Maddie James
Barley twist candlesticks are thin, spiral-shaped candle holders that first appeared in the 1600s. They are often made out of wood, but can also be made out of brass. The process of making barley twist candlesticks by hand is demonstrated by woodturner Ernie Conover, who uses mahogany in his tutorial. Barley twist candlesticks are considered a good project for people new to woodturning. Victorian-era barley twist candlesticks are particularly popular, with designers such as A.E. Jones, Deykin & Harrison, and John Rose being notable for their craftsmanship in this area.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Wood, Oak, Brass |
| Origin | England |
| Date | 1900-1930s |
| Style | Antique, Victorian, Jacobean Revival |
| Design | Barley twist, spiral |
| Height | Tall |
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What You'll Learn
- History: Barley twist candlesticks date back to the 1600s
- Materials: These candlesticks are often made from wood, but can also be made from brass
- Design: The term barley twist refers to thin spiralling forms
- Makers: Popular makers include A.E. Jones, Deykin & Harrison, and John Rose
- Techniques: You can make barley twist candlesticks by hand using carving tools and woodturning techniques
History: Barley twist candlesticks date back to the 1600s
Barley twist candlesticks date back to the 1600s, with a rich history that adds to their charm and appeal. Over the centuries, these decorative items have endured as a testament to craftsmanship and aesthetic beauty.
The design of barley twist candlesticks is believed to have originated in the early 17th century, during the Jacobean era in England. This period witnessed a flourishing of furniture and decorative arts, with craftsmen experimenting with intricate carvings and turning techniques. The barley twist pattern, characterized by a spiral or twisted design resembling barley stalks, became a distinctive motif in furniture and architectural details.
During the 1600s, candlesticks were not only functional items but also symbols of status and craftsmanship. They adorned the homes of the wealthy and were often crafted from expensive materials such as silver, brass, or intricately carved wood. The barley twist design was particularly popular due to its intricate and eye-catching appearance, showcasing the skill of the craftsman.
Over time, barley twist candlesticks became a staple in homes across England and beyond. They were often passed down through generations, with families taking pride in their heirloom candlesticks. The design remained popular for centuries, with variations appearing in different styles and materials, reflecting the aesthetic tastes of each era.
Today, barley twist candlesticks are sought-after antiques, prized for their historical significance and aesthetic appeal. They are often found in antique shops, auctions, and private collections, with some pieces fetching high prices. These candlesticks continue to be admired for their intricate craftsmanship and the warmth and elegance they bring to any setting.
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Materials: These candlesticks are often made from wood, but can also be made from brass
Barley twist candlesticks are often made from wood, but brass candlesticks in this style are also common. Woodworkers and collectors alike appreciate the beauty of the wooden variety. Walnut, oak, and basswood are all popular choices for barley twist candlesticks, with oak being a particularly desirable option.
The wooden candlesticks are often carved by hand, with intricate details added by skilled artisans. This technique has been used for centuries, with some of the oldest wooden barley twist candlesticks dating back to the 18th century. The wood is carefully turned on a lathe, and the rest of the shaping is done by hand with carving tools. This labour-intensive process results in unique and eye-catching home decor items.
Brass barley twist candlesticks are also sought-after collectibles. Brass, a metal alloy made from copper and zinc, has been used for centuries to craft decorative items. Its lustrous golden colour and durability make it ideal for candlesticks. English manufacturers in the 19th century created elegant brass barley twist candlesticks, some featuring decorative brass tops and square bases.
Both wooden and brass barley twist candlesticks have a long history, with Victorian-era designs being particularly popular among collectors. The intricate twists and turns of the barley pattern, whether in wood or brass, create a unique and captivating aesthetic. These candlesticks are a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of their makers and continue to be cherished in modern times.
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Design: The term barley twist refers to thin spiralling forms
The barley twist design, named after the twisted stalks of barley, is a distinctive and decorative style featuring a spiralling effect. This design is commonly applied to the legs of chairs, tables, and other furniture pieces, as well as architectural elements like stair balusters and column details. The barley twist design can be crafted from various materials, including wood and metal, offering versatility in its applications.
The barley twist design originated in the 17th century during the reign of King Louis XIII, from 1610 to 1649, where it was a prominent element in furniture design. It then made its way to England in 1661 when King Louis' descendant, Katherine of Braganza, married Charles II. Since its introduction, the barley twist design has become synonymous with classic and traditional decor styles, often associated with vintage and antique furniture.
