My previous go-to candles, the Daikyo Rice Bran Taper Candles, came up short in testing. The candle mold leaves a clear seam on both sides of the candle, which isn’t the most elegant design.

Taper and pillar candles. Abundant and affordable, IKEA’s white Jubla tapers start at a 7.5 inches (from $8.99 for 20) and are made of stearin that the retailer says is derived from animal fat.

And if you need help finding tapered candles to go in your new candlesticks, we’ve got tons of recommendations for those, too. ... Sunday Nomad Mina Short Taper Candle Holder. $12 ...

In response to a growing design movement that prizes artisanal home goods and sensory-rich spaces, these creatives are turning the humble taper into high design.