Archive for the ‘Accessories’ Category:
Significance and Elegance of Candles
0 Comments | This entry was posted on Aug 12 2008
Ophelia Samith asked:
Candles are very significant in the view of aesthetic sensibility, thematic sentimentalism, romanticism, and mysticism as candles are used for the expression of all such emotions. Candles are used for the symbolism of various kinds of passions, cultural trends and celebrations. Candles are the very source of decoration and beautification of the environmental scenery. You would ultimately inspired by the elegance and gorgeousness of the candles when these are lit up at the ceremony of social or religious sector. These candles are presented as the emblem of love, religious fervor, romantic thoughts, mystic imagination and meditation.
Everyone inspires and admires the elegance and dim luminosity of flickering flame of candle with sweet fragrance which is given out in the atmosphere on burning. There are a number of elegant styles and models of candles in the market with charming aromas that you would be surprised to see diversity of candles in the marketplace. Candles play a vital role by creating most inspirational as well as exceptional surrounding with its charming. The wide range of variety of candles styles, pattern and functions are present in the market in accordance with the specific tastes and trends of candle lovers who want to light up candles in order to satisfy their own spirits.
Candles are not only reflection of western culture but also eastern culture which is used to celebrate various kinds of social as well religious festivals. The manufacturing ingredients of candles are cotton wick, wax, varied kinds of colorants and aromatic substances. Mostly the categories of candles are used according to different occasions e.g. birthday candles, novelty candles, soy candles, window candles, ear candles, scented candles, and many other candles. There are different methods used to manufacture candles with latest technology, maintaining the excellence and elegance of the candle manufacturing companies’ e.g. battery operated candles, candle warmer, electric powered candles, ear candles, gel candles, container candles, Yankee candles and tapers.
Candles not only symbolize the aesthetic sense, religious dedication and social ceremonial items but also help to evoke the intellectual as well as spiritual thoughts of man with its sweet light and fragrances. It is a source of serenity, tranquility and creativity of imaginative power that mostly poets are inspired by the elegant atmosphere of candle burning and spurred their poetic thoughts fluently. As candles are source of inspiration and stimulation that’s why the poets also entitle their poetic stuff in such manner i.e. “light my candle”, “little less sixteen candles”, “sixteen candles” etc. candles not only meditative but also imaginative means of creativity to stir the minds of the poets to step forward quickly in such delicate surrounding of candle lighting.
Candles are very significant in the view of aesthetic sensibility, thematic sentimentalism, romanticism, and mysticism as candles are used for the expression of all such emotions. Candles are used for the symbolism of various kinds of passions, cultural trends and celebrations. Candles are the very source of decoration and beautification of the environmental scenery. You would ultimately inspired by the elegance and gorgeousness of the candles when these are lit up at the ceremony of social or religious sector. These candles are presented as the emblem of love, religious fervor, romantic thoughts, mystic imagination and meditation.
Everyone inspires and admires the elegance and dim luminosity of flickering flame of candle with sweet fragrance which is given out in the atmosphere on burning. There are a number of elegant styles and models of candles in the market with charming aromas that you would be surprised to see diversity of candles in the marketplace. Candles play a vital role by creating most inspirational as well as exceptional surrounding with its charming. The wide range of variety of candles styles, pattern and functions are present in the market in accordance with the specific tastes and trends of candle lovers who want to light up candles in order to satisfy their own spirits.
Candles are not only reflection of western culture but also eastern culture which is used to celebrate various kinds of social as well religious festivals. The manufacturing ingredients of candles are cotton wick, wax, varied kinds of colorants and aromatic substances. Mostly the categories of candles are used according to different occasions e.g. birthday candles, novelty candles, soy candles, window candles, ear candles, scented candles, and many other candles. There are different methods used to manufacture candles with latest technology, maintaining the excellence and elegance of the candle manufacturing companies’ e.g. battery operated candles, candle warmer, electric powered candles, ear candles, gel candles, container candles, Yankee candles and tapers.
