Small Candles: What Are They Called And Why?

what are small candles called

Candles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and are often categorized by their unique characteristics. Small candles, in particular, are commonly referred to as tea lights or votives. These candle types are distinguished by their size, burn time, and intended use, adding accent lighting and ambiance to various settings.

Characteristics Values
Small candles Votive candles, Tealight candles, tiny taper candles
Description Small, cylindrical light sources
Burn time Votives: 15 hours; Tealights: 4 hours
Size Votives: 2-3 inches tall, 1.5-1.7 inches in diameter; Tealights: 0.5 inches tall, 1.5 inches in diameter
Container Votives: Glass; Tealights: Metal
Use Votives: Used in votive holders; Tealights: Self-contained, disposable

cycandle

Tealights/tea candles

Tealights, also known as tea candles, are small, flat candles that come in a metal or plastic cup to prevent wax from spilling as it liquefies. They are easy to transport and work well in restaurants and for catering events. They are often used to surround a reception area or add to dining tables to help set the mood at venues. Tealights are versatile and fit almost any occasion, making them a popular choice for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Tea candles are available in various forms, including traditional wax candles and flameless LED options. The flameless variety features realistic designs, providing attractive aesthetics while also being safer and more durable. They are also programmable, allowing for automatic on and off functions. Rechargeable tea lights are another flameless option that minimises costs by eliminating the need for replacement batteries. These candles are often available in warm white and amber-coloured flames.

Tea candles are commonly sold in bulk, with boxes containing 50, 100, or even 500 candles. They can be purchased as one-time buys or through subscription services for regular deliveries. Tea candles also come in different colours, such as white and ivory, and can be scented or unscented.

Tea candles are known for their versatility and ability to enhance any setting. They are often used in combination with other candles or decor to create customised centrepieces for dining tables or special occasions. Their small size and self-contained nature make them easy to incorporate into various arrangements, adding a warm glow to any atmosphere.

cycandle

Votives

Votive candles, or votives, are small, cylindrical candles that are often used to enhance the ambiance of elegant and homely settings. They are somewhat similar to tea lights, but votives are slightly larger and taller, and they last longer. Votives are often scented and come in a variety of fragrances. They are made from different types of waxes, including paraffin, soy wax, and beeswax.

Votive candles are commonly used in religious contexts, particularly in Christian churches. In Lutheran, Anglican, and Roman Catholic churches, votive candles are lit before statues or icons of saints, the Virgin Mary, or Jesus Christ. The lighting of a votive candle signifies the fulfillment of a vow (from the Latin "votum") and is often done to give honor, seek help, or pray for the dead. In Eastern Orthodox Churches, votive candles are long and thin and are placed in round containers with sockets or in sand. Nordic Lutheran churches also use long, thin votive candles.

Votive candles have also been appropriated for secular purposes, with celebrities like Kim Kardashian facing controversy for selling votive candles with their faces in the likeness of religious figures. However, not everyone finds these secular votive candles offensive, and some view them as a form of narcissism or a backhanded compliment to the Catholic Church.

Votive candles typically have shorter burn times than larger candles, and they require a votive holder to burn safely. Glass oil votives are also available, which burn more cleanly than traditional wax votives. Votives are a popular choice for creating a cozy atmosphere and are often used during candlelight vigils or spa days.

cycandle

Container candles

When creating container candles, it is important to choose the correct wick size for the container and wax type. Properly centring and trimming the wick to the recommended length will help achieve a consistent burn. Additionally, you can personalise your candles with custom labels to match your brand or event.

Candle Ounces: Labeling for Success

You may want to see also

cycandle

Taper candles

When purchasing taper candles, it is important to consider the diameter information to select an appropriate holder. Environmental factors, such as drafts or improper placement, can cause minimal dripping. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid burning taper candles in enclosed glass containers.

cycandle

Pillar candles

Wax pillar candles can vary in colour, design, and number of wicks. They are available in a variety of sizes, heights, widths, and edges, and may feature unique finishes and scents. Flameless pillar candles are a great option for creating ambient lighting in any location all year round, as they are not affected by the heat of summer or the chill of autumn. They also have the added benefit of safety, as there is no exposed flame.

Frequently asked questions

Small candles are called votives or tea lights (also known as tea candles). Votive candles are small cylindrical candles that are around 2 inches tall and 1.5 to 1.7 inches in diameter. Tea lights are smaller than votives and are typically 1.5 inches in diameter and 0.5 inches tall.

Votive candles are small candles that are designed to be burned in a votive holder, typically made of glass. They usually burn for around 15 hours and are perfect for creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.

Tea light candles are small, cylindrical candles that come in metal containers meant to be thrown away after the candle has burned out. They typically burn for around 4 hours and are perfect for creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

Written by
Reviewed by

Explore related products

Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment