If you are thinking about redecorating your home, do not forget the elegance that can be added through the use of candles.
Candles are available in many shapes and sizes other than simple tapers today. In addition many are scented and can make your home smell fabulous.
The small little tea lights only have a burn time of three to five hours but they are a great addition when used in a lantern or other display. They can also be used to warm potpourri warmers or scented waxes or oils.
Votive candles are also small candles but they come in many wonderful scents. Today's votive candles do not have the overpowering scents of the former dime store varieties of a few decades ago. Some will actually liquefy when they burn so always be sure that you use them in a votive cup.
Jar candles are available in many scents and colors. They are often long lasting candles and after burning, when the jar is cool, you can replace the lid to keep all the scent inside the jar.
You will find pillar candles in many sizes. For even burning, you will need to do some work. Since these candles melt in the middle and leave the wall standing tall. After you extinguish the candle, you will need to fold in these walls so that they will melt the next time you burn your candle. Be careful that you do not burry the wick or fold in so much wax that it will extinguish the flame the next time your candle burns.
By using candles, you can add warmth and light to almost any room. In addition, they can add many wonder smells and colors. When arranging candles, follow these bits of advice for the best decorating.
Candle displays should always contain an odd number of candles. This will add visual appeal as it provides a central focus point for the eyes and the brain. With even numbers of candles, the brain cannot choose a side on which to focus. Arrange candles in ones, threes or fives.
One of your best friends with candles is reflection. The light of one candle can be multiplied numerous times through the use of mirrors, very clean glass or crystal. Another way to increase reflection is through the use of reflective beads. Often you can find these beads in many different colors at after Christmas sales. When draped around your displays or dropped into hurricanes they can pick up the reflections.
If you can arrange your candles with a dark background, the contrast gives an even greater sense of light. Try solid black table runners or a navy or black tablecloth for a a candle garden that glows.
Here is how to use a candle garden on your table. Begin with a nice charger plate. Add an odd number of pillar candles. Add beads, marbles or flattened marbles to the garden. Be sure that you are using unscented pillars for displays that will be used on tables where food is served, as the scented ones can affect your food's taste.
Annie Deakin is a journalist, fashion and furniture expert and editor at mydeco.com who is currently interested in
bathrooms,
furniture, and
living room furniture.
