I just love to burn candles. There’s something so warm and romantic about that tiny little flame.
But what do you do with the leftovers? Whether it’s the little bit of wax left over after the wick has gone out, or whether it’s a candle that just refuses to light the way it should (like the ones pictured below)…do you just throw them away?
I’ve been practicing a more economical method of candle recycling for quite some time and thought I’d show it to you. It’s actually become a hobby of mine. I just love turning candle “trash” into new creations!
Here’s what I use…a jar for melting the wax back down, a candle burner ($5 at Wal-Mart, Michaels, or other fine establishments), candle wicks (you can buy these at any craft store), and a nicer jar to hold my new candle. The nicer jar actually used to be a candle! Yes, I recycle the jars, too.
Holding the wick lightly so that it stays centered, pour the melted wax into the jar. Continue holding the wick for a few moments until the wax slightly hardens. Let this sit for at least an hour to cool.
Continue melting wax, pouring it in, and letting it harden until your jar is full. If you use different colors, you’ll have a lovely, layered new candle!
What if you have a small amount of a bunch of different colors? Here’s another method of putting those to good use.
Clean out an empty carton (such as a carton of cream or milk) and place a wick in the bottom. Pour a small amount of melted wax into the bottom to hold the wick into place. Let that cool for a few minutes.
Pour some melted wax (plain white is best) into the carton, letting it work its way around the smaller bits of wax. You might want to tap the carton slightly as you do this to ensure that the wax gets all the way down.
Let the candle sit over night to harden. The next morning, peel off the carton!
Next time you have leftover wax sitting around, don’t just throw it away! Make yourself a new candle creation and enjoy your favorite candles a second time around.
~ Kristin
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Mariel says
Great idea! I love it!
Melissa says
Awesome! What a great idea, and I love that it helps reduce waste. 🙂 Thanks for posting!
terbear287 says
That is the coolest idea ever! I have tons of candles that I don’t want to toss. I am inspired….
JustJules says
Thank you! Great instructions and idea!! Really appreciate it!
Livin it up says
I love candles too! This is a great idea…thanks!!
Stacee Maree says
Very cool, thanks for the idea
Eating in Winnipeg says
oh i used to do this all the time when i was little, i love candles! and it’s a great way to use the wax that didn’t quit get used on the last candle!
Natalie says
Brilliant! Thanks!