Make your own candles to decorate your home or delight as a gift.



You'll need:
Moulds (aluminium cans or milk cartons may be used)
Tin snips for cans, scissors for cartons
Nails
Hammer (optional)
Blu-Tack
Cooking oil spray
Paraffin wax
Stearic acid
Wicking
Skewers
Essential oils
Candle dye
Electric stove (not gas)
Old double boiler
Protective gloves
Old teapot or similar container

Here's how:

1. Remove the tops (and rims) from the cans and milk cartons; wash and dry them thoroughly. Use a nail to punch a hole in the base of each.

2. Spray cooking oil spray into each mould.

3. Melt wax and stearic acid, in a ratio of 10:1, in a double boiler. The wax will take 10 to 15 minutes to melt; it should reach a temperature between 85 and 95C. Keep an eye on the wax while it's melting and do not leave the room.

4. Once the wax has melted, add some essential oil, a few drops or as desired; add the dye a few drops at a time until you achieve the colour you want.

5. To make a wick, tie one end of a length of wicking to a skewer. Place the skewer across the top of a mould. Push the other end of the wicking through the hole in the base of the mould; pull taut. Use Blu-Tack to secure the wicking and seal the hole in the base. Repeat with other moulds. Caution: Hot wax can be dangerous. Very carefully pour the hot wax into the teapot; then pour into the moulds and leave to cool. As the candles cool, top them up with a little more melted wax, as needed.

6. When the wax is set, remove the skewers and moulds, trim the wicks.

Tips when making candles:
Keep a fire blanket or extinguisher close at hand.
Don't leave the wax unattended while melting it.
Never splash water into hot wax.

Source: Better Homes and Gardens June 1996