TIPical Mary Ellen host Mary Ellen Pinkham demonstrates how to create an aromatherapy candle.
Materials:
candlewicks (available at craft stores)
mold--a package of small paper cups or a frozen juice container will work for this
1/3 lb. beeswax (available at craft stores)
1 lb. paraffin (available at craft stores)
double boiler
cooking thermometer
packet of crayons
essential oils (available at bath shops)
* Note: Get creative and try carving out a lemon as a mold for the candle. Just cut the lemon lengthwise down the middle, and pour wax into the center.
Steps:
- Prepare the mold by putting the wick inside. To do this, thread a piece of candlewick through a hole at the bottom of the mold, and seal around the wick by placing putty around it. To make sure the wick stays in place, try this handy tip: Wind the excess wick around a pencil, and rest the pencil on top of the mold.
- Melt beeswax and paraffin in a double boiler. Caution: Don't exceed 180 degrees in wax temperature, and never leave melted wax unattended.
- To add color to the candle, you can use dyes or add shavings of crayon to the melted wax. Using a carrot peeler will make this easier. Add a little at a time to get the tone you want, and be careful not to overdo it, or your candles will take on the smell of a crayon.
- To make it an aromatherapy candle, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, and blend.
- Now that the mixture is ready, pour it into the molds.
- Trim your wicks to 1/4 inch.
