic acid, and plant-based waxes such as bayberry wax. Historically, candles were made from various natural fats, tallow, and waxes, including animal fats and plant-based materials.
Candle-making involves three main steps: preparing the wick, preparing the wax base, and moulding or shaping the final candle. The wick is typically made from cotton or linen and is braided to ensure even burning. The wax base is heated to a liquid state, and any dyes or fragrances are added before it is poured into a mould or used to coat the wick through dipping or pouring methods.
Candle-making has a long history, with evidence of candle use in ancient civilisations like ancient Greece, Rome, China, Japan, India, and early Western cultures. Early candles were made from various natural materials, including animal fats, plant materials, beeswax, and whale fat. Candle-making techniques evolved over time, with the introduction of moulds in the 14th century and the development of mass-production methods in the 19th century.
Paraffin wax was introduced in the mid-19th century as a more economical alternative to traditional candle materials. It is odourless, burns cleanly, and is suitable for mass production, making candles more affordable for the general public.
There are various types of candles available, including decorative candles, scented candles, and coloured candles. Beeswax candles are known for their pleasant aroma and are often used in church ceremonies. Stearin candles, made from stearic acid, are also popular in Europe for their hard texture and clean burn.
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