Types of Candles
| |
Candles have been around for thousands of years
and have remained relatively unchanged in their main design and function. They have been used for a
variety of functions and can be a great way to set various moods within your home.
Commonly made of wax, candles come with a wick
that is lit and provides light and heat, and are used mainly for this purpose.
Other materials used are paraffin, beeswax, soy
and tallow, and can also be made by a utilizing a mixture of paraffin and plastic.
|
Candles are made in various colors, sizes and shapes. They can be scented or
unscented and vary depending on what you want to use them for. Typical plain candles are used to provide light
in poor regions or areas that electricity cannot get to.
They are also used in an emergency where there is a power outage
and a flashlight is not available. More recently, they are used for their aesthetic appeal and even insect
repelling characteristics.
For home usage, many designs are available to suit the purpose.
For example; long tapered candles are used at dinner tables to provide a romantic ambience, and more rounded flat
candles, such as votive candles, can also set a mood in the bedroom. Floor candles and floor candle holders are also becoming more popular as
a type of decoration.
Candles can also be large enough to support themselves and do not
require a holder. Gel designs use mineral oil or gels made from hydrocarbons to create transparent fluid versions
that can be poured into containers of different shapes. Some candles are even designed to float on water and this
offers a great opportunity to add various materials in the water to create a visually appealing effect.
Candles can also be used to keep food warm. In the case of tea
light candles, small circular metal containers are filled with a fuel and placed under warming trays in order to
keep food warm at places such as dinner parties and buffets.
To create the right ambience in an outdoor environment, luminaria
candles can be used. These are containers filled with sand that holds a candle in place. Other specialty candles
take the shape of various objects and add a realistic feel to an occasion.

Most often, fragrances are added to fuels before the candle is made so that when the candle is
lit, a soothing aroma is given off.
Lavender, peppermint, menthol and citrus are just a few fragrances that can be added to candles
to add a little spice to the atmosphere. Citronella can also be added to candles, making then a great option to
repel insects such as mosquitos and flies.
Candle holders are also an essential part of candle use. They can
be made from a variety of materials including glass, metal, ceramic and wood. They can also be highly decorative,
adding more of a balance to the entire setting.
Although they are commonplace in every home, extreme care needs to
be maintained when handling candles. Candle wax when hot can cause burns and discomfort; also, candle holders
should be used wherever possible and kept away from any flammable objects.
Purchasing candles can be a fun way to add a little romance and
mood to any occasion. Shop around at your home decor store or website and enjoy the wide range that is
available.
|