Jessie Taylor
A candle follower, also known as a burner or wax saver, is a device used to increase the efficiency of a candle by minimising dripping and prolonging burn time. They are often found in churches on altar candles and are typically made of brass, although other materials such as Pyrex glass, bronze, and nickel are also used. The design, weight, and construction of the follower are critical to the proper burning of the candle, ensuring that it sits straight and does not interfere with the candle's flame. Candle followers are available in various sizes to fit different candle diameters, and their shiny finish adds to their aesthetic appeal. Beyond their practical purpose, candle followers have also been used as a symbol of faith, representing the eternal flame that guides us through the darkness, just as a candle follower controls the burn rate of a candle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Increase the efficiency of the wax by minimizing dripping and prolonging burn time |
| Design | Stylish and innovative |
| Material | Brass, Bronze, Nickel, Pyrex Glass |
| Finish | Satin or high polish |
| Diameter | 1 inch, 2 inch, 2 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch, 7/8 inch, 3 inch |
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What You'll Learn
A candle follower increases wax efficiency by minimising dripping
A candle follower, also known as a burner or wax saver, is a device designed to increase the efficiency of a candle by minimising dripping. It does this by controlling the burn rate of the candle, ensuring that the wax is used efficiently and prolonging the candle's burn time.
Candle followers are typically made of solid brass, although they can also be made of other materials such as Pyrex glass, bronze, or nickel. They are designed to fit snugly over the top of a candle, with the size of the follower determined by the diameter of the candle it will be used with. A well-fitting candle follower not only ensures maximum burning time but also minimises the potential for problems caused by dripping wax.
The design, weight, and construction of a candle follower are critical to the proper burning of a candle. For example, a follower that is too heavy or uneven can cause the candle to burn unevenly or drip. To prevent this, candle followers are carefully checked for weight, balance, and diameter before they are sold.
In addition to their practical benefits, candle followers have also been used as a symbol of faith in some religious traditions. In Christianity, for example, the candle represents the eternal flame of faith, and the candle follower is seen as a way to protect and prolong that flame. By preventing wax from dripping and accumulating, the candle follower helps to keep the candle's flame shining brightly, just as an individual might strive to keep their faith strong and unwavering.
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A candle follower prolongs the burn time of a candle
A candle follower, also known as a burner or wax saver, is a device used to increase the efficiency of a candle's burn. It does this primarily by minimising dripping, allowing the candle to burn for longer. Candle followers are typically made of solid brass, though they can also be made of Pyrex glass, bronze or nickel. They are designed to fit straight-sided candles of various diameters, and their design, weight and construction are critical to the proper burning of a candle.
A candle follower works by controlling the burn rate of a candle. By fitting snugly over the top of a candle, the follower prevents the wax from dripping, ensuring that it is used more efficiently and prolonging the burn time. This is especially important for candles made from beeswax, as the design, weight and construction of the follower can impact the burning process.
To ensure the candle burns properly, it is important to use a correctly sized follower. The diameter of the follower should match the diameter of the candle. For example, a 3-inch diameter candle will require a 3-inch diameter follower. Using a follower that is too small or too large can affect the burn rate and may cause the candle to drip.
Candle followers are also used symbolically in religious contexts, particularly in Christianity. The candle is seen as a symbol of faith, representing the eternal flame that guides people through the darkness of the world. The act of using a candle follower to control the burn rate is likened to allowing Christ to guide one's faith and shape them into vessels of His love and grace. This interpretation encourages patience and trust in God's guidance, as seen in Psalm 27:14: "Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!"
Overall, a candle follower is an essential tool for anyone looking to get the most out of their candles. By minimising dripping and improving the efficiency of wax usage, a candle follower can significantly prolong the burn time of a candle, providing worry-free hours of burning.
