Pairing candles with the right holder

Start with the candle, then choose the holder. A tealight needs a cup a little wider than its 4 cm base, while dinner and pillar candles need a holder sized to their base so they stand straight. On a dining table, keep holders low enough that guests can still see each other across them.

At 51 and 66 cm tall, the lanterns work on the floor beside a sofa, at an entrance or on a covered patio. Keep the flame inside the glass and well away from the woven water hyacinth, or use a battery candle if children or pets are around.

Never leave a lit candle unattended, and keep it clear of curtains and the draught from a ceiling fan, which makes flames flicker and smoke. Let spilt wax harden before lifting it off, and dry iron holders after cleaning so humidity does not leave rust spots.