Jessie Taylor
Candles are a great way to add a touch of elegance and warmth to any space. They come in various shapes and sizes, and one such variety is taper candles, which are tall, thin, and elegant. Taper candles have been used for millennia and are extremely versatile, perfect for everything from romantic dinners to holiday gatherings and even religious celebrations. With a wide range of sizes, colours, and scents available, taper candles can complement any decor and create a cosy ambiance. However, due to their tall and slim build, they require candle holders to keep them secure and prevent wax from dripping. In this article, we will explore the history, aesthetics, and proper usage of taper candles, providing insights into why they have become a popular choice for creating a magical atmosphere.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Taper candles |
| Description | Long, thin candles that taper from the bottom upwards |
| Size | Range widely in length, from 6 inches to over 20 inches; the most common length is 12 inches |
| Diameter | 7/8" or 1/2" to fit standard taper candle holders |
| Burn time | A 12-inch taper candle has a burn time of approximately 10 hours |
| Uses | Commonly used on dining tables, in restaurants or for special occasions like weddings and religious celebrations |
| Colours and scents | Available in a variety of colours and scents, including natural options such as beeswax |
| Holders | Require a holder to secure them in place; options include candelabras, ceramic moulds, and bespoke candlesticks |
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What You'll Learn
Taper candles are tall, thin, and versatile
Due to their tall and slim build, taper candles require a holder to secure them in place. Various types of candle holders can be used, such as candelabras, ceramic molds, or bespoke candlesticks. The use of a holder also helps to minimise dripping, which can be a safety hazard and cause stains on furniture. To further reduce dripping, it is important to choose high-quality taper candles made from dense, high-quality wax.
Taper candles are extremely versatile and can complement a range of aesthetics and occasions. They can be used to create a romantic and ambient atmosphere for a candlelit dinner or to add a touch of elegance and warmth to a wedding venue. Their soft, cozy glow makes them ideal for photoshoots, events, and special, intimate occasions.
The versatility of taper candles extends beyond their decorative uses. They can also be used to enhance the scent of a room, with various scented options available. Additionally, their tall and thin shape can make them ideal for spaces with low ceilings, where taller candles may not be suitable.
Overall, taper candles are a timeless and elegant choice for a variety of settings. With their slender silhouette and versatile nature, they can elevate any space and create the desired ambiance for any occasion. Whether it's a romantic dinner for two or a grand wedding celebration, taper candles are a stylish and functional choice.
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They are one of the oldest types of candles
Tapering candles, also known as taper candles, are one of the oldest types of candles, with a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The earliest candles were made by the Egyptians, who used papyrus rolled into coils and dipped in melted tallow, a hard fat from cattle or sheep. These early candles, including tapers, were luxury items, affordable only by the wealthy, with most people relying on oil lamps for light. However, the Romans refined candle-making, using beeswax for a cleaner burn, and this is where the taper candle began to take shape.
Taper candles were initially a symbol of wealth and status, often used in religious ceremonies and to light homes of the affluent. The name "taper" comes from the Old French word "tapere," meaning "to slender down or become thinner," which is a perfect description of the candle's distinctive shape. Over time, taper candles became more accessible to the general public, especially with the use of beeswax, which was easier to obtain and provided a better burning experience than tallow.
The Middle Ages saw the rise of candle-making guilds, which standardized the production of candles, including tapers. These guilds ensured a consistent quality and size, with tapers becoming the standard for formal settings and religious rituals. By the 18th and 19th centuries, taper candles were a common sight, with their elegant, slender form gracing tables and altars. They were also used in candelabras and wall sconces, adding a touch of sophistication to any space.
With the advent of electricity and the invention of the light bulb, candles became less of a necessity for illumination. However, taper candles have endured, remaining popular for their aesthetic appeal and the ambiance they create. Today, they are still handcrafted, with a focus on high-quality waxes, including beeswax and paraffin, ensuring a slow, clean burn and a soft, warm glow. The making of taper candles is an art, with artisans creating elegant, long-burning tapers that add a timeless touch to any setting.
The enduring popularity of taper candles lies in their versatility and the ambiance they create. They are often used in formal dining settings, adding a touch of elegance and romance to any meal. Their soft, flickering light creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making them perfect for special occasions and intimate gatherings. Additionally, taper candles are a staple in spiritual and religious practices, symbolizing purity, devotion, and remembrance.