Candles not only symbolize the aesthetic sense, religious dedication and social ceremonial items but also help to evoke the intellectual as well as spiritual thoughts of man with its sweet light and fragrances. It is a source of serenity, tranquility and creativity of imaginative power that mostly poets are inspired by the elegant atmosphere of candle burning and spurred their poetic thoughts fluently. As candles are source of inspiration and stimulation that’s why the poets also entitle their poetic stuff in such manner i.e. “light my candle”, “little less sixteen candles”, “sixteen candles” etc. candles not only meditative but also imaginative means of creativity to stir the minds of the poets to step forward quickly in such delicate surrounding of candle lighting.
Making Soy Candles the Easy Way!
0 Comments | This entry was posted on Jul 20 2008
Jennifer Hall asked:
People choose soy candles for many good reasons. When looking at making candles you will find that soy candles are earth friendly and a renewable resource. What better reasons than these to make this type of candles? All candles produce some soot but soy candles tend to produce less than most. Soy candles are also known to last longer than most conventional candles. Soy candle wax is produced in the United States.
Equipment and Supplies for Making Soy Candles
The type of equipment and supplies you will need to make your soy candles depend on what style you want. You can make pillar type candles, tarts for burners, or container candles.
Container candles are the easiest to make and is the one that will be covered here. The nice thing about using soy wax is that it cleans up well with soap and water.
What You Will Need
You will need a microwave safe container, preferably a microwave safe glass measuring cup to hold and melt your wax, wicks, and a clean container to put your candle in. There are fragrances and dyes specifically for soy wax candles. If you desire these, then make sure you have them ready when creating your candle. A word of caution here, be sure to buy high quality oils that are strong and are specifically for soy candles!
You will also need a wooden spoon, potholders and a clean dry container to put your candle into. Soy wax comes in soft block or in flakes. The best way to purchase this type of wax is in flakes, this allows you to measure the amount of wax needed for different projects.
You are Ready to Create
Now you are ready to go. You have everything together, but how do you know how much wax you will need to melt? By using the microwave safe measuring cup, and by knowing the amount of liquid your container holds you will know the amount of soy wax that you need to melt. If it is a 14 oz. container then you will need approximately 13 oz of melted wax.
Melt the wax in the microwave. Start with a few minutes and continue to check until all the soy wax is melted. During the melting process, if you see you are going to need more wax, then add it to what is already melting. Be sure that all the wax is melted.
While the wax is melting take the wick and place the metal portion into the bottom of your container with just a bit of hot glue. This will adhere quickly so you can use a pencil to keep the wick centered by wrapping a small portion of the wick around the pencil. Secure the pencil to the container.
Once the right amount of wax is melted add the dye and stir to mix well. You may then add your fragrance according to the manufactures suggestions. Once all is mixed pour slowly into your container. Be sure that the wick stays to the center for an even burning candle.
You have just created your first earth friendly and beautiful soy candle. You are ready to make some as gifts so that others may enjoy these wonderful candles. Don’t forget to add a little note about clean up for the container after the candle has been used, and about how soy candles are earth friendly!
People choose soy candles for many good reasons. When looking at making candles you will find that soy candles are earth friendly and a renewable resource. What better reasons than these to make this type of candles? All candles produce some soot but soy candles tend to produce less than most. Soy candles are also known to last longer than most conventional candles. Soy candle wax is produced in the United States.
Equipment and Supplies for Making Soy Candles
The type of equipment and supplies you will need to make your soy candles depend on what style you want. You can make pillar type candles, tarts for burners, or container candles.
Container candles are the easiest to make and is the one that will be covered here. The nice thing about using soy wax is that it cleans up well with soap and water.
What You Will Need
You will need a microwave safe container, preferably a microwave safe glass measuring cup to hold and melt your wax, wicks, and a clean container to put your candle in. There are fragrances and dyes specifically for soy wax candles. If you desire these, then make sure you have them ready when creating your candle. A word of caution here, be sure to buy high quality oils that are strong and are specifically for soy candles!
