What Can I Use To Hold A Taper Candle?

Taper candles are long, thin candles with a conical or narrowing shape. Unlike pillar candles that are more cylindrical, taper candles are wider at one end and gradually become more narrow until they end in a point at the other end.

This unique tapered shape allows the candles to elegantly drip wax as they burn down, creating lovely lighting effects that many people find aesthetically pleasing. However, the tapered design also makes it more challenging to find a proper holder to keep the candles upright and secure.

Taper candles need to be held at an angle in order to burn properly, but their diminishing width makes them prone to tipping over if not positioned just right. Finding a good taper candle holder requires a receptacle that will firmly grip the candle’s tapering sides while also elevating the candle at the ideal angle.

Candlesticks

Candlesticks are one of the most traditional and decorative options for holding taper candles. They allow the candle to stand upright while also adding visual interest to your decor. Candlesticks come in a wide variety of styles, from simple and understated to ornate and elaborate.

Classic metal or wooden candlesticks often have a cylindrical base with a disc on top to hold the candle. These can range from just a few inches tall for votives and tealights, up to over a foot tall for taper candles. Decorative ceramic or glass candlesticks may incorporate various shapes, patterns, or figural designs. Crystal candlesticks can dazzle with their prismatic cuts.

When selecting candlesticks, consider the height of the candle you plan to use. Make sure the holder is tall enough to safely contain the candle flame. Also look for a sturdy, heavy base that will resist tipping. Candlesticks that are decorative but still functional make the perfect vessels for displaying taper candles.

Glass Holders

Glass holders make for a classy and elegant way to display taper candles. The transparent nature of glass allows the beautiful taper shape to be seen while also protecting surfaces from wax drips. Glass holders come in a variety of styles, from simple cylinders to ornate decorative pieces.

Clear glass holders tend to be the most versatile option, suitable for both formal and casual settings. They allow the candle color to shine through. Etched, frosted, or colored glass holders offer more decoration while still showcasing the taper’s form. Cut glass holders with intricate patterns sparkle in the candlelight for dramatic effect.

Glass holders are widely available at candle and home décor stores. Cylinder shapes are affordable and can be bought in sets. More ornamental glass holders are pricier but make lovely gifts. Those with flat, wide bases provide stability. Glass holders can be paired with metal frames or bases for added interest.

Glass is prone to breaking so it’s wise to place these holders on stable, protected surfaces. Never move or carry a lit taper candle inside a glass holder to avoid accidents. With reasonable care, glass makes for an attractive taper candle display that highlights classic candlelight allure.

Metal Holders

Metal candle holders are a sturdy and practical option for taper candles. They are often made from wrought iron, steel, aluminum, brass, or other metals that can stand up to the heat of a candle flame. Many metal candle holders have a base to catch dripping wax and some feature claws, prongs, or rings to grip the candle securely.

The strength of metal allows for durable construction that resists tipping over. Intricate metalwork designs can range from minimalist modern styles to highly detailed antique reproductions. Some metal candle holders are freestanding while others attach to walls or hang from ceilings.

Metal conducts heat well, so it’s important to ensure the holder is placed on a heat-safe surface. But their hardy build means metal holders don’t require as much care as more delicate materials. They can usually be cleaned by wiping with a damp cloth. For an elegant yet sturdy choice, metal makes an ideal material for holding taper candles.

Wooden Holders

Wooden holders offer a rustic, natural look that can complement many home decor styles. Wood candle holders work well both indoors and outdoors. The natural materials make them ideal for creating an earthy aesthetic on porches, patios, and decks.

Wood holders come in many shapes and sizes. Small wooden cups make great tea light holders. Larger carved wood candlesticks create an elegant focal point on tables and mantels. You can also find woven wood holders and tree branch holders for a boho-chic style.

Wooden candle holders are fairly affordable and easy to make if you’re crafty. Sand and stain a piece of log to hold a pillar candle. Or nail together a simple box frame to make a platform for a large taper. Outdoor wood holders will last longer if coated with polyurethane.

The main downside to wooden holders is their flammability. Make sure to place them on heat proof surfaces. Avoid lightweight thin woods that could catch fire. Hardwoods like oak and maple are safer options. With proper precautions, wooden holders make beautiful, natural candle holders.

Stone Holders

Stone makes for an excellent candle holder material. Stone holders provide a heavy, stable base that helps keep taper candles upright and prevents tipping. The density of natural stone also enables it to retain heat well, which can help extend the burn time of a taper candle by keeping the melted wax pool warm.