Taper candles, with their slender, elegant form, are a timeless classic in the world of candle-making. Their rich history and enduring appeal make them a beloved choice for those seeking a touch of old-world charm and a warm, inviting ambiance.
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Taper candles require a holder to secure them
Taper candles are long, thin candles that are extremely versatile and can be used for a romantic candlelit dinner or for decorating for a holiday gathering. They are usually a standard size at the base and measure about 7/8” or ½” in diameter to fit standard taper candle holders, as they cannot stand on their own.
If the taper candle is too small for the holder, you can use candle adhesive, also known as candlestick or wax dots, to secure the candle. Simply place a small amount of the adhesive on the candle's base and press it firmly into the holder. You can also use a product called Stick-um, which is a very soft, tacky wax that works like glue but does not harden.
If the candle holder is too big, you can try wrapping a small piece of foil around the candle's base until it fits snugly into the holder. Alternatively, you can use a rubber band, wrapped around the base of the candle, to create some resistance when placing the candle in the holder and reduce wobbling.
Another option is to melt wax into the base of the candle holder and then place the candle into the candlestick while the wax is still soft. The wax will harden and secure the candle in place.
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They come in a variety of sizes, colours, and scents
Taper candles are tall, thin candles that come in a variety of sizes, colours, and scents. They are one of the oldest types of candles and have been used as a source of illumination for millennia. Today, they are commonly used for decorative purposes, such as wedding décor, dinner parties, and religious celebrations.
In terms of size, taper candles can range from as short as 6 inches to over 20 inches in length. The most common length is the classic 12-inch version, which has a burn time of approximately 10 hours. The diameter of the base is typically standard, measuring about 7/8" or 1/2", to fit into standard taper candle holders.
Taper candles come in a wide range of colours, from classic ivory to seasonal shades and natural options like beeswax. They can also be found in various scents, adding to their versatility and appeal.
The variety of sizes and colours allows for endless styling options. Taper candles can be mixed and matched or kept uniform, depending on the desired aesthetic. They can be placed in candle holders, candelabras, ceramic moulds, or any other creative way to secure them safely.
When choosing taper candles, it is important to consider the quality of the wax. High-quality, dense wax will result in less dripping and a cleaner burn. This is especially important for tall taper candles to prevent wax from spilling over the side due to gravity.
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Taper candles are a 1960s trend
Taper candles are tall, thin candles that are usually placed in special holders as they cannot stand on their own. They are versatile and stylish, and can be used to set the mood for a romantic candlelit dinner or to decorate for a holiday gathering. Taper candles are also commonly used in fancy restaurants or dinner parties.
Taper candles were a 1960s trend popularized by the mid-century design house Dansk, which sold stylish tiny taper candle holders. These candles are making a comeback, with vintage Dansk taper candles available on Etsy and eBay, and new candles designed to fit into vintage Dansk holders.
Taper candles come in a variety of colours and scents and can be made from different types of wax, such as beeswax or paraffin wax. Beeswax taper candles burn longer but are generally more expensive, while paraffin wax burns faster but is cheaper. Paraffin wax taper candles may also be preferred as they are known to burn more cleanly than beeswax candles, producing less smoke and leaving less soot.
When choosing taper candles, it is important to consider the height of the room and the placement of the candles. For example, in a room with a low ceiling, shorter taper candles may be more appropriate. It is also crucial to use high-quality, dense wax to minimize dripping and avoid messes and safety hazards.
Overall, taper candles can be a fun and surprising way to enhance the ambiance of a room, whether it be for a special occasion or everyday home décor.
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Frequently asked questions
Tall thin candles are called taper candles.
Taper candles are typically made of paraffin wax, though they can also be made of beeswax.
Taper candles can vary in length, ranging from 6 inches to over 20 inches. The most common length is the classic 12-inch version, which has a burn time of approximately 10 hours.
Taper candles are extremely versatile and can be used for various occasions, from romantic dinners to holiday gatherings and religious celebrations. They are also one of the safest types of candles when used properly.
Due to their tall and thin shape, taper candles can be unstable and may require a holder to secure them in place. Additionally, the wax drippings from paraffin wax taper candles could stain furniture, and paraffin may not burn as cleanly as oil.
