Maddie James
Old pillar candles can be reused in a variety of ways. One can melt the wax and reshape it into new candles, or use the wax for other purposes such as waterproofing or scenting. Old candles can also be decorated and repurposed as decorations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Repurpose pillar candles | Cover with twine, raffia, rope, paper, ribbon, bark or paint |
| Melt wax and pour into moulds to make new candles | |
| Melt wax and pour into ice cube trays to make wax discs | |
| Melt wax and pour into small moulds to make scented sachets | |
| Melt wax and pour into egg cartons to make fire starters | |
| Use wax to waterproof marker writing | |
| Use wax to prevent mould, mildew and stains in the shower | |
| Use wax to stop drawers from sticking | |
| Use wax to stop doors from squeaking |
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What You'll Learn
Melt wax to make new candles
If you have old pillar candles lying around, you can melt the remaining wax and use it to make new candles. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Preparing the Wax
First, you need to remove the wax from your old candles. You can do this by using a double boiler, which is a safe and effective method. Place the jar or candle holder in the double boiler and heat until the wax is completely melted. Then, scrape out the old wax and combine different scents if desired. Remember to never melt wax directly over a stove, as it can be dangerous. Alternatively, you can use a wax melter, which is an appliance specifically designed for melting wax and allows for easy pouring. If you don't have a wax melter, you can preheat your oven to the lowest temperature and place the jar inside, but always remove any labels or stickers first.
Creating the Wick
Once you have your melted wax ready, it's time to prepare the wick for your new candle. Cut a piece of wicking that is 2 inches taller than your chosen votive holder or container. You can find wicking at craft stores. Knot one end of the wicking and thread it through a wick tab, which can also be purchased from craft stores. Then, tie the free end of the wicking around a wooden skewer.
Making the Candle
Dip the knotted end of the wicking into the melted wax to coat it. Remove the excess wax and press the wick tab to the bottom of your chosen container. Rest the skewer across the rim of the container so that the wick is centred. Now, carefully pour the melted wax into your container, stopping about half an inch below the rim. Allow the wax to set, which usually takes about an hour. To create an even surface, pour more wax into the centre until it's a quarter of an inch below the rim.
Additional Tips
If you're using scented wax, be mindful of the combination of aromas to ensure they complement each other. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to enhance the fragrance. If you're reusing a glass jar, be cautious as repeated heating can cause cracks or weaken the glass. Always take safety precautions when melting wax, including wearing protective gear and having a fire extinguisher nearby.
By following these steps, you can create new candles from your old pillar candles, giving them a fresh lease of life!
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Use wax to waterproof surfaces
Old pillar candles can be used to waterproof surfaces. Here are some ways to do this:
Using Wax Discs
Old pillar candles can be melted down and turned into wax discs, which can then be used for waterproofing. To do this, scrape out the old wax and place it in a double boiler. Heat the wax until it is completely melted, then carefully pour it into an ice cube tray and place it in the freezer. Once the wax hardens, pop out the wax discs. These discs can be used to waterproof surfaces by rubbing them onto the desired surface.
Waterproofing Fabric
Candle wax, particularly paraffin wax, can be used to waterproof fabrics, especially those with a dense weave such as cotton and linen. You can grate the wax onto the fabric and then melt it on with an iron or hairdryer. Alternatively, you can mix beeswax with linseed oil (in a 1:4 ratio) and heat it until it melts, then coat the fabric and let it set for 24 hours.
Waterproofing Wood and Paper
Wax is also effective at waterproofing porous surfaces such as wood and paper. You can use the melted wax from your old pillar candles to treat these surfaces and protect them from water damage. Simply apply the melted wax to the surface and allow it to dry.
Using Commercial Wax Products
If you're looking for a more specialized product, there are commercial wax bars designed specifically for waterproofing, such as Otter Wax. These products are ideal for outdoor gear and can be used on jackets, bags, hats, and tents. They are easy to use and create a durable, water-repellent coating.
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Create wax air fresheners
Creating wax air fresheners is a fun and creative way to repurpose old pillar candles and keep your home smelling amazing. You can make scented wax sachets or tablets, which are perfect for hanging in closets, drawers, cars, or anywhere you want to add a touch of freshness. Here's a step-by-step guide to making your own wax air fresheners:
Step 1: Choose Your Wax
For wax air fresheners, it is recommended to use natural waxes such as soy wax or beeswax. Soy wax is a popular choice due to its clean-burning properties, pleasant off-white colour, and soft texture. However, if you want your air fresheners to hold their shape better, you can add some beeswax to the soy wax mixture as it is harder.