You will also need a wooden spoon, potholders and a clean dry container to put your candle into. Soy wax comes in soft block or in flakes. The best way to purchase this type of wax is in flakes, this allows you to measure the amount of wax needed for different projects.
You are Ready to Create
Now you are ready to go. You have everything together, but how do you know how much wax you will need to melt? By using the microwave safe measuring cup, and by knowing the amount of liquid your container holds you will know the amount of soy wax that you need to melt. If it is a 14 oz. container then you will need approximately 13 oz of melted wax.
Melt the wax in the microwave. Start with a few minutes and continue to check until all the soy wax is melted. During the melting process, if you see you are going to need more wax, then add it to what is already melting. Be sure that all the wax is melted.
While the wax is melting take the wick and place the metal portion into the bottom of your container with just a bit of hot glue. This will adhere quickly so you can use a pencil to keep the wick centered by wrapping a small portion of the wick around the pencil. Secure the pencil to the container.
Once the right amount of wax is melted add the dye and stir to mix well. You may then add your fragrance according to the manufactures suggestions. Once all is mixed pour slowly into your container. Be sure that the wick stays to the center for an even burning candle.
You have just created your first earth friendly and beautiful soy candle. You are ready to make some as gifts so that others may enjoy these wonderful candles. Don’t forget to add a little note about clean up for the container after the candle has been used, and about how soy candles are earth friendly!
Candle Making: How to Make Home Made Candles for Your Home Decor or for a Gift!
0 Comments | This entry was posted on Jun 17 2008
Pj Hall asked:
Candles bring an air of elegance and softness to any room in which they are used. They serve many purposes from simple illumination to creating a centerpiece for a table. Candles have been around for centuries. No one knows just how long they have been around. Egyptians were some of the first to use beeswax candles dating back to 3000 B.C. There are artifacts that show that the first candles with wicks were created during the Roman period in history. Our love for candles and the art of candle making is always developing. This is apparent in the styles of the candles that we use.
So, you want to make candles?
There are many types of candles to choose from when you consider candle making. The key is to choose one type of candle to make and get that one down pat before starting another. Start slow and build your craft. This will give you a feel for working with wax and the equipment necessary for making candles. With so many methods and types of candles that you can make it can get very confusing and frustrating.
Start by working with the basic poured candle. For this type of candle you will need the following; a dedicated pot that will be used only for melting your wax, a candy thermometer so that you can check the wax temperature, a wooden spoon or two to work with, wax, dye, and wick supplies which you can buy at your local craft store. You may also want to purchase additives such as vybar or steric acid because these can increase the burn time of your candle. Paraffin is the most commonly used wax for candle making today and the best for a beginner to start with.
Find containers that are functional, decorative, and safe. Some of the best places to find containers are from thrift stores, yard sales, and your own kitchen. Examples of containers are things such as old teacups, funny coffee mugs, good heavy glasses, and of course the Mason jar.
You have what you need, now what?
After gathering all the supplies and equipment in one place you are ready to get started. A word of caution here is to be sure that all your equipment is clean and dry. Test your container prior to pouring hot wax into it to be sure that it will not break and can be used safely. Place a small drop of hot glue on the metal bottom of the wick then place it into the center of the container making sure to press down well. The wick can be kept in the center by wrapping a small portion of the wick around a pencil that lies on top of the container. Make sure to secure the pencil before pouring the wax.
Safety is important when working with heat and wax so keep a fire extinguisher handy. And never throw water on a fire caused by wax!
Use a large pan that is approximately 1/3 full of water and bring the temperature of the water to 212° Fahrenheit. Place your pot with wax into the water. Keep the water at the same temperature while melting the wax. Do not let the water boil away; add water as needed. Use the thermometer to test the temperature of the wax. Follow the manufacturer’s suggested temperature for melting wax because it varies with different waxes. Typically the best temperature for container wax is 170 - 175 degrees. Never let the wax exceed 250 degrees!
Once the wax has melted add the vybar or steric acid to the wax and mix well. The final step before pouring is adding color to your melted wax making sure to mix well. You are now ready to pour your melted candle wax into your container. Fill the container leaving approximately ¼ of headroom for the wick. Once the candle wax has set you may then remove the pencil. Trim the wick ¼ inch from the wax.