The barley twist design can vary in complexity, ranging from simple, lightly twisted forms to intricate, tightly spiralled patterns. This versatility allows for a range of design options that cater to different tastes and architectural preferences. For example, a barley twist dining table or chair set can become a focal point in a dining room, while a barley twist lamp or balustrade can add visual interest and elegance to a living space.
The barley twist design is created using a technique called "turning," where wood or metal is rotated on a lathe and shaped with tools. This method not only adds a decorative touch but also provides structural strength to the piece. The spiral design of the barley twist catches the light, creating dynamic movement and visual appeal in any space.
The barley twist design is a versatile and elegant style that can complement various interior design styles, from traditional to contemporary. By incorporating barley twist elements through accent pieces or subtler twist designs, homeowners can achieve a balanced and proportional look while adding a touch of historical charm to their spaces.
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Makers: Popular makers include A.E. Jones, Deykin & Harrison, and John Rose
A.E. Jones is a well-known maker of barley twist candle sticks, often crafting them from brass and copper. Deykin & Harrison are another popular maker of barley twist candle sticks, their pieces are often tall and made from brass. John Rose is also known for creating barley twist candle sticks, with some dating back to the Jacobean Revival period.
A.E. Jones' barley twist candle sticks are often characterised by their use of brass and copper. The brass is usually solid and decorated with twisted details, while the copper may be more understated. Deykin & Harrison's candle sticks are typically English made and stand at an unusual height. They are often made from brass and date back to circa 1910. John Rose's candle sticks are also English-made and are crafted from oak. They are often from the Jacobean Revival period.
The barley twist design is characterised by thin, spiralling forms. This style was especially popular in the 19th century, adorning furniture legs and candlesticks alike. The design is named after its resemblance to barley straws twisted together.
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Techniques: You can make barley twist candlesticks by hand using carving tools and woodturning techniques
To make barley twist candlesticks by hand, you'll need a lathe and some carving tools. The lathe is used to hold the wood in place while you work on it, and the carving tools are used to cut and shape the wood.
First, prepare a blank by turning a round blank from a square piece of wood. Ernie Conover, a renowned turner and teacher, uses an 8-inch-long square piece of mahogany to turn a 1.5-inch-diameter blank. You can also use walnut, oak, or basswood for your blank. Mark the blank with drive-centre marks on both ends so that you can secure it in the same exact position for carving.
Next, you'll need to lay out the twists. Ernie Conover uses the lathe's indexing pins to draw four lines, dividing the blank into four quadrants. He then draws two circumferential lines 1 inch from each end and uses dividers to mark out 3/4-inch divisions between those two lines. This creates a grid of intersecting lines that define the spiral twists. You can then use a piece of painter's tape to define the first twist, marking it with a pencil, and then repeat for the second twist, 180 degrees from the first.
Now you're ready to start cutting and shaping the twists. Ernie Conover uses a #9/7 millimeter gouge to make his cuts, cutting downhill with the grain. As the two cuts are blended, you'll need to use a backsaw to guide the cuts. Be careful, as the piece becomes more fragile at this stage. Once you've cut through to the centre, use an in-cannel gouge to shape the twists.
Finally, you can use a strip of sandpaper to smooth the round cross-sections and a round file for the base of each spiral. For the candle holder, start with a block that's about 2 1/4 inches square and 2 3/4 inches long. Drill an 11/32-inch hole in one end and slightly taper it with a scraper to hold a standard candle.
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Frequently asked questions
Barley twist candle sticks are candle holders that feature a thin, spiralling form. They date back to the 1600s and are often made from wood, such as mahogany or oak, but can also be made from brass.
You can identify the age of barley twist candle sticks by examining their style and material. Antique candle sticks are typically made from wood or brass and feature more intricate spiralling forms. You can also research the maker, as certain designers are associated with specific time periods, such as Victorian designers A.E. Jones, Deykin & Harrison, and John Rose.
You can make barley twist candle sticks by turning a round blank and then using carving tools to create the spiralling form. Woodturner and teacher Ernie Conover offers a tutorial on this process, recommending mahogany as a good choice of wood for beginners.
