I chose Plaristo as a group Christmas outing this year. Our Danish family have introduced me to the importance of hygge (coziness with loved ones) and light as part of the season of Christmas festivities. And here in Rye, candle making is one of those hygge activities you can do with family and friends (make sure everyone is old enough to cope with the hot wax). Two hours, and you have created the most beautiful candles, remarkably less expensive than hand-made candles you buy elsewhere.
Silvia and N
ick, the owners of Plaristo, are well on their way to building their dream of the best candle shop in the world. As part of that dream, they recently went to Denmark to see how candle-makers have set up facilities for the general public to try themselves. I booked the candle making activity, chose the colours to make, and then visited their wonderful shop on Rye Harbour Road. Plaristo is packed with all things candle, as well as hot drinks on offer.
However, be warned. You will be wanting to browse, and of course chat, leaving barely any time to make the candles. But make sure you do, because this is a slow, careful, methodic, mindful task. You begin by lowering the wick into a hot vat of melted wax, lifting it out, and hanging it to cool down before repeating the process.
Silvia, very patiently, tells you the process. But quickly, my desire to chat meant I failed to concentrate. I was promptly told I was putting my wick in too slowly, and taking it out too fast. Later, Silvia also recognised I was suffering from the ailment “falling in love with my candles” (she claimed this was a common side effect). Translated, my delight as my candles slowly grew in thickness resulted in me hesitating repeatedly in the process and therefore rather uneven and lumpy results. But I really didn’t mind, this is an organic process, highly relaxing. And two hours rushed by with my hot chocolate left untouched.
The family loved it. I can’t wait to go back. And I am already thinking about which colour I want to try next.