Pronunciation: [kˈandə͡lmˌe͡ɪkɪŋ] (IPA) 
The word "candlemaking" is spelled as /ˈkændəlˌmeɪkɪŋ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. In this word, the "c" is pronounced as /k/, the "a" as /æ/, the "n" as /n/, the "d" as /d/, the "l" as /l/, the "e" as /ə/, the "m" as /m/, the "a" as /eɪ/, the "k" as /k/, the "i" as /ɪ/, and the "ng" as /ŋ/. This word refers to the process of making candles from wax, wick, and other materials.
Candlemaking is the process of creating candles either for personal use or professional purposes. It involves the art and craftsmanship of combining wax, a wick, and various additives to produce a functional and aesthetically pleasing candle.
The practice of candlemaking dates back centuries, with historical evidence suggesting its origins in ancient civilizations. Today, it is considered both a traditional craft and a contemporary hobby or small-scale industry. Candlemakers typically work with a variety of waxes, such as beeswax, soy wax, or paraffin, each offering different qualities and characteristics, such as burn time and fragrance absorption.
The process of candlemaking begins with melting the chosen wax in a double boiler or dedicated melting pot. Fragrances, dyes, or essential oils may be added at this stage to enhance the candle's aesthetic or olfactory appeal. The melted wax is then carefully poured into a prepared mold, which can range from traditional cylindrical shapes to more intricate designs like flowers or animals. A wick, usually made of cotton or other natural fibers, is inserted into the center of the melted wax and left to cool and harden.
Once the candle has solidified, it can be removed from the mold, trimmed, and packaged. Depending on the desired final product, additional techniques such as carving, painting, or glazing may be applied for decorative purposes. As candles have become popular for relaxation, ambiance, or spiritual practices, candlemaking has grown into a thriving industry offering a wide range of styles, scents, and designs to cater to individual preferences and needs.
The word "candlemaking" is derived from the combination of two words: "candle" and "making".
The word "candle" can be traced back to the Old English word "candela" or "candel", which was borrowed from Latin "candela" meaning "a light, torch, or wax candle". This Latin term itself is derived from the verb "candere", which means "to shine, be bright".
The word "making" comes from the Old English word "macian", which means "to construct, create, or form". This word has Germanic roots, specifically from the Proto-Germanic word "makōną".
When combined, "candlemaking" refers to the act or process of creating or manufacturing candles.
