How Do You Display Tapered Candles?

ByHarper Robinson

Tapered candles are tall, slender candles that gradually taper from thick at the base to thin at the tip. They are one of the oldest forms of candle and have been used for centuries to provide both light and decoration (Storables). Tapered candles come in a wide variety of sizes, colors, and materials, making them a versatile decorative accent for the home. When grouped together and artfully displayed, tapered candles can create an elegant focal point, enhance ambiance, and provide mood lighting.

Tapered candles are a classic, timeless decorative element suitable for both casual everyday use and formal occasions. Their slim, elongated shape allows them to fit into candelabras, hurricane vases, candlesticks, and a variety of other attractive holders. With proper placement and creative arrangements, tapered candles can elevate any space.

Choosing Location

Tapered candles can be placed in a variety of locations around the home to create an elegant accent. Some popular placement ideas include:

Mantels: The ledge above a fireplace makes an excellent spot to arrange tapered candles. Place them in the middle or on each end for symmetrical beauty. Vary heights for visual interest. According to Colonial Candle, taper candles bring warmth and sophistication to mantel displays.

Tables: Cluster tapered candles of mixed heights on coffee tables, end tables, dining tables or console tables. Arrange them artfully with books, flowers or other decor. As Domino recommends, placing tapered candles on a low coffee table adds necessary height.

Shelves: Display tapered candles on built-in shelves, bookcases, floating shelves or stair steppers. Arrange by color, height or coordinating holders. Add greenery, photographs or other personal knickknacks around the candles.

Countertops: Kitchen counters and bathroom vanities provide flat surfaces ideal for positioning tapered candles. Place them near the sink or stove to emit a welcoming glow.

Windowsills: Line up tapered candles along a windowsill to add warmth and atmosphere. Alternate with potted plants or display on their own.

Groupings and Arrangements

Displaying tapered candles in thoughtful groupings and arrangements can create an elegant and visually appealing look. Here are some tips for displaying solitary tapers versus groups:

For a simple, minimalist style, place single taper candles of varying heights in candleholders on side tables, mantels, and shelves. Let each candle stand alone as an accent piece, using different heights to add visual interest. Sources:

For more of an impact, group 3-5 taper candles together in candleholders of the same height. Experiment with mixing colors in complementary hues for a bolder statement. Place the groupings down the center of a dining table or clustered on a sideboard.

To add height and drama, nestle taper candles of descending height together in attractive candlesticks or holders. Try placing them atop a mantel or shelf for a striking display. Sources:

Complementary Decor

With their elegant, slender form, taper candles pair beautifully with many types of home decor. Vases, candlesticks, floral arrangements, and decorative bowls are all accent pieces that complement the clean lines of taper candles. Here are some ideas for complementary items to display with these candles:

  • Fresh flowers or foliage are a lovely match for taper candles. A bouquet of roses or lilies looks stunning next to tall taper holders. You can also place small vases with a single stem or two alongside taper candles on a table or shelf.
  • Candlesticks, candelabras, and sconces with a classic style provide an eye-catching background for taper candles. Choose metallic finishes like brass, silver, or gold for a touch of glamour. Wrought iron, crystal, or glass candle holders also pair nicely.

    • displaying tapered candles in candleholders creates an elegant look

  • Bowls, trays, and cake stands created from metal, ceramic, glass, or wood make beautiful surfaces to hold a grouping of taper candles in various heights. Opt for neutral, muted colors so the candles stand out.
  • Consider the shapes that best complement the tall, vertical form of tapers. Round or square items create an appealing contrast. For example, place taper candles in the center of a round table next to short, squat vases.

When selecting accent pieces, think about color palette, texture, size, and visual weight. Choose items that harmonize with your taper candles for a cohesive, well-designed display in any space.

Color and Size

When displaying taper candles, carefully coordinating colors and sizes can create a cohesive and visually appealing look. Mixing and matching both cool and warm candle colors in varying heights adds depth and interest. For example, arrange short ivory tapers with tall burgundy ones on a candleholder tray to contrast light and dark hues. Or place petite votives in lemon and azure next to bold pillar candles in emerald and gold for a vibrant palette. According to Creative Candles, colors can evoke different moods – red for passion, blue for tranquility, and yellow for cheerfulness. So consider the ambiance you want to achieve. Just be sure to avoid jarring color clashes by coordinating complementary shades. In terms of size, use a variety of taper lengths on one holder to add dimension. Or uniformly size candles can make a bolder display when grouped together. Mixing slim and wide pillar candles also creates visual interest through varied shapes and silhouettes.

