How to Choose Hand Dipped Taper Candles
By APOTHEKE | Home Fragrances To Elevate Your Everyday ... | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: Buying Guides
Learn what to look for in hand dipped taper candles, from wax blend and size to color and burn time, so you can pick the perfect set for your table.
Quick Answer
For a classic, elegant look, choose hand dipped taper candles made with a beeswax blend and a 13-inch length—they fit most standard holders and burn slowly, making them ideal for dinner parties.
Why Wax Blend Matters
The wax blend affects burn time, scent, and how cleanly the candle burns. Hand dipped candles often combine beeswax with other premium waxes to improve burn quality and reduce dripping. Beeswax burns longer and cleaner than paraffin, so a blend with beeswax is a good choice for long dinners.
If you prefer a more natural option, look for candles that highlight beeswax content. However, pure beeswax candles can be more expensive, so a blend offers a balance of performance and value.
Size and Holder Compatibility
Taper candles come in various lengths and diameters. The 13-inch length is a common standard that fits most taper holders and candlesticks. The diameter, often around 0.85 inches, should match your holder's opening—too wide and the candle won't fit, too narrow and it will wobble.
Before buying, measure your holders or check the product dimensions. If you're using a candelabra, ensure the taper's length is proportionate to the fixture.
Color and Setting
Color sets the mood. Ivory tapers are classic and neutral, blending with any table setting. For a pop of color, turquoise or heather add a modern, playful touch. Honey offers a warm, natural tone that complements rustic or autumn themes.
Consider the occasion: ivory for formal dinners, honey for cozy gatherings, and turquoise or heather for festive celebrations. If you're unsure, a neutral color is safer and more versatile.
Decision Rules for Choosing Taper Candles
- Check the wax blend: Look for candles made with beeswax or a blend of premium waxes. Beeswax burns longer and cleaner, but pure beeswax may be pricier. A blend offers good performance at a lower cost. If you prioritize natural ingredients, consider pure beeswax; otherwise, a blend is a balanced choice.
- Measure your holders: Verify the taper's diameter and length against your candle holders. A 13-inch length and 0.85-inch diameter are common, but always confirm with your holder's specifications. If your holders are unusual, measure before buying to avoid a poor fit.
- Match color to occasion: Choose neutral colors like ivory for formal events, warm tones like honey for cozy dinners, and bold colors like turquoise or heather for festive moments. When in doubt, pick a neutral color that works across many settings.
Hand Dipped Taper Candles We Recommend
- Hand Dipped Candles - Honey: Hand Dipped Candles - Honey are made with a blend of beeswax, other premium waxes and dyes, and measure 0.85" diameter by 13" length. The beeswax blend ensures a clean, long burn, while the 13-inch length fits most standard taper holders.
Hand Dipped Candles - Honey - Hand Dipped Candles - Ivory: Hand Dipped Candles - Ivory are handmade in the USA and feature a classic ivory color that suits any table setting. Ivory tapers are versatile and elegant, making them a safe choice for formal dinners or everyday use.
Hand Dipped Candles - Ivory
Who Should Choose These Tapers
Best for
- People who host dinner parties and want an elegant, classic table setting
- Those who prefer natural wax blends and longer burn times
Not for
- If you need scented candles, as these tapers are not advertised as scented
- If you have non-standard holders that require a different diameter or length
