A method for forming candles according to the invention includes four basic steps: providing a candle core; heating a working area on the outer surface of the candle core such that the working area is pliable; sculpturing a portion of the working area; and reheating the working area with a readily available household heating implement whenever the working area of the candle falls below a desired temperature. A candle core is comprised of multiple inner layers of distinct color and composition, an outer surface preferably having a pliable temperature range of about 120 to 125.degree. Fahrenheit, and a wick extending from a top end and wound into a loop. Because the pliable temperature range of the candle core is relatively low, the candle core need only to be preheated by submerging it a in hot water bath prior to sculpturing. Additionally, the outer surface of the candle core may be reheated anytime during sculpturing using a hair dryer or other readily available household heating source. To facilitate the sculpturing and reheating steps, a sculpturing stand is provided from which the candle core may be suspended by engaging the wick loop with a hook on an elevated member of the sculpturing stand.

A container is provided consisting of a polyethylene terephthalate tray with a polyethylene terephthalate lid bonded, by a novel adhesive, to an upper surface of the tray. The adhesive is coated only onto this upper surface, which surface is in the form of a peripheral flange. The adhesive is free from flow at cooking temperatures of up to about 400.degree.F. and the bond strength at these cooking temperatures is sufficient to prevent leakage from the tray, yet, nonetheless, permit peeling of the lid from the tray without tearing, after cooking.