There are many ways to craft with sand, but one of my all time favorite is to make a sand candle. What better gift to bring back from the ocean then a sand candle decorated with shells found along the beach?
Using moist sand to create a mold allows for endless shapes and designs. Old candles can be recycled and melted down to form a new candle or paraffin wax can be purchased from the grocery store or craft supply shop. Wicking and candle fragrance can also be found at the craft shop. Color for wax can also be purchased or crayons can be melted for color.
When recycling scented candles combine scents that are compatible. Vanilla and lavender go well together, but I would caution combining citronella, rose and patchouli.
Always follow safety procedures when melting wax. Wax is flammable at 375 degrees, so always melt wax in a double boiler. It is a good idea to keep a bowl of ice water nearby just in case one gets splashed with hot wax.
This is a fun project to do with kids. Allow the kids to find the shells and make the mold, but have an adult melt and pour the candle.
Begin by preparing the sand mold. The sand can be placed in a plastic tub or bucket and moistened with water. The sand should be moist enough to hold its shape if squeezed into a ball with your hand. Too dry the ball will fall apart. Too wet and water will run out.
Form an indentation in the sand. Use a cup or a bowl or your hand. Three or four legs can be added or leave the mold flat on the bottom. Play with the sand until you have a shape and design that is pleasing.
Next embed shells or stones into the sides of the mold adding as many or as few as you like. Cut a piece of wick several inches longer then the center of the mold and insert the wick into the sand. Tie the other end around a stick or a pencil and place across the candle. If the sand mold is fat and wide, more then one wick can be added.
Melt the wax using the double boiler method. When wax is melted add coloring and fragrance. Pour the melted wax slowly into the sand mold. If you want a heavy coating of sand the wax should be between 250 and 275 degrees. For a lighter coating of sand pour the wax at a cooler temperature between 130 and 150 degrees.
As the candle cools an indentation will form around the wick. Reheat the wax and fill the indentation. This sometimes has to be done several times.
Allow the candle to harden several hours before removing from the sand. Brush off any loose sand and trim the wick. Allow the candle to cure for several days before burning.
As with any candle never leave unattended when burning.
