ABC’s of Decorating: “C” is for Candles
The letter “C” can apply to so many things when it comes to decorating not the least of which is color. But we talk about color so much that I thought we would discuss something a little different for the letter “C”—candles.
Candles are a very important part of decorating. They add light, ambience, color and scent to a room. Let’s take a look at some of the choices you have.
Soy or Wax?
As the name implies, soy candles are made from a wax derived from soy beans. This results in a natural product that is fairly inexpensive and very renewable. Soy candles can last up to three times longer than regular paraffin wax candles and usually burn much cleaner, producing less black soot. Most scents are added through the use of essential oils keeping with the all natural idea.
Paraffin used in candle making is a by product of petroleum. Burning petroleum is probably not a good idea but, to be fair, the amount you burn is minimal so probably no need to worry. Paraffin produces a black soot that you can see on the inside of a candle holder or even on the wall next to the candle. Paraffin is often less expensive than soy but if you take into consideration the amount of burn time you receive with soy it probably all pencils out.
Scented or unscented?
This is strictly a personal choice. It is nice to burn a candle with a scent reminiscent of the season i.e.