Wax and Bubbles

Still looking for a last minute Christmas gift idea? Why not make one? Here is a quick and painless way of making soy-candles and it only takes about 15 minutes.

But first, here are some facts about soy wax:

• It’s biodegradeable.

• It’s sustainable.

• It provides a longer burn without a soot buildup.

• You can clean it up with soap and water, eliminating the need for solvents.

• It’s made from 100% natural soybeans.

Materials needed:

Recycled glassware such as Mason jars, candy dishes, thrift-store cups, salsa and jam jars. (choose containers that are less than 4″ in diameter.)

1 package braided wick (size-appropriate for chosen chandle containers. Incorporate alternative fibers by using hemp wicks.)

Soda-can tab

Tape

Pencil or pen

Melting pot or old cooking pot that you’re no longer using for food

Soy wax flakes (can be found at any healthfood store)

Craft or candy thermometer (optional)

Cinnamon, peppermint or other essential oil

Biodegradeable cotton ribbon (optional)

Hot glue gun and glue

1. Cut a section of braided wick a few inches longer than the depth of your chosen glasswater container. Tie an end of the wick to a coda can tab. To stabilize the wick, add a dab of hot glue to the bottom of the tab, then affix tab to the bottom of the container. Wrap top of wick around a pencil or pen a few times and tape it down temporarily. Set aside. Repeat process for additional candles.

2. In a pot over medium heat, melt about 1 lb. of the soy flakes per 1-2 medium0sized candles. Stir continuously until the soy wax melts to about 155 degreeds. Once it’s completely liquedied, remove from the head and let cool for a few minutes, continuing to stir.

3. Once the temperature has dropped about 5 degrees, add 10-20 drops of essential oil of your liking and mix well. Soy wax is easy to work with so you can get by without using a thermometer.

4. Pour liquid wax into containers, leaving an inch or two of space at the top. Let dry overnight. The set soy candles wax should look smooth and creamy-white.

5. Remove tape and pencil from the wick. Leaving about 1″ of exposed wick, snip off excess.

6. If you’re giving these candles as gifts, add a ribbon and tie in a fancy bow. Use hot glue to hold the ribbon on the container in place.

**Time is running low on getting those Christmas cards out in the mail before the morning of Santa comes. Over at Artists Passion, Wendy Withers has some ideas on Christmas cards to help give you the push you need to get them done, posted and out the door. Read the ideas here.**
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WAX AND BUBBLES PRODUCT SHOWCASE:

A Cheerful Giver: Keepers Of The Light Jar Candles.