Tower Candles

Water Tower Candle The historic stone tower in Ypsilanti, MI is not only an area landmark, but holds a place of quirky distinction and local pride.  It borders both Eastern Michigan University where I went to art school, and the Normal Park neighborhood where I live. This candle is offered in celebration of our beloved water tower – uniquely Ypsilanti. The tower was designed by William R. Coats and completed in 1890. It sits atop the highest point in Ypsilanti. Made of Joliet limestone, the tower is almost 150 feet tall.  For more information about Ypsilanti’s historic stone tower, visit YCUA. My Ypsilanti Water Tower Candle is 8.5” tall, and is made of a 50/50 blend of soy and paraffin wax. All candles are unscented. They are made using a 2-part silicone glove mold & plaster mold combination (see images below). Prices include free USPS Standard Shipping within the U.S. Please contact me for local pick-up or other shipping methods. Look for them locally at The Eyrie in Depot Town in Ypsilanti (contact for current availability 734-340-9286
Off-White Soy Blend Water Tower Candle  $25	Painted Soy Blend Water Tower Candle  $35
Bell Tower Candle A prominent landmark and symbol of the University if Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mi, the Burton Memorial Tower and Baird Grand Carillon is commonly known as the Bell Tower. Rendered here as a hand made soy-blend candle. The Bell Tower Candle stands 10.5″ tall. I have many great memories of the tower from rallys and protests on the U of M diag, to a personal tour and concert played on the amazing carillon bells. Because of the unique shape of this candle, dripping may occur. Always place in a heat-safe plate or dish when burning. Burn time aprox 30 hours.Leading up to this I’ve created the original model, made a silicone glove mold and an outer shell. Twice. I’m now able to pour 2 Bell Tower Candles and 3 Water Tower Candles at the same time. For me that’s high production!
Off-White Soy Blend Bell Tower Candle  $30

How They’re Made…

A simple armature and clay are given form and detail.

The finished model that molds will be made from.

A 2-part silicone mix is applied in 4 coats to capture detail.

With a plaster outer shell providing support.

Now turned upside down with a wick running through.

After a few more pours and 6+ hours to cool…

A familiar form emerges as the silicone glove mold is pealed back.

From layers of plaster and silicone comes a candle.

Things don’t always go as planned, and mistakes are made.

But even the mistakes get another chance at candle stardom.

Please exit through the gift shop.
:) Thank you!

New Summer 2016 – Bell Tower Candle – University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, MI

Hand painted Water Tower Candle