Candlestick Magic: an Adjustable Candlestick Holder

Goal: design and build the ultimate candlestick holder that is easy to use and stylish.  Different sized silicone rubber inserts ensure a snug, repeatable fit with standard candle sizes.  A heavy wood and metal base with an organically shaped arm support a turned aluminum top.

Materials:
  • Slice of oak (from firewood)
  • Low melting point bismuth alloy
  • Polyester resin
  • Urethane rubber (for mold making)
  • Aluminum rod (for turning)
  • RTV silicone rubber (shore 40A)
  • Delrin rod (for mold making)

Processes:
  • Mold making and pouring (for polyester and silicone parts)
  • Turning of aluminum top and threaded brass inserts
  • Metal casting
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The base is made of oak and a low melting point bismuth-tin alloy.
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The aluminum top piece was turned on a lathe from 3" bar stock. An integrated saucer catches any wax drips.
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A better look at the insert geometry.
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The trunk was cast using tinted polyester resin; the mold form was created using a rubber mold of a walking stick. Machined brass inserts secure it to the base and top of the candlestick holder.
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The silicone inserts were made in a machined delrin mold; their internal and external geometries were designed to fit 3/4", 7/8", and 1" candles easily and repeatably.

the process

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1. Melting bismuth-tin alloy.
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2. Casting the base.
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3. Molding walking stick.
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4. Turning brass insert.
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5. Turning aluminum top.
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6. Creating delrin mold for silicone inserts.
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7. Silicone insert molding process.