Part two of the hand-dipped tutorial.
Hand Dipped Twists
Twists are simply sculpted tapered candles. Follow the instructions listed previously to make a hand-dipped taper candle. Allow the candle to only cool partially. While the candle is still soft and plaible, place the taper between two pieces of wax paper. Using a rolling pin, flatten the taper to approximately ¼” thick. Grab hold of the center of the candle with one hand and the top of the candle in the other hand. Now twist one end in one direction and the other end in the opposite direction until the candle is tightly twisted. Do the same for the lower half of the taper. Be sure to leave a little untwisted area at the bottom of the taper so that it will fit snugly in a candle holder. Voila, you have a twisted taper candle.
Variation:
Try braided or double twisted tapers. To make these lovely candles, keep the diameter of the candles smaller by dipping the wicks less. When the candle has cooled but is still warm and pliable, you can braid three thin candles together (or twist two candles together). Keep two of the candles attached where the wick was looped over the spoon and join a third candle with the other wicks. It’s helpful to hook the wicks onto something to hold the candles taut while you work. Braid the candles together, just as you would braid hair. Then, press the bottoms of the candles together and shape to fit a candle holder. For larger versions, be sure to flatten and smooth the bottom of the candle so it can stand on its own. You can braid different colored candles together for a variety of looks. Try braiding or twisting colors for different seasons and holidays, too.
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