Brooke Martin
Candles are a great way to create a cosy atmosphere, but they can be expensive to replace. Fortunately, there are many ways to reuse pillar candles and their wax. You can melt the wax and pour it into a new mould with a wick to create a new candle, or use the leftover wax for other purposes such as waterproofing, art projects, or even to stop a door from squeaking. With a bit of creativity, you can save money and reduce waste by reusing your pillar candles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reuse pillar candle wax to make new candles | Melt the wax, scoop out the wick, and pour the wax into a mould. You can use a Pringles can, a small milk carton, or a silicone ice-cube tray as a mould. |
| Make an air freshener | Cut or break the remaining candle into pieces, put them in an old sock or nylon, and hang them in your closet. |
| Waterproof marker writing | Rub a white candle over writing on a package to repel water. |
| Prevent mould and mildew | Rub white candle wax over shower grout to protect it from mould, mildew, and stains. |
| Stop a door from squeaking | Use candle wax to silence a squeaky door. |
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What You'll Learn
Make new candles using old wax
Making new candles from old pillar candles is a fun and eco-friendly project. Here is a step-by-step guide to making new candles using old wax:
Preparing the Wax
Firstly, gather your old pillar candles and cut them into smaller pieces if necessary, so they fit into your melting pot. It is important to only mix the same type of wax, as different formulations may not blend well. For example, container wax and pillar wax blends should be kept separate. If you are using scented wax, ensure that the combination of aromas will complement each other.
Melting the Wax
Place your wax pieces into a clean melting pot or jug. Fill a saucepan with about 2 inches of water and bring it to a boil. Then, turn off the heat and place the melting pot with the wax into the saucepan. You can also use a double boiler with half an inch of water to ensure any dirt sinks to the bottom, away from the wax. Keep the heat source turned on intermittently to prevent the water from cooling down and adjust it until the water simmers.
Preparing the Wicks
While the wax is melting, prepare your wicks. Cut the wick to the required length, leaving about 2 inches taller than the votive holder. You can purchase wicks and wick tabs from craft stores. Knot one end of the wick and thread it through the wick tab.
Moulding the Candles
Prepare your moulds by ensuring they are heat-compatible. You can use old candle holders, silicone ice-cube trays, or even a Pringles tub. Clean the moulds and ensure they are dry before placing the wick. Use double-sided tape or stickers to secure the wick in place, pulling it tight to ensure it is upright.
Pouring the Wax
Once the wax has fully melted, carefully pour it into your chosen moulds. Leave about half an inch of space below the rim. If you are using a Pringles tub, leave room at the top for a second pour in case sinkholes appear.
Setting and Curing
Let the wax stand until it sets, which may take about an hour. If necessary, pour more wax to even out the centre, stopping a quarter-inch below the rim. Leave your candle to set for 24-48 hours. If using a Pringles tub, peel off the mould and remove any blu tack. Finally, let your new candle cure for one to two weeks before lighting it.
By following these steps, you can create unique, personalised candles while reducing waste and embracing your inner eco-warrior!
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Create an air freshener
If you have a pillar candle that's almost completely gone but you want to keep its scent, you can create an air freshener. Here's how:
Firstly, carefully cut or break the remaining candle into pieces. Then, place the pieces in an old sock or nylon and hang it in your closet. Each time you open the closet door, you'll be greeted by the scent of your candle. This method also works well in cars, provided it isn't too hot outside.
If you're looking for a more long-lasting solution, you can create your own refillable air freshener using fragrance oils or essential oils. This method involves purchasing fragrance oils or essential oils, diluting them with a carrier oil such as dipropylene glycol or perfumer's alcohol, and then using the mixture to refill a small glass bottle or another container of your choice. This option is cost-effective and environmentally friendly, as you can reuse the same container and control the ingredients to ensure they are natural and non-toxic.
You can also create a stovetop air freshener by simmering ingredients such as cinnamon sticks, allspice seeds, lavender blossoms, or lemon peels in a small pan. This method fills your home with a pleasant scent while you're at home, but it is not suitable for continuous use or when you are asleep or away.
