Candle Making Crafts – A Good One to Start with

Feb 03, 2010 in Candle Making Tips

Candles improve the look of a home in many ways. Candle light itself adds warmth, but in addition the candles themselves are a decorative item even when they’re not lit. I’ve found some ideas for ways to decorate candles at Candle Making Crafts. Here’s an idea that will let you create decorative candles from ordinary materials.

There are several good things about this project. One good point is that it is highly adaptable. You completely change to look of the candle by changing the way you decorate it.

Another good point is that it is inexpensive. The raw material is canning jars and votive candles. Even if you buy new canning jars, they're very affordable. Better yet, you probably have some jars at home that you can use for free.

Commercially sold jam often comes in very attractive jars that you can use for this project. Garage sales are another source of inexpensive canning jars.

You'll find inexpensive plain votive candles and glass holders for them at discount stores.

To assemble the finished candle, partially fill the canning jar with decorative material, then place the votive candle holder on top of it. You can also decorate the outside of the jar. For example, you could attach surface decorations, use paint to create patterns or simply wrap it with a bow.

Any number of materials can be used to fill the bottom of the canning jar. Many people use potpourri. This is not only visually attractive, but it adds the aroma of the potpourri as well.

Since you may be using somewhat flammable material in the bottom of the canning jar, it is essential that the votive is inside its own glass holder. Do not use a votive candle or a tea candle without a glass holder.

It is a good idea to not let the decorative material come up above the bottom of the votive holder and to extinguish the candle before it burns completely to the bottom. And as always, never leave the room with a candle burning.

The candle for this project is one that you buy. I suspect you'll probably want to craft your own candles sooner rather than later. A good place to get basic instructions is: How to Make Your Own Candles. Not only will you find great instructions right on that page but you can sign up for a free candle making mini course that's very informative and helpful.

And if your wondering what equipment might be involved in the hobby of candle making, you'll find answers at Candle Making Equipment.

I'm sure you'll find candle making to be a fun and rewarding hobby. I encourage you to give it a try.