How to Make Candles Using Natural “Jars”: Lemon Skins, Coconut Shells, and More
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Making candles with natural “jars” is a sustainable and creative way to craft unique candles that celebrate the beauty of nature. From lemon skins and coconut shells to oyster shells and pine cones, these natural containers offer charm and character while reducing waste. Perfect for gifting, home decor, or simply experimenting with new materials, this guide will walk you through how to create candles using these stunning natural “jars.”
Why Use Natural “Jars” for Candles?
- Sustainable: Repurposing items like fruit peels, shells, and other natural materials minimizes waste.
- Beautiful and Unique: Natural shapes and textures add a rustic, artistic touch to your candles.
- Budget-Friendly: Skip buying traditional jars—your kitchen or a walk on the beach might already have what you need!
- Fun and Creative: Perfect for trying new designs and experimenting with scents and decorations.
Natural “Jar” Ideas
1. Fruits and Vegetables
- Lemon or Orange Skins: Halved and hollowed out, citrus peels bring a fresh, vibrant aesthetic and pair beautifully with citrus-scented candles.
- Coconut Shells: Cleaned and polished coconut halves make sturdy, earthy containers.
- Avocado Skins: Their natural bowl shape is perfect for small, minimalist candles.
- Pomegranate Halves: Hollowed-out pomegranates offer a bold, textured look.
- Pumpkin Rinds: Small pumpkin halves or gourds are excellent for autumn-themed candles.
2. Natural Shells
- Oyster Shells: Cleaned and dried, these bring an elegant coastal vibe.
- Clam Shells: Wide and shallow, perfect for small decorative candles.
- Scallop Shells: Their ridged texture makes them visually striking.
- Sea Urchin Shells: Delicate and textured for an intricate design.
3. Plant-Based Materials
- Bamboo Stalks: Short segments of bamboo create sleek, minimalist candles.
- Driftwood: Hollowed-out driftwood pieces add a rustic, natural touch.
- Large Dried Leaves: Banana or magnolia leaves can act as molds for floating candles.
4. Other Unique Options
- Eggshells: Cleaned and dried for charming mini candles.
- Pine Cones: Fill the spaces between the layers with wax for a whimsical, rustic candle.
- Rock Cavities: Naturally hollowed stones bring a raw, earthy aesthetic.
- Cinnamon Stick Bundles: Bind sticks into a circular holder for aromatic candles.
What You’ll Need
- Wax: Soy wax, beeswax, or a blend is best for these projects.
- Wicks: Pre-waxed cotton wicks or wooden wicks.
- Fragrance Oils: Optional, but matching scents to your “jars” (e.g., citrus for lemon skins) adds a cohesive touch.
- Natural “Jars”: Choose from the list above.
- Double Boiler: For melting the wax.
- Glue or Wick Stickers: To secure the wick in place.
- Decorative Add-Ons: Dried flowers, herbs, or glitter for customization.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Natural Candle “Jars”
1. Prepare Your Workspace
- Lay down parchment paper or newspaper to catch spills.
- Arrange your natural jars securely on a flat surface. Stabilize uneven materials like shells with modeling clay or small dishes.
2. Attach the Wicks
- Use glue or wick stickers to attach the wick to the base of your natural jar.
- Ensure the wick is centered. Use a skewer or wick holder to keep it upright during pouring.
3. Prepare and Clean the “Jars”
- Lemon or Orange Skins: Cut the fruit in half, scoop out the flesh, and pat dry.
- Coconut Shells: Sand and polish if needed, and ensure they are clean and dry.
- Oyster or Clam Shells: Wash thoroughly with soap and water, then dry completely.
- Eggshells or Pine Cones: Gently clean and remove any dirt or residue.
4. Melt the Wax
- Melt the wax in a double boiler over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Let the wax cool slightly (around 60°C for soy wax) before adding fragrance oil or dyes.
5. Add Fragrance and Decorations
- Stir in a few drops of fragrance oil for a lovely scent.
- Place dried lavender, petals, or herbs into the natural jars before pouring the wax for a decorative touch.
6. Pour the Wax
- Slowly pour the melted wax into your natural jars, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top.
- Ensure the wick remains centered as you pour.
7. Let the Candles Set
- Allow the candles to cool and harden at room temperature for several hours.
- Once hardened, trim the wick to about 1 cm before lighting.
Tips for Success
- Stabilize Uneven Jars: Use modeling clay or small bowls to level out items like shells or citrus peels.
- Seal Porous Surfaces: For materials like coconut shells or stones, apply a clear sealant to prevent wax seepage.
- Custom Scents: Match the scent to the jar (e.g., coconut and vanilla for coconut shells, lavender for oyster shells).
- Get Creative: Layer different wax colors or add glitter for an extra wow factor.
Why You’ll Love These Candles
- Eco-Friendly: A sustainable way to repurpose natural materials.
- One-of-a-Kind: Each candle is unique, thanks to the natural shapes and textures.
- Decorative and Functional: Perfect as gifts, decor, or even party favors.
Conclusion
Natural “jars” like lemon skins, coconut shells, and oyster shells add a beautiful, eco-conscious twist to candle-making. They’re a creative way to repurpose natural materials while making unique and eye-catching candles.
Ready to give it a try? Gather your materials and let your creativity shine! Don’t forget to share your creations with us—we’d love to see how you bring nature into your candle-making projects. Happy crafting!