Japanese Sumac Wax Candle Set

These warosuku (Japanese candles) have been made for us by hand in the Daiyo atelier in Shiga, Japan, using traditional methods dating back to 1914.

Fit best with our Kumo candle holders in black and white.

The candlemakers use a technique called ‘tegake-seiho’. The wick is first made by wrapping a dried reed around a washi paper cylinder, which gives the candle a tall intense flame with minimal smoke. They then build up the candle by rotating the body whilst smoothing over hot wax in layers, before finally shaping the top.

It is said that there are only ten craftsmen in the world who have the skills to produce this kind of candle. The skill takes years to master, and only a small number of candles can be produced in a day.

The wax is known as ‘haze’, extracted from the sumac or haze lacquer tree, native to Japan. Wax squeezed from the valuable fruit of the tree has been used to make Japanese candles for centuries. Made from only natural, plant-based materials, these candles burn brightly and cleanly, without excess dripping or smoke.

Sumac candles are widely used in traditional tea ceremonies, buddhist altars and temples in Japan. Each candle radiates a soft, warm glow into the home, the perfect lighting for the dinner table, meditation, yoga and peaceful moments.