A bright solution to a classic problem

Crooked or wobbly candles, dripping wax and crumpled aluminium foil at the bottom of the candlestick. This classic everyday annoyance inspired Camilla and Lars Lindqvist to take matters into their own hands. With their new innovation, Ljusringar, they hope to create the candlestick equivalent of a furniture pad.

The problem of candles that simply refuse to stand straight is probably something most of us have experienced at some point. For Camilla and Lars Lindqvist, it was a large green-painted tray with candle holders that finally became the last straw.

“I was sitting at the table with a new, large candlestick and getting increasingly frustrated because the candles just kept wobbling and wouldn’t fit properly. Eventually, we thought: what if we could come up with a simple solution that fixes this problem once and for all? Surely there must be something better than all those old household tricks?” says Camilla.

Lars has a background in other innovative projects, so developing the very first prototype didn’t take long. That same evening, they were able to test the basic idea right at the kitchen table.

Precision work in silicone

The solution was named Ljusringar. The small ring, made from flame-retardant silicone, slides onto the base of the candle and essentially replaces a whole range of traditional household tricks with one simple product. The friction of the silicone provides a firm grip inside the candlestick, unlike foil or paper, which can easily slip around.

However, getting from the first prototype to the finished product required plenty of experimentation. The height, thickness and textured surface all had to be carefully tested and fine-tuned to provide maximum friction and fit as many different candles and candlesticks as possible.

“We didn’t even know at first that flame-retardant silicone existed, but it was essential for safety. The idea is that you can easily move the ring from one candle to another, and if the candle burns all the way down, there’s no danger. It’s also available in a transparent version, so you can’t see it in glass candlesticks,” says Camilla.

The goal: The candlestick equivalent of a furniture pad

The response at trade fairs such as Formex and among retailers has been very positive. Many customers immediately recognise the problem and are surprised that no one has come up with a solution before.

“The biggest challenge right now is really changing people’s habits and spreading the word so that everyone knows the solution exists,” says Camilla.

The Lindqvists have a clear vision, and it extends far beyond Sweden.

“We want Ljusringar to become for candlesticks what furniture pads are for furniture. If you buy a new candlestick, it should feel completely natural to pick up a pack of Ljusringar as well, to make sure your candles and candlesticks fit perfectly together,” says Lars.

Learning the industry

Although the Lindqvists have plenty of other ideas, they are currently choosing to focus all their energy on their trademark-protected Ljusringar to avoid spreading themselves too thin. They are learning more about the industry every day, and as their resources grow, they are planning both larger and paid collaborations.

They are also already thinking about the next step for the concept.

“There are so many different types of smaller candles too, so we’re already considering developing a smaller version of Ljusringar in the future. That’s the exciting thing about innovation: you never know when the next problem in need of a solution will appear,” says Camilla.

“More innovation to the market!” Lars concludes.

Tips for other innovators

 Dare to take the step and turn your idea into reality. The absolute worst that can happen is that it doesn’t work, and at least you’ll know you tried.
 Seek support when you’re getting started. There are many partners and organisations that can help you along the way. Almi is a great first step if you have an idea you want to develop.
 Make use of today’s technology. You don’t need to have all the answers yourself. Use AI to help you find information and solutions when you encounter challenges.