Citrus Candles

Make citrus candles such as these in just a few easy steps. Line the space between the candle and container with sliced fruit.

Materials:

premade candle
container
dried-fruit slices
wax chips
coffee can
large pot

Steps:

1. Place a premade candle inside a container that is around a half-inch bigger than the actual candle. Heavy-duty tub plastic containers such a frosting container work great for round candles, while cardboard containers such as milk cartons work best for square candles.

2. Place dried-fruit slices between the actual candle and the container, lining the perimeter. Sliced fruit (oranges, lemons, limes, etc.) can be dried by placing the slices on an iron rack and allowing them to sit in the sun for a few days. They can also be dried in an oven heated to 175 degrees. Keep slices in the oven for a couple of hours, turning periodically. It is important to keep the slices completely dry.

3. Place wax chips (found in craft or grocery stores) in a coffee can, then place the can in a pot containing about an inch of water. Bring the water to a boil. This double-boiling method will melt the wax. If using a candy thermometer, bring the wax to 190 degrees. As an option, you can add food oils to the melted wax to create a scented candle.

4. Pour melted wax into the container, making sure to cover the entire candle and fruit slices--right to where the wick emerges from the actual candle.

5. Allow to cool for 15 minutes, then put the container in the fridge for a few hours, until cool to the touch. Tear off the container to reveal the citrus candle!