Step 2: Melt the Wax
To melt the wax, set up a double boiler by filling a saucepan with about 2 inches (5 cm) of water and bringing it to a mild simmer. Place your wax flakes and stearic acid in a wax melting pot or heat-resistant measuring cup, and then place it in the warm water bath until the wax is completely melted. Stir occasionally to facilitate the melting process.
Step 3: Add Scents and Decorations
This is where you can get creative and customise your wax air fresheners. You can add essential oils, fragrance oils, or scented decorations like cinnamon sticks, star anise, dried orange slices, or cinnamon bark. If you have multiple old candles with different scents, you can even combine them to create unique fragrances. Just make sure to let the wax cool down to around 120°F before adding any decorations that may melt or transfer colour.
Step 4: Pour into Moulds and Set
Once you're happy with your scent and decorations, it's time to pour the wax into moulds. You can use specialty wax air freshener moulds, silicone moulds, or even cookie cutters. Allow the wax to set fully, which usually takes about 3 to 4 hours.
Step 5: Remove from Moulds and String
After the wax has set, carefully remove the air fresheners from the moulds by gently pushing up on the bottom of the mould and lifting them out. Then, cut a piece of twine or ribbon, about 8 to 10 inches long, and string it through each wax air freshener, tying a knot to secure it.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Fresh Scents!
Your DIY wax air fresheners are now ready to use! Hang them in your desired locations and enjoy the beautiful scents they release. Wax air fresheners work best in small, enclosed spaces where the scent can diffuse effectively. You can also place them in decorative bowls or use them as charming decorative accents.
Remember, if the scent fades over time, you can always remelt the wax, add new fragrances, and create new air fresheners. Wax air fresheners are a fun, sustainable, and budget-friendly project that you can enjoy making and gifting to your friends and family.
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Cover in twine, rope or raffia
Old pillar candles can be given a trendy, crafty makeover by covering them in twine, rope, or raffia. This is a great way to disguise ugly candles or those that are dented, scratched, or an unappealing colour.
To cover your pillar candles in twine, rope, or raffia, start by choosing a candle that is wide enough for the wick to burn down the centre, leaving an outer wax shell. This is important for safety reasons, as twine, rope, and raffia are flammable. Never leave a candle burning without supervision.
Next, apply hot glue to the bottom of the candle and attach the twine, rope, or raffia in sections, turning the candle as you go. Cover as much or as little of the candle as you like, but remember to limit the crafty covering to the candle's sides.
You can also use jute twine and furniture webbing to give your candles a beachy makeover.
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Use to stop drawers sticking
Old pillar candles can be used to stop drawers from sticking. This is a handy trick to fix sticky drawers without spending money. The process is simple and takes just a few minutes.
Firstly, turn your drawer upside down. Then, rub a paraffin or beeswax candle onto the slide on the bottom of the drawer. Apply enough pressure to leave some residue, as this will help prevent sticking. Next, rub the candle onto the track inside the dresser or cabinet. Finally, slide the drawer back into place.
This method works because the wax acts as a lubricant, reducing the friction between the wood surfaces. It is particularly useful for older cabinets or solid wood vintage furniture that use wood-on-wood sliding mechanisms.
If you don't have a candle, you can also use bar soap or paraffin wax to achieve a similar effect. Simply repeat the process, rubbing the soap or wax onto the contact areas of the drawer and track.
By using this trick, you can keep your drawers gliding smoothly and give new life to your old pillar candles.
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Frequently asked questions
Old pillar candles can be reused in many ways. You can melt the wax and reshape it into new candles, wax melts, or scented sachets. Alternatively, you can get creative and give them a makeover by covering them with twine, raffia, rope, paper, ribbon, bark, or paint.
First, collect your old candle pieces and melt the wax using a double boiler or two old saucepans. Place the wax chunks in the top part of the double boiler or in an old can inside a larger pot filled with water. Once the wax is melted, remove the old wicks and pour the liquid wax into a mold. Let it cool, then trim the wick and your new candle is ready!
You can use a variety of glass or ceramic objects as molds for your new candles. Shot glasses, sake cups, coffee mugs, old punch bowls, and thick canning jars are all great options. Just remember to prepare the mold with a thin layer of cooking spray or wax release spray to easily remove the candle once it's cool.
While it is possible to mix different types of wax, it is generally not recommended as it can result in a poor-looking and poor-burning candle. If you do mix different types of wax, try to use waxes that are similar in scent and color to achieve a more pleasant result.
Yes, there are several other clever ways to repurpose old pillar candles around the house. You can use them to:
- Stop a door from squeaking
- Lubricate sticking drawers or zippers
- Prevent mould and mildew in the shower by rubbing wax between tiles
- Waterproof writing on packages or school supplies
