We all know a candle is a combination of wax and wick...but past that there are many different varieties of candles. Even if you take scent and color out of the mix, there is still an amazing array of different shapes, sizes, methods and purposes for candles. Here is a list of the major types of candles that most candle makers will encounter and/or make.
1. Container Candles
David Fisher
A container candle is just that...a candle that is set in a container. But it is different from a votive (that is put into a container) in that the mold and the container are the same thing. The candle is poured into the container.
Basic Container Candles
Layered Container Candles
Marbled Container Candles
2. Votive Candles
David Fisher
Votive candles are among the most used candles of any type. They're actually a hybrid between a pillar candle and a container candle in that, before they're burned, they're free-standing, usually cylindrical candles (just like a pillar,) but once they're lit, they generally melt completely enough to take the shape of the votive holder that they're placed in (like a container candle.)
Basic Votive Candles (using Dixie cups)
Basic Votive Candles (using votive molds)
Chunk Votive Candles
3. Pillar Candles
David Fisher
Pillar candles are a type of molded candle. The wax is rigid enough to burn free-standing (on a heat-resistant plate or pan.) If it is wicked correctly, it should burn evenly and not drip very much wax onto the plate.
Basic Pillar Candles
Layered Pillar Candles
Rustic Pillar Candles
4. Dipped Candles
David Fisher
Dipped candles are basically just that...dipped -- a piece of wick that has been primed (dipped) into the wax to get out the air bubbles...and then dipped some more to build up more layers of wax.
5. Rolled Candles
David Fisher
Rolled candles are made with pliable (roll-able) sheets of wax with a wick at the center. The most common are made with sheets of beeswax 8" x 16". They are great, safe, easy candles to make.
Rolled Beeswax Candle
Two Color Rolled Taper Candle
Rolled Candles Video