Candleholders

Candleholders are an essential element for beautifully displaying taper candles. There are many options available for candlesticks and holders depending on the look you want to achieve.

For a minimalist look, try using plain iron or glass tapered candle holders in simple forms. These let the candles be the focal point. Arrange the holders in matching heights for consistency or mix heights for visual interest.

For more ornate styles, look for holders with decorative bases, patterns, or materials like crystal, wood, or metal. Using gold, silver, or brass colored holders creates a glamorous feel. Or pick holders with interesting shapes like fluted pillars or curved silhouettes.

To highlight the tapered shape, select holders that are sized close to the candle’s width. Opt for a classic look with holders just slightly wider than the tapers. Or create drama with more exaggerated narrow bases and wide rims that accentuate the taper.

Consider mixing and matching holder styles, materials, sizes and heights for an eclectic display. Just be sure the overall look complements your decor.

Lighting

When and how to light taper candles can have a big impact on the ambiance they create. Lighting all the candles at once can create a warm, inviting glow right away. However, lighting the candles gradually over time can allow the lighting to evolve throughout an evening or event. Some tips for lighting:

  • Light candles about an hour before guests arrive so they have time to stabilize.
  • Start by lighting just a couple candles in key areas, then light more over time as needed.
  • For intimate dinners, light just a few candles at a time to create a cozy ambiance.
  • For parties, light more candles at once to brightly illuminate the space.
  • Turn off bright overhead lights and use candlelight as the main light source for dramatic effect.
  • Mix candle heights and sizes for visual interest.
  • Don’t forget to blow out tapers before they burn down completely.

Strategic lighting can turn a simple display of taper candles into a warm and welcoming focal point. Let the candles create a relaxing or festive mood for any occasion.

Safety

When burning any type of candle, safety should be a top priority. Here are some fire safety tips for displaying and using taper candles:

Place taper candles in sturdy, tip-resistant holders to reduce the risk of tipping and fire. Choose holders made of nonflammable materials like metal, glass, or ceramic (source).

Keep burning taper candles away from flammable objects like curtains, paper, and decorations. Allow 12-18 inches of clearance on all sides (source).

Don’t leave burning candles unattended. Always blow them out before leaving a room or going to sleep.

Trim wicks to 1⁄4 inch before lighting to prevent smoking and uneven burning.

Consider using battery-operated taper candles for worry-free use. These realistically flicker like wax candles without the fire risk.

Keep a snuffer tool and fire extinguisher on hand in case of emergencies. Know how to properly extinguish a candle fire.

Inspect taper candles before each use and discard any with excessive drips, soot, or other signs of damage.

Maintenance

Keeping taper candles clean and dust-free will help extend their life and maintain their appearance. Dust can build up on candle surfaces and clog the wicks, preventing them from burning properly. Use a soft cloth or duster to gently wipe down taper candles periodically.

Be very careful not to knock over or apply excess pressure when dusting taper candles, as they can be fragile. Avoid using chemical cleaners or liquids which could damage the wax. Simply dusting with a dry cloth is best for routine upkeep.

Store taper candles in an enclosed space when not in use to prevent dust buildup. Make sure they are not in direct sunlight or heat which could cause distortion. According to Colonial Candle, keeping candles stored properly can “avoid color fading, melting or cracking.”

With proper care and dusting, taper candles can retain their appearance and burn performance for extended periods. Taking a little time for basic maintenance will help display tapers look their best.

Inspiring Display Ideas

Get creative with how you arrange and display your tapered candles! Here are some stunning ideas to spark your inspiration:

Geometric designs: Try grouping candles in geometric shapes like triangles, diamonds, or circles on a table or shelf. This creates visual interest and shows off the tapered shape.

Alternating heights: Display tapered candles of varying heights together for drama. The graduating sizes make for an eye-catching look.

On candlesticks: For beautiful wedding or formal table decor, display tapered candles in silver or crystal candle holders of different heights down the center of the table.

With flowers: Nestle tapered candles amongst fresh flower arrangements. The soft flickering light beautifully complements the colors and textures of the blooms.

On the stairs: Line a staircase with an assortment of tapered candles in glass votives for a welcoming glow. Scatter rose petals alongside for added romance.

Let your creativity shine! Tapered candles offer so many possibilities for stunning and unique displays.

Similar Posts