The History Of Candle-Making Revealed

Article by Stacy D Price

The candle has a long and rich history that delves into many different periods of the past. It continues to be a common symbol in various religions all across the world, used for celebrations for centuries.

Up until the turn of the twentieth century, before the domestication of electricity, candles were the main source of light in households. Candle-making has become a popular hobby in the past decade, and many homegrown candle-making companies have been springing up across America. So where did this craft begin?

The first candle…

Is reported to have been made in Egyptian times and formed out of tallow. Tallow is a beef residue that is very unpleasant to smell when burnt! The Romans offered a more recognizable candle shape by using hemp or cotton for a wick.

Up until the 17th century, many different forms of wax were used. For example, in the 15th and 16th centuries, beeswax was used to make candles. However, this was an expensive commodity – too expensive for an everyday person to buy, so candles became limited to the aristocracy. Imagine a world where a candle was too expensive to purchase!

A candle made out of whales?

By the eighteenth century, spermaceti wax was being used for candle wax. This wasn’t a normal plant or bee derived wax; it was created out of whale oil! The whaling industry was thriving at the time, so candle-makers made the most of a fruitful resource. Unfortunately again, the wax did not smell too agreeable, but the biggest problem was that in the summer months the wax did not hold shape because the melting temperature was comparatively low.

The nineteenth century…

Was a definitive time for candle-making. The quality of candles improved due to a few important scientific discoveries. Paraffin wax was first used in London. Paraffin wax burned clean, effectively, and was mixed with stearic acid to create an easily preserved and cheaper candle. The first candle-making machines were also created, which made candles available to everybody again.

The future of candle-making

These days, the candle industry is thriving and candle-making kits can be purchased online and at your local craft store. Eco-friendly renewable resources like soybeans are now used to make wax alongside paraffin.

What other compelling ideas will candle-makers come up with in the future? We already have multi-poured candles that disperse triple scents. There are candles that aid physical and mental well being that are derived from essential aromatherapy oils, and even personalized candles that are engraved for a loved one. How will things develop in the candle world?

If you have a passion or interest in utilizing scented candles in your home or workplace, imagine how fulfilling it would be to try and make your own at home. Be a part of a rich and creative history. The process is a wonderful experience.

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