Making candles with shells can be approached in two main ways: using shells as the candle container or embedding shells within the wax of a larger candle. The method using shells as containers is simpler and commonly done.
This popular method involves transforming beautiful seashells into unique candle holders. You simply pour melted wax directly into cleaned shells to create small, decorative candles perfect for coastal decor or gifts.
Materials You'll Need
- Clean seashells (larger, stable shells work best)
- Candle wax flakes or pellets (soy, paraffin, or beeswax)
- Candle wick (sized appropriately for small candles)
- Wick stickers or a dab of hot glue (optional, to secure wick)
- Pouring pot or a heat-safe tin can
- Small saucepan
- Stirring stick
- Scissors
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to create your seashell candles:
- Prepare Your Shells: Choose shells that sit relatively flat and are large enough to hold a small amount of wax. Clean them thoroughly to remove any sand or debris.
- Prepare the Wax Melting Station: Set up a double boiler system. According to the reference, "Stand your tin in the middle of a small pan and half fill your pan with water. Put the pan on a hob on a low to medium heat..." Add your wax flakes or pellets into the tin or pouring pot.
- Melt the Wax: Leave the pan on the heat "...until all your wax has melted." Stir occasionally with a stick to help it melt evenly.
- Prepare the Wicks: Cut wicks to a length slightly taller than your shell's depth. Secure one end of each wick to the bottom center of the shell using a wick sticker or a tiny dab of melted wax or glue. Hold the top of the wick upright using a wick holder or clothespin placed across the shell's opening.
- Pour the Wax: Once the wax is completely melted, carefully remove the pouring pot from the double boiler (use oven mitts!). "Carefully pour your wax into your seashells making sure you don't let the wax reach the rim." Avoid filling them too full.
- Allow to Harden: Let the wax cool and solidify completely. This can take a few hours depending on the shell size and room temperature.
- Trim the Wick: Once the wax is hard, remove any wick holders and trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the wax surface.
Your seashell candles are now ready!
Method 2: Embedding Shells Inside Candles
Embedding shells means placing them within the wax of a larger container candle or pillar candle. This method is more complex than using shells as containers and requires careful consideration.
Key Considerations for Embedding
Adding objects like shells into a candle can affect how it burns. If you choose this method, keep the following in mind:
- Placement: Shells should be placed well away from the wick to avoid interfering with the flame or melting pool. Position them near the edges of container candles.
- Shell Type: Use clean, dry shells. Porous shells might absorb some wax.
- Impact on Burn: Embedded objects can potentially alter the candle's burn pattern, creating uneven melting or tunneling. Ensure the wick is robust enough for the candle diameter and any inclusions.
- Safety: While most shells are non-flammable, ensuring they are clean and dry is important. Monitor candles with embedded objects carefully while they burn.
Embedding usually involves pouring wax in layers, placing shells after a layer has slightly cooled but is not yet hard, and then pouring subsequent layers. However, due to the potential issues, especially with burning performance, this method is less common for functional candles compared to simply using shells as decorative containers.
