Need some inspiration added to your candle making? Are you stuck with the same old votives and pillars and jelly jars and looking for a way to rekindle (pun intended) your love for candles? Here are the books I go back to when I'm looking for candle inspiration. They're not "how-to" books, but rather "idea" books that show the amazing multitude of ways that candles can be used to decorate, enlighten (again, pun intended) and otherwise brighten our homes and our lives. You won't learn new ways to make votives, but you'll learn new ways to use votives and incorporate them into your home.
1. The Complete Book of Candles and Candle Making by Gloria Nicol
Lorenz Books
O.k., there are a few actual "projects" in this book, but it's still one of my all-time favorite books on candles and candle making. A gorgeous coffee table size book, it's full of an intriguingly wide variety of candles and decorating/use ideas.
2. Candles: Elements of the Table by Slavin & Jones
Collins Publishers
This book asks "Is there a proper place for candles?" And answers, "Anywhere, everywhere."
I found this book at a used book store recently, and it's one of my new favorite books on candles. There is not one recipe or project or instruction in it, but rather an informational and inspiring wealth of innovative ideas. The really interesting thing about this book is that it's not really a "decorating" book either - the ideas and examples it shows are based on richly written and illustrated history, tradition, romance, magic, and an overal sense of warmth and opulence. From candles used in ceremonies and holidays, to birthday parties and picnics, this book deeply and warmly explores just what makes candles so elemental and satisfying to us all.
I found this book at a used book store recently, and it's one of my new favorite books on candles. There is not one recipe or project or instruction in it, but rather an informational and inspiring wealth of innovative ideas. The really interesting thing about this book is that it's not really a "decorating" book either - the ideas and examples it shows are based on richly written and illustrated history, tradition, romance, magic, and an overal sense of warmth and opulence. From candles used in ceremonies and holidays, to birthday parties and picnics, this book deeply and warmly explores just what makes candles so elemental and satisfying to us all.
3. The Candlelit Home: Decorating with Candles Year Round by John Terrell Fry
Harry N. Abrams Publisher
If you're like me, and love to make candles, then you're going to have them all over your house. This wonderful book has some really practical interior design ideas about how to use them as the centerpieces and as accents to your home decor inside and out. Divided into "seasons", the ideas in this book, from pumpkin coaches to candles around the tub, will help you transform your candles and your home into a warm and inviting space.
4. Candles by Jon Newman
Thunder Bay Press
If you ever feel the need to feel proud of being a candle maker, or want to feel a part of a thousands-of-years-old tradition, pick up this book. While it does have a chapter at the end about actually making your own candles, the true beauty of this book lies in the collection of photos, advertising images, and graphics illustrating the magnificent and fascinating history of candles and candle making. From engravings showing an arrangement of straw and wooden beehives, to 19th century photos of young boys making candles in a London factory...from advertisements for Ogleby's Night Lights ("Luminous & Cleanly Safe") to Price's Carriage Candles...you'll be amazed at this historical collection of candle history.
5. Illuminate by Amanda Hammond
Laurel Glen Publishing
This book concentrates more on the calming and healing qualities of candles and candle light...especially the light. Drawing on aspects of light, color, and even some aromatherapy, this book will help you use your candles to transform your home into a true sanctuary. If you're looking to hibernate, contemplate, or just create a calmer mood...this is a lovely book.