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A candle follower is also known as a wax saver
A candle follower, also known as a wax saver, is a device used to increase the efficiency of a candle by minimising wax dripping and prolonging burn time. They are typically made of solid brass, though they can also be made of Pyrex glass, bronze, or nickel. The design, weight, and construction of the follower are critical to the proper burning of a candle, particularly a beeswax candle. Candle followers are available in various sizes to fit different candle diameters, from the largest Paschal candle to the smallest Altar candle.
The use of a candle follower ensures maximum burning time and minimises potential problems. A correctly sized follower is determined by the diameter of the candle it will be used with. For example, a 3-inch diameter candle will require a 3-inch diameter follower. It is important to note that the surroundings of the candle can affect the follower. For instance, a draft or a fan blowing on the candle can cause the brass follower to move, leading to wax accumulation and interference with the candle's burn.
To maintain the performance and appearance of a candle follower, it is essential to remove any accumulated wax by immersing it in warm water and wiping it clean with a soft cloth. Abrasives should be avoided as they may affect the finish of the follower. By properly caring for a candle follower, users can ensure maximum efficiency in wax saving and burn time prolongation.
The concept of a candle follower has been used metaphorically in religious contexts, particularly in Christianity, where it is associated with faith and spiritual guidance. In this context, the candle represents the eternal flame of faith, and the follower symbolises the need to nurture and protect that faith from distractions and temptations that could dim its light.
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A candle follower is often used in churches on altar candles
A candle follower, also known as a burner or wax saver, is a device used to increase the efficiency of a candle by minimising dripping and prolonging burn time. They are often used in churches on altar candles, ensuring maximum burning time and reducing mess.
Candle followers are typically made of solid brass, though they can also be made of Pyrex glass, bronze or nickel. They are designed to fit straight-sided candles of various diameters, from 3/4 inch to 2 1/2 inches. The design, weight and construction of the follower are critical to the proper burning of the candle, ensuring the follower does not sit crookedly on top. Brass followers are often lacquered to maintain their shine, and they can be finished with satin or a high polish.
The candle follower is an important symbol in Christianity. In the Bible, candles represent the eternal flame of faith, as seen in Proverbs 20:27 (KJV): "The spirit of man is the candle of the Lord, searching all the inward parts of the belly." The candle follower's role in controlling the burn rate of a candle is likened to how Christians allow Christ to control their faith's burning. This is further reflected in the need to remove accumulated wax from a candle follower, which is compared to allowing Christ to remove sin and cleanse one's life.
The use of candle followers in churches on altar candles ensures not only the efficient burning of the candles but also provides a symbolic reminder of the importance of faith and its nurturing under Christ's guidance.
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A candle follower can be made from brass, bronze, nickel or Pyrex glass
A candle follower, or "burner", is a device placed on top of a candle to increase the efficiency of the wax by minimising dripping. Candle followers are essential to the proper burning of a candle, helping to prolong burn time and prevent dripping. Candle followers are typically used with straight-sided candles and are placed on the candle before burning and remain there until the candle is ready for disposal.
Candle followers can be made from brass, bronze, nickel, or Pyrex glass. Brass candle followers are often lathe-turned from brass stock and checked for weight, balance, and diameter to ensure they sit evenly on the candle. The brass may be lacquered to maintain its shine and is available in a satin or high-polish finish with a baked-on urethane finish for durability. Brass candle followers are also available in innovative and stylish designs.
Pyrex glass is another material suitable for candle followers, ensuring even burning on altar candles. Candle followers made from glass can be placed in the freezer for easy wax removal.
Candle followers made from bronze and nickel are less commonly mentioned, but these materials are also suitable for candle accessories.
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Frequently asked questions
A candle follower, also known as a burner or wax saver, is a device placed on top of a candle to prevent dripping and ensure even burning.
Candle followers are typically made of brass, glass, bronze, or nickel.
Candle followers are commonly used in churches, specifically on altar candles.
A candle follower should be placed on the shoulder of the candle and turned slightly. The wick should be straightened, and the candle should be pre-burned for at least two minutes.