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Waterproof surfaces
When burning a pillar candle, it is important to place it on a heat-resistant surface to prevent damage to the surface underneath. Stovetops, granite countertops, and wooden tables and shelves that have been treated to be fire-resistant are all good surfaces to burn pillar candles on. If you are unsure about the safety of a surface, place the candle on a plate or tray to help protect it. Ceramic or glass plates or trays are ideal, as they will help disperse the heat from the candle as it burns.
Pillar candles should be burned on a flat surface, such as a small, flat tray or plate, that extends beyond the circumference of the candle. This ensures that the candle burns evenly and does not drip or tip over. Suitable items to place under your pillar candle include teacup plates, cake stands, ceramic tiles, or coasters.
It is also important to keep the candle away from drafts and flammable items. Burning a candle near an open window or fan can cause the flame to dance, resulting in an uneven burn and soot on the container. Always trim the wick to a quarter-inch before lighting the candle, and ensure the flame remains vertical while lit.
Candle wax can be used to waterproof surfaces. For example, you can rub candle wax over grout to protect it from growing mould, mildew, and other stains. Similarly, you can use a white candle to waterproof writing on your child's school supplies or a package you are sending. Simply rub the wax over the writing, and it will repel water while still allowing you to see through it.
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Make a squeaky door silent
There are many ways to reuse pillar candles. You can melt the leftover wax and use it to make new candles. You can also use the wax to lubricate squeaky door hinges. If you want to make new candles, you can use a Pringles tub as a mould. First, make sure your wax is at 55°C, then add your fragrance and stir gently for 2 minutes. Slowly pour the wax into the mould, leaving room at the top for a second pour. Leave your candle for 24-48 hours, then peel off the Pringles tub. You can also make tea lights using the leftover wax.
Now, here are some ways to make a squeaky door silent using old pillar candles:
Firstly, you need to clean the door hinge to remove any dirt build-up. You can use a bar of soap with a good amount of fat in it, like organic soap, to lubricate the hinges. Simply rub the soap into the hinges and work it in by opening and closing the door.
Another option is to use the wax from your old pillar candles. Candle wax can work better than WD-40 at silencing a squeaky door. Light the candle to soften the wax, then remove the hinge pin from the hinge and grease it with the melted wax before putting it back in place.
You can also use olive oil as a simple solution. A few drops will easily lubricate the hinges. Use a pipette or oil can to apply the olive oil to the hinges to avoid making a mess.
If you are looking for a longer-term solution, you can try using ball bearing hinges. Packing wheel bearing grease into the hinges can keep them silent for years.
Finally, you can use silicone spray on the hinges. Remove the hinge pin, spray it with silicone spray, and wipe away any excess. Silicone spray is widely available, inexpensive, and easy to apply.
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Create art
Pillar candles can be reused to create art in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Paint and Glitter
Use paint to transform plain pillar candles into works of art. You can use a brush or dip the candles in paint to create beautiful designs. Choose colours that match the season or an upcoming holiday. If you want to add some extra sparkle, try dipping your candle in glitter or sprinkling glitter flecks over it. You can also use glitter glue or glitter pens for a more controlled application.
Stamps and Stencils
Stamps and stencils are an easy way to create intricate designs on your candles. Stamps come in a variety of designs, including letters, foliage, and patterns, allowing you to create rustic and vintage decorations. Stencils can be used to trace designs onto your candles with a marker, paintbrush, or knife, making it easier to achieve the perfect pattern.
Natural Elements
Include natural elements such as dried fruit or dried flowers to give your pillar candles an organic and seasonal twist. Dried orange, apple, and pear slices can be easily sourced or made at home and bring a unique spin to your candle designs.
Personalised Candles
Add images of your loved ones to pillar candles to create a personalised display in your home. You can print pictures on transfer paper that will blend into the wax.
Sculptural Shapes
Instead of the traditional cylindrical shape, try experimenting with sculptural shapes for your pillar candles. Bubbles, dewdrops, and swirl moulds can add an artistic touch to your creations.
Wax Type
The type of wax you choose for your pillar candles can also impact their artistic appeal. For example, palm wax has a unique crystalline structure that creates stunning visual effects, making each candle a work of art. Blended waxes allow you to customise the hardness, texture, and performance of your candles, offering versatility in design.
With these ideas in mind, you can reuse pillar candles to create unique and elegant works of art for your home or as gifts.
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