Sculptural candles are works of art that bring a minimalist, modern touch to a space, but they can be functional, too. These decorative pieces are designed to be admired (anything for the aesthetic), but we know some of you may want to light them for a special occasion. Whether you want to display your candles or burn them, there are essential care tips to follow for maintaining their beauty and enjoying them safely. Here’s a guide to help you care for these stunning creations.
Designed to Be Decorative
Our sculptural candles are designed to be enjoyed as part of your home decor. We chose to hand-pour each candle using high-quality soy wax to create a clean, minimalist aesthetic. If you want to enjoy their beauty, you can display them as they are to preserve their original form. Burning the candle will change its shape and details, and that’s perfectly fine!
But before you burn your candle, follow these steps so you can do it safely:
How to Safely Burn Sculptural Candles
1. Trim the Wick:
Before lighting, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch to start your candle with an even, controlled burn and help prevent excessive heat and soot. Grab a candle wick trimmer to really set the scene.
2. Place on a Heat-Safe, Non-Flammable Surface:
Always burn your candle on a heat-resistant, level surface to prevent damage or accidents. A concrete tray works great for this purpose!
3. Supervise at All Times:
Never leave any candle unattended. Stay nearby while it’s lit, and extinguish it if you need to step away. Candles can be intriguing to curious hands (and paws). Keep candles out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidents. Ventilated areas are okay, but drafty spaces are a no-no.
4. Limit Burn Time:
Burn time varies with sculptural candles because of their shapes and sizes. A good rule of thumb is the smaller the candle, the shorter the burn. Burn one hour at a time to prevent overheating and extend the life of your candle.
5. Dispose of Safely:
When your candle has burned down to about 1/2 inch of wax, stop using it. Burning to the bottom can contribute to overheating and damage the surface beneath. You can gently blow out your candle or use one of our candle snuffers to safely extinguish it without the risk of splattering wax everywhere.
Warnings to Keep in Mind
- Do Not Burn Near Flammable Objects: Keep your candles away from curtains and other flammable materials.
- Never Relight a Broken Candle: If your candle cracks or becomes unstable, do not relight it. Either use it as decor or dispose of it safely.
- Use Candle Tools: A wick dipper or snuffer is perfect for extinguishing the flame without risking wax splatter. Explore our candle care accessories and choose your favorite!
Cleaning Up Drips
Spills can happen, so be mindful of where you place your candle. If wax drips onto a surface, let it cool and harden fully before carefully scraping it with a non-abrasive tool. A little warm water and mild soap can help remove residue or stubborn spots.
A Final Note on Sculptural Candles
If you choose to burn your sculptural candle, you should always prioritize safety by following the guidelines above.
Looking to add some sculptural candles to your collection? Take a look at our Home Decor section and find your favorite.