Guest Author - Benito Lugo
Refinishing Candles
Here is a project that can rejuvenate or add character to some of those old candles you have milling about the home. From time to time we all have candles that we would like to add some accents to, whether it be for fun or to compliment the d�cor of a certain room it is to be placed in. Adding detail to a finished candles can add value and also increase your selling price if you intend on selling them commercially. Although you may be spending a little extra time on each candle I feel it is well worth you effort. Once you become familiar and develop your own techniques it will not take very much time at all. So dive in and get creative with finishing your new and old candles.
Supplies needed:
candle to be refinished
hammer
chisel
carving tools
heat gun
palette knife or small plastic knife
candle wax or old candles
double boiler or slow cooker
wax tint (optional)
cup or scoop to dribbled melted wax
� Take your hammer and chisel to break your old candles or candle wax into small chunks. Melt in the double boiler or slow cooker.
� Shave a little wax tint into the melting wax, the melted wax should be a different color than the candle being refinished.
� Never leave melting wax unattended, there is a risk of fire.
� Use your carving tools to create designs or patterns around the outside of the project candle.
� Use the heat gun to melt and smooth out the cut edges you created with your carving tools. The heat gun will not scorch the surface and melts the edges quickly.
� Fill the carved crevices in the candle with your melted wax.
� Use the heat gun to soften it slightly once the added wax becomes firm. Take a palette knife or plastic knife to smooth out the added wax.
� Using your heat gun also works well for repairing and reshaping candles that have burned unevenly or melted due to being exposed to excess heat. Apply the heat to soften the wax and work the candle back into shape. This is a great way to rejuvenate and restore those candles that may have value.
