i don't know how else to describe it... anyone know what you add to the melted wax/parafin that gives it that "blooming" effect, or like a snowy sky, or like milk curdliing in tea; some aromatherapy candles have it. i'm not talking about the crystallized look.

It's not an additive. What you do is "whip" the melted wax. To make smooth candles, whip the wax with an egg beater or whisk and pour it into a mold. To make the actual textured candles, wait until the wax is cooled a little (hot, but still liquid and you can touch it without getting burnt). Then whip it and spread it onto a pre-made pillar (or whatever) with a spatula. Just like frosting a cake.

Hope that made SOME sense, and that is the look you want. The candles I described are called "cake candles."

hmm- i used to do that when i made candles in high school in the 70's, when fake-foody looking candles were "in" and i made icecream cones, cupcakes, etc.
but i don't remember them looking like this. but i think maybe you are right; and what i need to do is pour in some whipped wax with some unwhipped; the effect is prettiest when you have the contrast. thanks! i'll report back if this does the trick.

Like these?
http://www.countryporch.com/shop/cake_candles.asp?source=o&key=34