Here is another use for your small metal tins: turn them into decorative candles to brighten up your space, or even give them as a lovely, original handmade gift!
Rummage through grandma’s cupboard for “antique” iron tins, or choose attractive metal biscuit or coffee tins with elaborate designs, depending on the look and style that suits your décor.
If you have the time and feel like spending a little longer on it, you can paint or decorate your own tins from cans or milk tins.
As for the “raw material”, buy inexpensive candles in various colours from the large department stores, or otherwise buy paraffin and wax from a craft shop.
More specifically, you will need:
metal tins
candles
waxed wicks with a metal base
a saucepan (we suggest not your best one!)
wooden skewers or pencils
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Start by washing the metal tins and drying them well. Tie each wick to its metal base at one end and to a skewer at the other. If a tin is large, place two wicks inside it.
2. Melt the amount of wax you need in the saucepan. BE CAREFUL as you work: wax does not boil, but it is nevertheless a flammable material.
3. Once the wax has melted completely, pour it into the metal tins. Using a wooden skewer, stir the contents of each tin gently to remove any air bubbles.
4. Leave the tins for 24 hours so the candles can set. Trim the excess wick, and your handmade candles are ready!
Photos: www.designspongeonline.com
