eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How to Recycle Votive Candles

Contributor
By Grant McKenzie
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Votive candles give off a lot of scent compared to their size, especially when burned in proper votive holders. Many times, however, the wick on the votive will burn out or drown itself out before all the wax is gone. Some will leave a small residue, but others leave behind large lumps. With a few items found in most major craft stores, you can recycle this excess wax to create your own votive candles.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Scrape the excess wax from your votive holders. Remove as much of the wick and wick tab as possible. Store in a plastic storage container labeled with the color and scent. This will keep the scent from dissipating too much while in storage.

  2. Step 2

    Stick a pre-tabbed wire-core wick to the bottom of the votive mold with a small bit of wax adhesive, which is sometimes called "tacky wax." Center the tab.

  3. Step 3

    Place the wax in a melting pitcher or old saucepan once you have saved enough to make a new candle. You should have at least 10 percent more wax than a brand new votive, by weight. Mix colors and scents that are compatible or just use a single color and scent combination.

  4. Step 4

    Melt the wax on low heat. Once all the wax is completely liquefied, carefully fill the votive mold. You should still have wax remaining. Adjust the wick gently to center it.

  5. Step 5

    Check the wick every few minutes to ensure it is still centered. When the votive cools, a well will form as the wax contracts. Re-melt the remaining wax and fill the well. Repeat until the top of the votive remains level as it cools.

  6. Step 6

    Cool the candle completely and then gently tug the wick to remove the candle from the mold. If it does not release easily, do not pull harder. Place the candle in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes instead. This should contract the wax enough that the candle falls out easily.

Tips & Warnings
  • Clean the mold with mold cleaner after each use to extend its life and help prevent sticking.
  • Do not use the melting pot or saucepan for any purpose other than candle making.
  • Do not melt the wax over an open flame. Wax is flammable in liquid form.
Subscribe

Post a Comment

Post a Comment

Related Ads

  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This
Tags
Get Free Hobbies, Games & Toys Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License. † requires javascript

eHow Home and Garden
eHow_eHow Home and Garden