the top of the red spikes show the largest spread recorded for each candle. the sides are 1 3/4" thick and are painted white. sure...why not make a 29 year old your starter when he has only shown he may be able to do that in the last few months. shop snow goggles.. it is definitely worth the money. god knows you need all the help you can find. problems can arise when your hardware device is too old or not supported any longer. for those times when you have to pack light, this single travel hammock would be ideal. 