Amazon.com Review
With a brief but compelling history of the candle, Catherine Bardey introduces us to a once-essential source of light that has lost none of its charm through the ages. We may no longer depend on candles for everyday illumination, but we still rely on them to create atmosphere, evoke a mood, or enhance our decor. Excellent descriptions of the various materials and techniques (molding, dipping, pouring, rolling, decorating) and extensive recipes for many types of candles ensure that even the novice can create beautiful designs.
The book's second half is devoted to potpourri, which is given the same careful treatment. A short introduction to scent in history--touching concisely upon perfumes, incense, and aromatherapy--leads into explanations of several methods for creating potpourri (fixatives, drying, storing, displaying). This is followed by specific recipes for, among others, spring, summer, and autumn medleys; energy-boosting, relaxing, and romantic scents; and themed potpourris for Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. A final section charts botanicals to grow for potpourri making, explores essential oils and their useful properties, and offers additional candle-decorating ideas. Pretty photos enhance the presentation. --Amy Handy
From the Back Cover
MAKING CANDLES & POTPOURRI
Catherine Bardey, fashion editor and stylist, reveals the secrets of using candles and potpourri to set the perfect mood in any room. She explains how to make and use beautiful potpourri arrangements of dried fruits and flowers to infuse each room with the scents of the seasons or holidays. Whether you're making exquisite girfts or adding that special detail to a room, you'll delight in the joys of these simple and creative projects.
Catherine walks you through the different techniques of candle and potpourri making providing easy and insightful ideas for personal touches along the way. She also gives recipes for her favorites including:
CANDLES
BASIC VOTIVES for everyday use
SAND CANDLES for a unique gift
LAVENDER MINI PILLARS to add a quaint aroma to any room
HANDROLLED BEESWAX CANDLES for extra illumination
Candles in apples or pears for special dinners
Holiday candles to complement celebrations
POTPOURRI
LUXURIOUS SUMMER, a festive arrangement with an elegant orchid base
VIBRANT VIOLET, a burst of purples reds and pinks with a fresh apple scent
AUTIMN MEMORIES, a warm sensual mix with earthly undertones
SWEET SWEET DREAMS to help you relax and sleep
GIVE THANKS, a fall holiday mix
JASMINE DELIGHT, a bold mix with a luxurious feel
This is just the beginning. Use these examples as starting points for your own candles and potpourri to create the perfect environment for any occasion!
