Wooden dough bowls hold a centuries-old legacy, once cherished for their utilitarian role in kneading dough. This tradition finds its roots in ancient civilizations, where bread-making held daily significance. These early bowls, hand-carved from a single piece of wood, featured a smooth, concave interior, embodying the essence of hygge - the Danish concept of cozy contentment.
In Medieval Europe, these bowls were indispensable in kitchens, where they facilitated the mixing and kneading of dough for various bread types—a dietary staple for many. As European settlers journeyed to North America, they brought this practice with them. European bowls typically featured handles on either end, while American variants had minimal or no handles.
Crafted from diverse woods based on regional availability, each culture developed its unique carving and shaping techniques. However, with modern kitchen equipment's rise, the practical use of these bowls dwindled. Yet, their aesthetic allure and rustic charm sparked a transition from functional tools to decorative pieces, invoking the spirit of hygge - finding joy in simple pleasures.
Today, these bowls adorn homes as versatile centerpieces, serving vessels, and even candle containers, encapsulating the essence of hygge. Many are lovingly handcrafted by skilled artisans, their rustic allure complementing both traditional and modern interiors. The surge in popularity of farmhouse and rustic-themed decor has led to a resurgence in their use, with a wide array
Concerns often arise, particularly with larger candles, about the safety of using dough bowls in this manner. When properly crafted and used responsibly, dough bowl candles are safe, as the open flame only interacts with the candle's wick and wax, not the wooden vessel.
To ensure safe burning, follow these guidelines:
- Regularly inspect for cracks or damage.
- Place on a stable, heat-resistant surface, away from flammable materials and drafts.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Ensure an initial wick height of no more than 1/4 inch.
- Ensure a safe flame height of around 1 to 1.5 inches for controlled burning with minimal smoke and soot.
- Trim the wick before relighting, keeping it at about 1/4 inch for cotton wicks and 1/8 inch for wooden wicks. Remove any trimmings or debris before relighting.
- Supervise while burning, never leaving a candle unattended.
- Avoid extended burning (more than a four hours) to prevent overheating.
- Use a snuffer or tool to extinguish the flame rather than blowing it out.
- Store away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
While these precautions minimize risks, always exercise caution when using any type of candle, including those in wooden dough bowls. These bowls have transitioned from functional tools to cherished decor, celebrating the enduring beauty of craftsmanship across changing times, all while embracing the cozy spirit of hygge.
Shop for our Czech Bead Embellised Dough Bowl Candles in our Fall Seasonal Treasures Collection.