Some of My Favorite Drippy Wax Candles

What is it about those beautiful dripping candles on the table that we all love so much?

Those drips of wax rolling down the candle and onto the candlestick creating layers of beautiful colors of wax one on top of another. All telling a little bit of a story of evenings and special moments past.

The funny thing about drippy candles?

Have you noticed that Almost ALL candles are advertised and sold as ‘Dripless’ candles? It is actually not easy to find those candles that don’t say that.

So, then I thought that maybe I was one of the only crazy people out there who loved those wax drips so much. But- every time I share a photo- I always get a ton of questions about how to get the candles to drip so beautifully. Honestly, I don’t do much- they kind of create those beautiful intricate wax drips on their own. But- a couple things I have noticed today.

So I first discovered the easiest way to get the candles to look so.darn.good. while I was setting up and working on a table setting outdoors. One of the first things I do when setting up the centerpiece is to light the taper candles if they are new. I don’t want tall candles that look like I just picked them up at the store. I want different heights and goodness on the candles that look like they have been enjoyed many times already.

So when using brand new tapers- I set them in the candlesticks and light them while I work on the place settings to give them a bit of time to burn down a bit and look less ‘shiny’ & ‘new’. And oftentimes- they will drip just like they do.

Something I am asked about all.the.time. What about the table top? How do you protect it from the wax?

Tip: If you don’t want wax on your tabletop- layer a piece of parchment paper or the like on the table BEFORE placing your candlesticks on it. You can also use a small plate, flat breadboard or platter, etc. & set your candlestick on that to keep the wax off the table as much as possible.

When the breeze blows

One particular day while I set up the table- there was an ever so very slight breeze- not enough to blow the candles out & they were not unattended so I wasn’t concerned while working right there- but I noticed that they were dripping exceptionally well for some reason. Right on down the side and onto the candlestick and layering up just perfectly. So I do think that if you were to ‘blow’ on them while setting up- you might be able to get them to start to drip a bit.

The other way I have noticed they drip nicely is when they are simply not placed in the holder 100 straight. Just a tad off – they will start off with a nice roll that will build when you light them again. * Be Careful not to have too off straight.

Again- protect your tabletop if you are concerned- they will splash right on down to the bottom of the taper holder and your table.

Safety First- ALWAYS

And another reminder of course to mind safety first and always when lighting candles for your table or anywhere.

Do not ever leave them unattended.

And don’t leave them burning off straight, or for too long – or use them when it is windy and dry outside.

You will notice in my new book- there were a couple of stylings where we had candles on the table- but did not light them- even though they would have made the photo even more amazing. It simply wasn’t safe to light them and even when trying to get THE perfect photo for or ambiance- safety always comes first.

How about favorite candle colors?

Ohhh I have a bunch of them.

Blush, taupe, grey, white, ivory, Burgundy, even black… the list goes on. I think basically the only ones I don’t love are the brightly colored candles- they just don’t mesh with my style.

One of the candles in my book that so many of you have asked about where to find- is actually currently available in very limited quantity in my shop I am super excited to have been able to secure some stock of them before they were discontinued.

These are 7″ chunky tapers in a delicious French Mauve Rose color. They are full color through out- rather than just layer of color on the outside of the candle- and European made candles.

I am currently taking orders first come, first serve in my shop. I have very limited supply coming so if you want some go grab them.

I also have a handful of these charming herb & flower mason jar candles available- they are leftover from a sample order from a handmade candle vendor and various scents.

Favorite Places to Buy Candles

I shop several spots for taper candles. One of my favorites is HomeGoods- and if you want to shop online you can try TjMaxx.com – they may have some.

You can also find candles on Amazon– I have several varieties in my Amazon Shop that might fit what you are looking for. (affiliate links)

The Dollar Store often has basic whites taper candles- they work if you are looking for simple candles.

Hope this helps answer some of your questions-see you tomorrow for a closer look at a favorite shoot from the book- and delicious apple pie recipe.

Find my new book featuring some of these candles HERE (affiliate)