Candles are a great addition to any home. Of course the glow of candle light is charming, 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 you can use to create decorative candles from ordinary materials.
There are several good things about this project. For one, you can make any number of variations. By changing the type of decorations you use you can create candles appropriate for any season or occasion.
Another good point is that it is inexpensive. You’re going to use votive candles in canning jars, so there’s no big investment and materials. Even if you buy new canning jars, they’re not very expensive. But you probably won’t have to buy them.
Many jams come in very decorative jars that you can repurpose 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.
The basic idea with this project is to partially fill the canning jar with decorative material and then placing a votive candle within it. The outside of the canning jar can be a decorated as well. Here are some suggestions, you can glue on decorations, paint it or simply wrap it with a bow.
Any number of materials can be used to fill the bottom of the canning jar. A common one is to use potpourri. In addition to being attractive, it adds a pleasant aroma as well.
Since you may be using somewhat flammable material to fill the jar, you need to use a glass votive holder with the candle. Using a candle without a holder creates a fire hazard.
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.
As you’ve noticed, this project uses premade candles. I suspect you’ll probably want to craft your own candles sooner rather than later. You’ll find excellent basic instructions at: 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.
