Welsh Blankets
Pillar Candles - A Guide
Pillar Candles
Introduction
Pillar candles are a popular choice among candle enthusiasts for their versatility, timeless elegance, and long burn times. These candles are characterised by their cylindrical shape and are typically wider and taller than other candle types. Pillar candles have been used for centuries in various settings, including religious ceremonies, home decor, and special occasions.
They can be either scented or unscented. Pillar candles are often used for decorative purposes, but they can also be used to provide light and fragrance.
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FelinFach, a Modern-Day Candle Chandler
A Candle Chandler? - "a handmade maker and seller of tallow, wax candles, and also usually soap".
We are a modern-day candle chandler, hand pouring soy wax candles, including pillar candles, using traditional methods and skills but also other fragrance items such as reed diffusers, tealights and wax melts. Our eco-friendly pillar candles are made from sustainable and renewable plant-based candle waxes and with cotton wicks.
Types of Pillar Candles
There are many diverse types of pillar candles available, each with their own characteristics. Some of the most common types of pillar candles include:- Solid pillar candles: These are the most common type of pillar candle. They are made of solid wax and have a smooth, even surface. Solid pillar candles are typically used for decorative purposes.
- Poured pillar candles: These candles are made by pouring melted wax into a mold. They can have a variety of different shapes and textures.
- Scented pillar candles: These candles are infused with essential oils or fragrances. They can add a pleasant aroma to your home.
- Votive pillar candles: These candles are small, votive-sized pillar candles. Votive pillar candles are typically used for decorative purposes or for providing light in small spaces.
- LED pillar candles: These candles do not use wax or flame. They are powered by batteries and emit a soft, flickering light. (We do not make or offer LED candles on this website).
Materials Used in Pillar Candles
- Wax: Pillar candles can be made from several types of wax, including paraffin wax, soy wax, beeswax, and palm wax. Paraffin wax is the most used wax due to its affordability and versatility. Soy wax is a popular alternative, known for its eco-friendly nature and clean burning properties. Beeswax is highly regarded for its natural fragrance and long burn times. Palm wax is another sustainable option that produces unique crystalline patterns when the candle burns. (We do not make paraffin wax candles on this website. All our candles are made with eco-friendly plant-based waxes such as soy, coconut or rapeseed waxes.)
- Wicks: The wick is an essential component of a pillar candle as it provides the fuel for the flame. Wicks are typically made from braided cotton, but they can also contain a small amount of paper or metal to enhance stability and performance. The size and thickness of the wick depend on the diameter and height of the candle, ensuring a steady and controlled burn. (We do any wicks containing metal on this website. All our pillar candles are made with eco-friendly cotton wicks.)
- Dyes and Fragrances: Pillar candles can be left unscented or infused with various fragrances to create a pleasant ambience. Dyes are used to add colour to the candles, allowing for a wide range of decorative options. Both dyes and fragrances are typically added during the candle-making process.
Pillar Candle Holders
Pillar candle holders are decorative objects designed specifically to hold pillar candles and are very much a matter for personal preference. These candle holders are typically wider and taller than holders for other types of candles, as they are intended to accommodate the larger size of pillar candles.
Pillar candles are cylindrical in shape and do not have a built-in base or holder like, for example, container candles. Therefore, pillar candle holders do provide stability and support for these candles while they burn.
Pillar candle holders come in a range of styles, materials, and designs to suit different preferences and home decor. Common materials used for pillar candle holders include metal, glass, ceramic, wood, and crystal. Some holders are simple and minimalistic, while others feature intricate details, patterns, or embellishments.
History of Pillar Candles
Pillar candles have a rich history that can be traced back to ancient times. The earliest use of candles dates to ancient Egypt, where they were made from beeswax and used for religious ceremonies. The Romans also used candles made from tallow, a rendered animal fat. Over time, candle-making techniques evolved, and various materials, such as beeswax, tallow, and paraffin, were used to create pillar candles. Today, pillar candles are commonly made from paraffin wax or soy wax, which provide a clean and even burn.
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Extensive Candle-Care Resources all in One Place
If you need the full low-down on our chandlery, candle and soapery products, we’ve got all the details and information you’ll need in our Knowledge Base. Browse through these articles and experience all your candle-care resources in one place, click here...
Pillar Candle Safety
It is always important to use Pillar Candles, indeed all candles, safely.
- Never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Place candles on a stable surface away from flammable objects.
- Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
- Extinguish candles before going to bed or leaving the house.
- Do not place pillar candles too close together.
More information on Candle Safety and Care, click here...
About FelinFach
Located in Pembrokeshire Wales, our ethos is defined in the three words...
NATURAL TRADITIONAL HANDMADE.
- Hand woven iconic Welsh blankets and Welsh tapestry blankets.
- Hand dyed yarn, dyed with natural dyes only - no exceptions!
- Handmade candles, candle accessories, Candle Making Workshops and soapery.
- Natural Dyeing Craft courses.
- Yarn shop, yarn bowls, project bags, tools and accessories for knitters and crafters.
- Welsh Gifts, souvenirs, made in Wales, handmade in Wales.
We are a proud supporter of Americymru, the Campaign for Wool, Global Welsh and Red Dragon America.
Last updated 3rd December 2023
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