During the early times, candles were just used for illumination and not as decorative items for homes. The main purpose was just to provide the light needed to perform the activities to be done at night. Hence, regardless of economic standing, colonial candle making was a part of every household.
The more common type of candles used during those times was the tallow candles. These were made from a substance found in animal fat. These served as the kerosene that gives out the light that everybody needed at nighttime. These tallow candles produce an unpleasant smell because of the source of the wax. You can probably imagine how it would be to have a burning candle that emits an unpleasant odor, but you just have to ignore it because of the need for light. The odor becomes a minor thing.
Aside from the negative smell, tallow candles burn very fast and they drip profusely. Hence, the need for an abundant supply is high especially during the cold winter nights. Colonial candle making is more intensive during summer season when people prepare the candles that they will use during the cold season. People are busy producing tallow and forming them into tapered candles. This was one major activity that every household engaged themselves in during the colonial era.
For those who come from the higher level of society, colonial candle making involved the use of bayberry wax or beeswax as options. These were definitely more expensive since they require a lot of bayberries and beeswax to produce enough candle supply for a whole week. This was not definitely very affordable. This was a differentiating factor that defined economic standing during those times. This is the reason why the use of tallow was preferred by ordinary citizens.
There are practices that are still being done and were taken from colonial candle making activities. The melting of the wax is still a part of the process. The same process is being done but an innovation of adding colors and fragrances made candle making at home today more exciting and enjoying. Also, candles are no longer for lighting purposes. They serve many other uses. They decorate homes. They provide a relaxed environment. They make dinners more romantic. They can give a soothing feeling. There are more reasons why they are still around and why a lot of people are into candle making hobby. It is here to stay and the foundation that colonial candle making has given to this modern hobby will always be appreciated and practiced.
Colonial candle making has given way to the modern candles that you see around. When you go to an antique shop, or craft stores or souvenir stores, you will find a variety of them made with different designs, colors and scent. These are what make them more attractive and appealing these days. They make an accent that can make a difference in your house. If you want the colonial era effect in your homes, you can do it by choosing the appropriate candle holders. It can be fun and fulfilling.