Healing Whole: 2019 Take a Break: August Holiday Gifts to Start Now: Candles

Wednesday, August 7, 2019

2019 Take a Break: August Holiday Gifts to Start Now: Candles

The first Wednesday in August is our annual “gifts to start now for holiday giving.” At the end of this post are links to previous holiday gifts to start now.

Capture the warmth of the summer sun by making candles, which place a part in many of the Winter Solstice traditions.

Candle basics: You’ll need a dedicated double boiler or can make one by using a clean tin can and an old pot. The wax is put into the tin can and placed in a pot of water. Note that water should be at such a level that when it boils, about an inch in the bottom, so it wont bubble into the melting wax. Keep the tin as centered as much as possible.

You can repurpose candles or buy wax at your local craft store or even hardware store. Beeswax and soy however are sold at craft stores or on line. While you can purchase wicks, you can make your own using cotton string.

It’s worth noting that lard, Crisco and tallow can all be manufactured into candles. Yes, the various kids science experiments show that Crisco can candles can burn for up to 66 hours. Tallow as well as lard have been used for centuries to make candles. Living in a farming community, people still make candles by melting the “fat” down. Coconut oil can also be used, but it’s best to mix with another wax since it melts easily when temps go up.

While many videos and on-line resources add scents, because of allergies and smell sensitivities I don’t recommend them. When it comes to color, old broken crayons work just fine. Just remember to peel off the wrapper.

Finally, there are many many options you can choose for candle holders-glass jars, tea cups and mugs (sprinkle some nutmeg or cinnamon while it cools for a unique look), milk cartons and even sand. August is the perfect time to check out local thrift stores and yard sales to see what can be re purposed to hold a candle

No Wax Candle using Crisco: So the fascinating thing about Crisco is that it’s made from soy and palm oil. You can make this candle in the microwave. If you want to make your own wick, just dip cotton string and tie it off with a tiny metal nut.