Stone candle holders come in many attractive styles. Soapstone, marble, granite, slate, and travertine are some examples of stones used to create candle holders. Polished or raw finishes give different decorative looks. Some stone holders are carved into shapes or have cutout designs. Others are simple cylinders or blocks.

The weight of stone holders lowers the fire risk should a candle get knocked over. The fire-resistant properties of natural stone also provide protection. Stone won’t burn like some materials. This makes it a safer choice than more flammable materials like wood or paper.

Stone candle holders work well for both indoor and outdoor use. Outdoors, stone won’t deteriorate or warp due to weather like some materials can. Just be sure to use a candle type suitable for outdoor use. The thermal mass of stone helps it retain heat outside, which is useful for keeping candles lit on breezy days.

For a customizable option, try filling a stone bowl, vase, or other container with sand, pebbles, or beads to hold a taper. This creates an instant stone candle holder with a unique filled design.

DIY Options

For those who are crafty or enjoy DIY projects, making your own candle holder can be a fun way to create a customized decoration that fits your style. With some simple materials and basic craft supplies, you can design a one-of-a-kind holder that adds a personal touch to any space.

Some ideas for DIY candle holders include:
– Painting or decoupaging empty glass jars or mugs to create vintage, shabby chic, or colorful holders.

– Decorating terra cotta pots with paint, mosaic tiles, ribbons, lace, or raffia to hold a taper.
– Filling empty tin cans with beads, buttons, dried flowers or other embellishments, then placing a candle inside.

– Cutting interesting shapes out of wood, metal, or acrylic sheets to form geometric holders.
– Gluing together broken plates, glasses, or vases for a mosaic or stained glass effect.

– Covering pillar candlesticks with scrapbook paper, fabric, lace, or other decorative trims.

The design options are endless, so DIY candle holders are a great way to create one-of-a-kind, customized pieces that reflect your decorating style. Making your own holder is an enjoyable craft project and allows you to match your candle display exactly to your home’s colors and theme.

Unconventional Holders

If you don’t have a traditional candle holder on hand, plenty of objects found around the house can make for great taper holders in a pinch. Get creative and repurpose everyday items to hold taper candles just as effectively.

Empty mugs and glasses make perfect improvised candle holders. Their sturdy bases keep tapers upright, while their openings hold them snugly in place. For a quick candlelit dinner, just drop a taper into a drinking glass at each place setting. Stemless wine glasses and short rocks glasses work especially well to grasp tall taper shafts.

Small bowls, cups, and jars also hold tapers beautifully. Look for ones around 3 inches wide or less for stability. The taper’s wax will drip down into the receptacle and collect neatly inside as the candle burns. Float a taper in a shallow bowl of water or beads for an island-inspired or bohemian look.

Upcycle items destined for the recycling bin into inventive candle holders. Cut the bottom off an empty aluminum can to make a cylindrical holder. Glue magnets onto bottle caps to hold tapers in place on the fridge or file cabinet. A round oatmeal container with a slit in the plastic lid makes for a budget-friendly votive holder.

With a bit of creativity, you can transform just about any stable object into a taper holder. Keep an eye out for unique pieces with character that will enhance the candle’s light. Your impromptu holders are sure to spark conversation when lit at the table or displayed around the home.

Safety Tips

When using taper candles, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Here are some tips to help prevent accidents and fires:

Placement

Be strategic about where you place taper candles. Keep them away from anything flammable like curtains, rugs, furniture, etc. Place taper candles on a sturdy, non-flammable surface at least 3 feet from anything that could catch fire. Avoid placing them in high traffic areas where they could get knocked over.

Supervision

Never leave a burning taper candle unattended. Make sure an adult is in the room monitoring the candle at all times. Trim wicks to 1⁄4 inch before lighting to prevent smoking and excessive flame height. Extinguish taper candles before going to sleep or leaving home. Do not allow children or pets near lit candles unsupervised.

Conclusion

When it comes to holders for taper candles, you have many options to choose from depending on your needs and personal style preferences. Classic candlesticks made of glass, metal, or wood are elegant choices that complement a taper’s tall, thin shape. More creative holders like stones, shells, or cups allow you to showcase the candle in an unusual way.safety considerations. Tapers burn quickly and can drip wax, so it’s important to use non-flammable holders that fully contain the candle. Stabilizing the base of the taper is also key to prevent tipping and fire hazards.

The abundance of taper holders available means you can find one that aligns with your decor and enables you to safely display these stately candles.