Happy Friday, everyone! If you are looking for unique summer décor to compliment the beautiful warm weather we are getting in Toronto, then this creative oyster shell candle project may be just perfect. The only prep work needed is indulgence in a delightful seafood meal with family/friends, or 4-6 saved oyster shell halves. Once the candles are complete, they'll make festive beachy décor around the home. These candles are recommended for indoor use only. Oyster shells are shallow in depth and the candles are easier to manage indoors with soft air flow. If you have left over materials from the eco-friendly Easter candles we created in April they will come in handy. And as always, before you start, you can light one of our signature scented candles to help inspire your project!
What you need:
- 4-6 oyster shell halves (three entire oysters)
- .5 lbs of natural wax
- 4-6 cotton core wicks (depending on how many candles you wish to create)
- 4-6 glue dots or glue gun
- 1 large bowl
- 1 stainless steel melting pot
- rubber gloves
- scrubber
- paper towel
Getting your vessels ready:
- Take your oyster shells and submerge them in a bowl of warm water. Use antibacterial soap to clean them thoroughly with a scrubber, making sure to remove any meat or membrane. Wearing rubber gloves will make it easier to handle the rough exteriors. Rinse well.
- Lay your shells upside down on a piece of paper towel to dry.
- Measure and cut the cotton core wicks so that they are a few mm taller than the vessels when placed inside.
- Stick the glue dots under each wick tab and secure the wick to the deepest bottom of each shell. If you don't have dots, you can use a glue gun. Your wicks may be off-centered as oyster shells tend to be asymmetric. That is OK as long your wicks set straight once the wax have been poured. When done, set your vessels aside.
Wax Preparation:
- Place the candle melting pot on the stove and set heat on high.
- Measure for .5 lbs of natural wax and place them into the pot. Wait for wax to melt, stirring continuously in the process. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label regarding the wax’s melting point.
Finishing off your Oyster Shell Candles:
- Once wax has melted, lower the heat and pour the wax into each shell, filling 2/3 of each vessel (oyster shells tend to have uneven edges - take notice of this while pouring).
- Set your creations aside and wait for wax to harden (typically takes 24 hours).
- Once your candles are set, take them to decorate your favourite table space. Light and enjoy!
Enjoy your unique candles and let the beachy vibes run! Don't forget to clean your oyster shells and drop them into your organics bin post-usage. Feel free to leave us a message on IG, or send an email to info@s1xborncandle.com if you have questions!