Long Candles: Extra-Long Tapers & Décor Ideas

Long candles have been cherished for centuries as both functional light sources and elegant décor accents. Defined by their extended height—often 10 inches or more—these candles bring a sense of drama and sophistication to any setting, whether illuminating a romantic dinner, enhancing a wedding centerpiece, or adding ambient warmth to your living room. In this article, you’ll learn what makes long candles unique, explore the various types available, discover styling ideas, and pick up essential care and safety tips to ensure your long candles burn beautifully and last as long as possible.

What Are Long Candles?

Long candles are any wax-based candles that exceed the standard height of pillar or votive candles—typically 10 inches and up. They’re prized for their graceful silhouette and extended burn time. Historically, long taper candles were the primary source of indoor lighting; today, they’re predominantly used for ambiance and décor, elevating both formal and casual settings with their slender, stately profiles.

Types of Long Candles

Taper Candles

• Description: Slim, cylindrical candles designed to fit into candlesticks.
• Common Heights: 10″, 12″, 14″, 18″.
• Materials: Paraffin, beeswax, soy.
• Ideal Uses: Dining tables, mantels, candelabras.

Pillar Candles

• Description: Thicker and more robust, pillars can stand alone without holders.
• Common Heights: 6″–12″ (long variants reach 10″+).
• Materials: Stearin blends, paraffin.
• Ideal Uses: Coffee table accents, outdoor lanterns.

LED Long Candles

• Description: Battery-powered replicas with flickering LEDs.
• Advantages: No flame, drip-free, safe for children and pets.
• Ideal Uses: Restaurants, weddings, and any space where open flame isn’t practical.

Benefits of Using Long Candles

1. Extended Burn Time: Their greater wax volume means you’ll enjoy hours more light compared to shorter tapers or votives.
2. Elegant Ambiance: The tall, slender shape draws the eye upward, creating a sense of height and drama in any room.
3. Versatile Styling: Available in an array of colors, finishes (matte, metallic), and scents—from classic ivory to scented blends like lavender or cedar.
4. Focal Point Creation: A row of long candles makes a striking centerpiece for tablescapes, altars, or outdoor gatherings.

How to Choose the Right Long Candle

• Purpose & Placement:
  • For dining tables, choose dripless long tapers with a snug fit in your candlesticks.
  • For standalone décor, opt for long pillar candles with a flat base.
• Wax Type:
  • Paraffin: Bright flame, economical.
  • Beeswax: Natural honey scent, longer burn, less smoke.
  • Soy: Clean-burning, plant-based, holds fragrance well.
• Color & Finish:
  • Neutral whites/ivories for classic settings.
  • Bold hues or metallics for modern décor or seasonal themes.
• Scented vs. Unscented:
  • Unscented for minimal distraction in formal events.
  • Lightly scented for home relaxation—avoid overpowering fragrance at dinner.

Styling and Décor Ideas

• Classic Candlelit Dinner: Line six long ivory tapers down the center of your table, interspersed with greenery or low floral arrangements.
• Rustic Centerpiece: Cluster long pillar candles of varying heights on a wooden slice, surround with pinecones or seasonal foliage.
• Outdoor Ambience: Place long LED candles inside glass lanterns or hurricane vases along a garden path for safe, weather-resistant illumination.
• Event Installations: For weddings or parties, suspend long candles in hanging candelabras or glass globes to create a floating “forest” of light.

Safety and Care Tips

• Trim the Wick: Before each burn, trim to ¼” to encourage a steady flame and minimize smoke.
• Use Proper Holders: Ensure tapers fit securely—loose candles can tip and drip hot wax.
• Avoid Drafts: Position away from fans, vents, or open windows to prevent uneven burning and excessive dripping.
• Monitor Burn Time: Do not burn longer than 4 hours at a stretch; allow the candle to cool before relighting.
• Extinguishing Safely: Use a snuffer to reduce smoke and prevent hot wax splash.

FAQ

How long do long candles typically burn?

Burn time varies by wax type and diameter, but most 12” long taper candles burn between 6–8 hours. Beeswax tapers often last longest, while soy may burn slightly faster.

Are long candles safe to use indoors?

Yes, as long as you place them in stable holders, keep them away from drafts and flammable materials, and never leave them unattended while burning.

What is the best wax for long candles?

Beeswax offers the cleanest burn and longest lifespan, while paraffin provides the brightest flame and color variety. Soy is a great plant-based compromise with good scent retention.

Can I reuse partially burned long candles?

Yes—trim any uneven wax or wick, then relight. Using a snuffer and keeping wicks trimmed helps candles burn down evenly so they can be reused cleanly.