History

• During early Roman and Egyptian times, an animal-based substance called tallow was used in candle-making. Because of its inefficiency and reportedly awful smell, tallow gave way to beeswax. Paraffin wax, which is commonly used in today's candles, came along in the mid-19th Century.
  
  

Types

• Red CandlesImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of Brenda Clarke
  
  In addition to paraffin, modern candles are made from beeswax, vegetable wax, or gel wax. Sometimes, candles made from any type of wax are then dipped in colored paraffin, which burns cleanly and without significant odor.
  
  

Coloring

• While some candles have a layer of colored paraffin, others are colored throughout, using liquid dyes and pigment dyes. Dissolving herbs and spices (turmeric, paprika or beets, for example) in oil is another popular method of coloring candles.
  
  

Fun Fact

• Though citronella candle-making is a booming business, it is the smoke--not the citronella--that drives mosquitoes away. The citronella is merely used for color and scent.
  
  

Warning

• Making and coloring candles can be tremendously fun and rewarding, but it's best to start from one of the many kits on the market. If making candles from scratch, significant research is recommended in order to ensure the candles are safe.