You have done it! You’ve made your first decorative candle and are now hooked. You have so much to explore and lots of ideas. As with all projects, have fun and be safe!
Candles bring an air of elegance and softness to any room in which they are used. They serve many purposes from simple illumination to creating a centerpiece for a table. Candles have been around for centuries. No one knows just how long they have been around. Egyptians were some of the first to use beeswax candles dating back to 3000 B.C. There are artifacts that show that the first candles with wicks were created during the Roman period in history. Our love for candles and the art of candle making is always developing. This is apparent in the styles of the candles that we use.
So, you want to make candles?
There are many types of candles to choose from when you consider candle making. The key is to choose one type of candle to make and get that one down pat before starting another. Start slow and build your craft. This will give you a feel for working with wax and the equipment necessary for making candles. With so many methods and types of candles that you can make it can get very confusing and frustrating.
Start by working with the basic poured candle. For this type of candle you will need the following; a dedicated pot that will be used only for melting your wax, a candy thermometer so that you can check the wax temperature, a wooden spoon or two to work with, wax, dye, and wick supplies which you can buy at your local craft store. You may also want to purchase additives such as vybar or steric acid because these can increase the burn time of your candle. Paraffin is the most commonly used wax for candle making today and the best for a beginner to start with.
Find containers that are functional, decorative, and safe. Some of the best places to find containers are from thrift stores, yard sales, and your own kitchen. Examples of containers are things such as old teacups, funny coffee mugs, good heavy glasses, and of course the Mason jar.
You have what you need, now what?
After gathering all the supplies and equipment in one place you are ready to get started. A word of caution here is to be sure that all your equipment is clean and dry. Test your container prior to pouring hot wax into it to be sure that it will not break and can be used safely. Place a small drop of hot glue on the metal bottom of the wick then place it into the center of the container making sure to press down well. The wick can be kept in the center by wrapping a small portion of the wick around a pencil that lies on top of the container. Make sure to secure the pencil before pouring the wax.
Safety is important when working with heat and wax so keep a fire extinguisher handy. And never throw water on a fire caused by wax!
Use a large pan that is approximately 1/3 full of water and bring the temperature of the water to 212° Fahrenheit. Place your pot with wax into the water. Keep the water at the same temperature while melting the wax. Do not let the water boil away; add water as needed. Use the thermometer to test the temperature of the wax. Follow the manufacturer’s suggested temperature for melting wax because it varies with different waxes. Typically the best temperature for container wax is 170 - 175 degrees. Never let the wax exceed 250 degrees!
Once the wax has melted add the vybar or steric acid to the wax and mix well. The final step before pouring is adding color to your melted wax making sure to mix well. You are now ready to pour your melted candle wax into your container. Fill the container leaving approximately ¼ of headroom for the wick. Once the candle wax has set you may then remove the pencil. Trim the wick ¼ inch from the wax.
You have done it! You’ve made your first decorative candle and are now hooked. You have so much to explore and lots of ideas. As with all projects, have fun and be safe!
Candle Holders: a Wide Palette to Choose From for Your Home Decor
0 Comments | This entry was posted on Jun 03 2008
Pj Hall asked:
Candle holders come in many different styles, textures, and colors. From the ordinary to the extraordinary, holders come in all shapes and sizes. Materials used depend on the reason that the candle is being used or how it is displayed. There are many markets that sell candle holders and that have someone available who can help you choose what is right for you.
Types of Candle Holders
We are most familiar with the candle holders that we see in the home such as those used on the dining table for special occasions. These can be the one-piece glass holder that holds a single tapered candle to a large three-wick candle that is used with flowers or fruit to decorate and set the mood for dinner.
Metal candle holders are great for outdoor use or to create a rustic feeling in your décor. The types of metal holders that come to mind most often are those seen in front of a fireplace or used as wall sconces.
