How to Make Candle Holders With Pressed Sugar
If you are using a candle that is not a jar candle, you will need a candle holder to place the candle in. Candle holders help prevent fires while adding a decorative touch to your candle. Although you can purchase candle holders at home stores and gift shops, making your own candle holder gives your candle display a distinctive look. If you want to make your own candle holder, one medium to try is pressed sugar. Pressed sugar candle holders are simple and inexpensive to make.
Instructions
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1
Mix 4 cups white granulated sugar and 8 tsp. water together in a large bowl. Use your hands to mix the two ingredients together. You want to get the sugar wet, but not watery. If you find your sugar is not absorbing the water, add a little more sugar. If you find the sugar is still dry, add more water. Your goal is to have a mixture that will allow you to form a ball. If you plan on making a large candle holder, use more sugar and water.
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2
Transfer your damp sugar mixture into a mold of your choosing. You can use any container you would like as your mold. For example, you can use a store-bought mold from a craft store, a small plastic food storage container or a small glass bowl. The important thing is that the mold is as large at the mouth as the widest part of the container. You will want to not only be able to remove your pressed-sugar candle holder, but you will also want an opening at the top of the candle holder so that there is enough oxygen to prevent extinguishing your candle.
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3
Use your hands to press the sugar against the sides and bottom of your mold, forming a well in the center of the mold. This is where you will place the candle. Make sure the sugar is no thinner than 1/2 inch on the bottom and sides of the mold. Use as much pressure as you can to press the sugar together. Smooth the inside of the mold so that the well is not lumpy. You can use your hands for this, or you can use a glass. Using a glass will allow you press the sugar into a compact state and smooth the sides and edges of the well as you go.
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4
Turn the mold upside down and lightly tap it on the counter to remove the pressed sugar from it. If necessary, carefully pull the edges of the mold back, assuming you used a plastic container; this will allow you to remove your candle holder.
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Leave the candle holder on the counter for a minimum of 24 hours to dry completely.
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Place your candle in the center of the candle holder to finish your piece.
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Tips & Warnings
This project is best for tea lights and votive candles.
To prevent the pressed sugar from melting, do not use votive candles, which completely melt to liquid when they burn. Instead, choose a candle that will maintain its shape while burning.
References
- Photo Credit cristal-glass sugar-bowl and white sugar image by Maria Brzostowska from Fotolia.com
