How to Decorate a Candle Using Dried Leaves or Flowers

Make a plain candle unique with this easy trick.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Brushes
• Small Seashells
• Candles
• Dried Flowers
• Pebbles
• Dried Herbs
• Baking Soda
• Clear Paraffin Waxes
• Aprons
• Candy Thermometer
• Double Boilers
• Tongs
• Fire Extinguishers

1. Use any candle as your base. Light colors usually work better, but you are certainly not limited to them.

2. Arrange the objects you want to add to the candle. Dried flowers, herbs, and leaves are ideal.

3. Put a chunk of clear wax into the top of a double boiler and set the heat on high.

4. Stir frequently.

5. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature of the wax. The melting point of paraffin is about 125 degrees F.

6. Turn off the heat when the paraffin reaches 180 degrees F.

7. Dip a paintbrush into the hot wax and then dab a bit of wax onto the candle.

8. Press the flower, herb or other decoration onto the spot of wax, which will hold it in place.

9. Brush a thin coat of wax over each item as you attach it.

10. Dip the entire candle (hold the wick with tongs or pliers if necessary) into the hot wax briefly.

11. Allow it to cool and voilà!

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that anything green (still containing chlorophyll) may not withstand the heat and might turn soggy and brown.

• Be sure that small children and pets are kept out of the candle-making area.

• Don't pour wax down your sink - it will cool there and plug up the pipe.

• Wax is flammable at high temperatures and should never be left unattended.

• Use a fire extinguisher or baking soda rather than water if you have a wax fire.

• Paraffin wax will catch fire at 375 degrees F. Flash points for other types of wax vary.