From the page: The can that yields music, cooking and art
Idea 4
Rustic candle in the can
Candles in repurposed containers were born in colonial American kitchens, where leftover wax was melted down in cans and jars. It works because wax hardens again as it cools, and the can's metal conducts and distributes the flame's heat safely and evenly.
What you need
- A clean, dry condensed milk can
- Leftover used candles or paraffin/vegetable wax in flakes
- A cotton wick (or thick cotton string soaked in oil)
- A small pot for a double boiler and a glass jar
- A wooden spoon or stick for stirring
- Adhesive tape or a clothespin to hold the wick
- Aromatic essence (optional)
How to make it
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1
Clean the inside of the can with alcohol to remove any greasy residue — wax doesn't adhere well to an oily surface and may come loose later.
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2
Melt the leftover wax in a double boiler over low heat, stirring slowly: the indirect heat prevents the wax from overheating and losing its shine.
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3
Glue the base of the wick to the center of the can with a drop of melted wax and secure the top end to a stick resting across the mouth of the can, so it stays straight and centered.
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4
If you want fragrance, mix in the essence away from the heat, when the wax is liquid but not very hot — high heat evaporates the aroma before the finished candle is even burned.
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5
Pour the wax slowly, leaving about a finger's width to the rim, and let it harden on a flat surface; slow cooling prevents cracks and the hole in the center.
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6
Trim the wick, leaving about one centimeter above the wax — a long wick weeps wax and smokes.
Finishing touches
Paint or varnish the outside of the can, tie a jute string or lace with a kraft paper tag to give it a store-bought look. If you gather several small cans at different heights, you create a beautiful set of candles for the table.
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