Altar Candle Selector

Measure first, then choose your altar candle

Before choosing Classic, Standard, Classic Beeswax, Stearine, Requiem or Premium candles, check the dimensions of your candle and the fittings it needs to work with. Record exact measurements in millimetres, rather than rounding to the nearest candle size.

You will need: a ruler or tape measure, a pair of callipers if available, and a note of your measurements. Only measure when the candle is extinguished and the candle, holder and fittings are completely cool. Diagrams below are schematic and not to scale.

1. Candlestick socket: measure the inside, not the outside

       ← inside width →
       │              │
       │              │ ↕ seating
       │              │   depth
       └──────────────┘
          SOCKET

Remove the cold candle. Check that any removable wax deposits are not disguising the socket's true opening, following the holder's care instructions.
Measure straight across the inside of the socket, edge to edge through the centre. Do not measure the outside rim.
Measure in a second direction. If the socket narrows, record the opening width and the narrower width where the candle will sit.
Record the seating depth, from the rim to the base where the candle rests. Note any spike, insert or unusual base shape.

Write down: inside width(s) ___ mm; seating depth ___ mm; base or spike details ___.

2. Candle cap or follower: measure the candle-fitting opening

          ┌──────┐
         /        \
        /          \
        │          │
        ← inside →
          opening
          FOLLOWER

Remove the cool follower and identify the lower opening that fits around the candle, not the smaller opening around the wick.
Measure the inside diameter of that candle-fitting opening through the centre in two directions. Record any taper or internal restriction.
Check the follower manufacturer's stated candle size and fitting instructions against the candle you intend to buy. An opening measurement alone does not confirm compatibility.

Write down: lower inside diameter ___ mm; maker/model or specified candle size ___.

3. Candle: measure diameter, base and full height

       SIDE VIEW       TOP VIEW
         ┌────┐          _____
         │    │         /     \
  full ↕ │    │        │←───→│
 height  │    │         \_____/
         └────┘         diameter
         ←───→
      base diameter

If you have a candle that fits correctly, measure it while cold. Measure across the widest part of its body through the centre, not around its circumference.
Measure again at a right angle and record the larger reading. Measure the base separately if it is tapered, stepped or shaped.
Measure the full wax height from the bottom of the base to the top of the wax, excluding the wick. Record the height and diameter separately.
Compare the exact dimensions on the chosen candle listing with your socket and follower measurements. Do not assume that two candles with the same nominal size have identical bases or will fit the same accessories.

Write down: widest body diameter ___ mm; base diameter ___ mm; full wax height ___ mm; base shape ___.

Check your measurements before ordering

The base needs to suit the socket and the body needs to suit the follower. Follow the holder and follower manufacturers' fitting and safety instructions. Never force a candle or follower into place. If the measurements are close or the fitting is unusual, contact DM Hay with your measurements and photographs before ordering.

Once you have recorded your size, check the available dimensions in your chosen candle range.