You can also find many beautiful unique candle holders if you look around enough, like some extraordinary wooden candle holders that are on the market today. One example is driftwood that is treated and used to pour candle wax into to make a beautiful centerpiece. Most of us have seen the holders that have been made from old mason jars. These are great to help give that country feel to your home. One favorite is to use decorative teacups as holders to give a Victorian feel to any room.
How to Choose the Right Candle Holder
Where you want to place your candles and the type of setting you want to create both play an important role in the type of container that you choose. For a garden party you may want to buy little metal buckets to use as candleholder. They are easily made and decorated. This type of candleholder makes a wonderful gift that you can send home with your guest to remember the occasion.
If you are making the candles for a wedding then you may want to make a unity candle as a special gift for the couple. For this type of candle you can use a large cylindrical glass container that will shimmer and stand out. Because of the size of these containers you can decorate around them without fear of catching something on fire.
If you are choosing candles for the bathroom be sure that they are in appropriate containers to prevent fires. A crystal candle holder is one of the greatest ways that you can present candles that you have created. It gives the impression of multifaceted lights are being thrown out from the holder.
Safety First, Please
Safety is an important factor when selecting the holders that you wish to display and use. Be sure that the materials used are safe and will not break or change when becoming heated. Keep any flammable material away form the holder if the outside does get warm. Many home fires occur in the United States and elsewhere from the misuse of candles. Be sure that you think safety first when deciding on the type that you want to use.
The type of candle holder that you choose to use for displaying or holding your candle in can make a difference in how others see your setting. Don’t be afraid to explore the wide variety on the market from the usual to the extraordinary. Always keep in mind safety. For the candlemaker, the candle holder only adds to the beauty of your creation, so enjoy!
Candle holders come in many different styles, textures, and colors. From the ordinary to the extraordinary, holders come in all shapes and sizes. Materials used depend on the reason that the candle is being used or how it is displayed. There are many markets that sell candle holders and that have someone available who can help you choose what is right for you.
Types of Candle Holders
We are most familiar with the candle holders that we see in the home such as those used on the dining table for special occasions. These can be the one-piece glass holder that holds a single tapered candle to a large three-wick candle that is used with flowers or fruit to decorate and set the mood for dinner.
Metal candle holders are great for outdoor use or to create a rustic feeling in your décor. The types of metal holders that come to mind most often are those seen in front of a fireplace or used as wall sconces.
You can also find many beautiful unique candle holders if you look around enough, like some extraordinary wooden candle holders that are on the market today. One example is driftwood that is treated and used to pour candle wax into to make a beautiful centerpiece. Most of us have seen the holders that have been made from old mason jars. These are great to help give that country feel to your home. One favorite is to use decorative teacups as holders to give a Victorian feel to any room.
How to Choose the Right Candle Holder
Where you want to place your candles and the type of setting you want to create both play an important role in the type of container that you choose. For a garden party you may want to buy little metal buckets to use as candleholder. They are easily made and decorated. This type of candleholder makes a wonderful gift that you can send home with your guest to remember the occasion.
If you are making the candles for a wedding then you may want to make a unity candle as a special gift for the couple. For this type of candle you can use a large cylindrical glass container that will shimmer and stand out. Because of the size of these containers you can decorate around them without fear of catching something on fire.
If you are choosing candles for the bathroom be sure that they are in appropriate containers to prevent fires. A crystal candle holder is one of the greatest ways that you can present candles that you have created. It gives the impression of multifaceted lights are being thrown out from the holder.
Safety First, Please
Safety is an important factor when selecting the holders that you wish to display and use. Be sure that the materials used are safe and will not break or change when becoming heated. Keep any flammable material away form the holder if the outside does get warm. Many home fires occur in the United States and elsewhere from the misuse of candles. Be sure that you think safety first when deciding on the type that you want to use.
The type of candle holder that you choose to use for displaying or holding your candle in can make a difference in how others see your setting. Don’t be afraid to explore the wide variety on the market from the usual to the extraordinary. Always keep in mind safety. For the candlemaker, the candle holder only adds to the beauty of your creation, so enjoy!