Savealls or Save-Alls

In the 17th and 18th century, and quite possibly earlier, people used what was called a saveall in order to use all of the candle. The saveall could be a three pronged device for holding a candle stub, or as seen in the sketch below of the girl selling spunks and savealls, they can be square with a spike in the center. These savealls fitted in the top of a normal candle holder.

Sketches by author.

This later 18th or 19th century image shows a different type of saveall, looking more like a gunsmith's hand vise! Perhaps it is?

Jack Be nimble, Jack Be Quick, Jack Jump Over The candle Stick. Making Dipped Candles.

I just made a video on making dipped candles, plus a little history. But it is not out on DVD yet so I will just use stills here.

Never heat wax or large amounts of tallow directly over a fire or on a stove top. It is inflammable & can burst into flame when heated in this manner. Always use a double kettle & melt the wax with the container in a kettle of water.

Not too much water, about half-way up the side of the container of wax. You don't want water splashing into the wax because it will spit hot wax everywhere!

Dip the wicks in the melted wax then lay them aside or hang them to set. If you have a number of candle sticks you can simply alternate.

The candle stick with three wicks tied on.

Keep dipping the wicks/candles & letting them cool between dips until you get the size you want. Smaller candles are needed for the candle holder on a tinderlighter. Short stubby ones are good to keep in your fire bag for drying out damp kindling.