Homemade candles

Homemade candles light the home and heart from creation to use.

Homemade candles are now sometimes dismissed by those who do not understand the tradition and custom as antiquated or “country.” But to those who are familiar with its appeal and unique aspects, handmade candles are the perfect activity to pass time, bring family together, and literally warm others’ hearts with the gift of homemade candles.

Even the youngest of children can help make homemade candles through simple rolled beeswax examples. Many candle companies offer sheets of beeswax that can be custom-cut by you or your children at home. After cutting into triangles, simply place a wick at the edge of the beeswax piece and roll. You’ll have tons of candles in no time, and they smell wonderful without needing the addition of messy oils! They’re attractive to the eye and can be the perfect addition to a homemade gift basket for teachers at the end of the school year or during the holiday season. Just place your homemade candles, some honey, and home-baked cornbread in a basket, wrap with a pretty dish towel, and watch the teacher’s face light up.

Other simple homemade candles kids can help with include sand candles. Place handfuls of wet sand into a deep container, then let your kids dig out a cavity in fun shapes. They can even make “jeweled” handmade candles by lightly sticking rocks, rhinestones, or other elements into the sand. Force a wick into the sand and allow it to stand straight up through the center. Most candle companies offer pre-colored and pre-scented wax, so you should be able to simply melt the wax in the microwave or on the stovetop, then pour it into the sand cavity. After it cools, flip the container upside-down, let the sand fall away, and see what you have!

Homemade candles don’t need to present a safety hazard for kids’ craft times. With a little creativity and education, you can make a wide variety of candle products with the help of your children.