A Tradition Spanning Centuries
Candle making is an ancient craft dating back to early civilizations, where tallow, beeswax, and other natural substances were used to create sources of light. At Ridisosteo, we honor this timeless tradition while incorporating modern techniques and sustainable materials to create premium scented candles that elevate any space.
The art of candle making requires precision, patience, and a deep understanding of how different ingredients interact with one another. Each Ridisosteo candle goes through a meticulous process before reaching your home. Let's explore the journey from raw materials to finished product.
Selecting Quality Ingredients
Every exceptional candle begins with superior ingredients. At Ridisosteo, we carefully source our materials from trusted suppliers who share our commitment to quality and sustainability.
Wax Selection
The foundation of any candle is its wax. We offer various options, each with unique properties:
- Soy Wax: Derived from soybean oil, this natural wax burns cleanly and slowly, making it perfect for long-lasting candles. It has excellent scent throw and is biodegradable.
- Beeswax: One of the oldest candle materials, beeswax offers a subtle honey scent and naturally purifies the air as it burns. It has a beautiful golden color and high melting point.
- Coconut Wax: This sustainable option provides excellent scent throw and a clean, slow burn. It's creamy white appearance and natural origin make it a popular choice.
- Paraffin Blends: For certain applications, we use high-quality paraffin blends that provide exceptional scent throw and vibrant colors.
Fragrance Formulation
Our signature fragrances are developed in-house by our skilled perfumers. We use a combination of essential oils and high-quality fragrance oils to create complex, layered scents that evolve as the candle burns. Each fragrance undergoes extensive testing to ensure it performs beautifully in various wax types.
Wicks and Containers
Selecting the right wick is critical for proper burning. We use cotton wicks that are lead-free and properly sized for each container to ensure optimal flame height and heat distribution. Our containers are chosen for both aesthetic appeal and safety, made from heat-resistant materials that complement the candle's design.
The Crafting Process
Once all components are selected, the creation process begins in our Hamilton studio. Each step is performed with exacting attention to detail:
1. Wax Preparation
The selected wax is carefully measured and melted in small batches using temperature-controlled equipment. Precise heating is crucial—too hot, and the wax may discolor; too cool, and it won't properly bind with fragrances.
2. Fragrance Blending
When the wax reaches the optimal temperature (typically between 175-185°F, depending on the wax type), we add the fragrance oils. The mixture is gently stirred to ensure even distribution without introducing air bubbles.
3. Wick Placement
Each container is prepared with a properly centered wick secured with a metal tab at the base. For larger containers or unique shapes, multiple wicks may be used to ensure even burning.
4. Pouring
The scented wax is poured slowly and steadily into each container, taking care to maintain proper temperature throughout the process. For layered or multi-colored candles, each layer must set before the next is added.
5. Cooling and Curing
Freshly poured candles are allowed to cool in a temperature-controlled environment for 24 hours. After initial setting, most candles require a curing period of 1-2 weeks for the fragrance to fully bind with the wax and develop its optimal scent throw.
6. Finishing Touches
Once cured, each candle undergoes quality inspection. Wicks are trimmed to the proper length, and custom labels and packaging are applied. For our sculptural candles, additional hand-finishing may be required to perfect detailed elements.
The Artisanal Difference
What sets Ridisosteo candles apart is our unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. While mass-produced candles are made on assembly lines, our artisanal approach means each candle receives individual attention. This hands-on process allows us to maintain strict quality control and create truly exceptional products.
Our chandlers (candle makers) train for months to develop the skills needed to create perfect candles consistently. They understand the subtle nuances of how different waxes behave, how fragrances develop, and how to troubleshoot common issues like sinkholes or uneven surfaces.
Sustainable Practices
At Ridisosteo, artistry goes hand-in-hand with responsibility. We implement several sustainability initiatives in our production:
- Using natural, renewable waxes whenever possible
- Sourcing containers that can be reused or recycled
- Minimizing waste through careful measuring and small-batch production
- Using biodegradable packaging materials
- Offering a container return program for local customers
Experience the Difference
When you light a Ridisosteo candle, you're experiencing the culmination of centuries of tradition, modern innovation, and meticulous craftsmanship. Each flicker of the flame represents our passion for creating products that engage the senses and enhance your environment.
We invite you to explore our collection of handcrafted candles and discover the perfect scent for your space. Whether you prefer the cozy warmth of vanilla and amber or the refreshing clarity of citrus and herb, we have a fragrance profile crafted just for you.
