Oyster Shell Candles
02/06/16
Why set around tea lights when you can have candles in oyster shells? Oyster shell candles are the perfect piece of coastal décor and make an easy gift. After seeing these for sale and realizing we could do this at home (while using up some shells from our oyster roast), we gathered our supplies and had candles in under an hour. Here are the steps we followed to put those old shells to good use:
Step 1: Prep your Oyster Shells- [Optional, throw a fabulous oyster roast in order to get shells] Choose oyster shells large enough and deep enough to hold wax. Then thoroughly clean your oyster shells. I used dish soap and a tiny bit of bleach to get rid of the lingering smells. Let them dry completely.
Step 2: Gather Your Supplies- You will need:
-Clean dry oyster shells
-Wicks
-Wax
-Double boiler
-Thermometer
-Disposable stirrer (wood skewers are perfect)
-Fragrance
You can find a candle-making starter kit at most craft stores with everything you need.
Step 3: Set the Wicks- Place them in the lowest part of the oyster shell for maximum burning time.
Step 4: Pour Yourself a Beverage- Optional, but it definitely made watching wax melt more fun.
Step 5: Melt the Wax- Break the wax into small pieces for easier melting. Melt it in a double boiler using a thermometer to monitor the temperature. Follow your wax’s directions and temperature guidelines. Stir the wax occasionally to encourage melting.
Step 6: Add Fragrance- Once the wax has completely melted, add your fragrance until you reach the desired intensity. A beachy scent seemed appropriate for oyster candles so we went with Teakwood.
Step 7: Pour the Wax- Carefully pour the hot wax into your oyster shells. It helps to have an extra set of hands around to keep the wicks from falling over while the wax firms up. You may need to prop some shells up to keep them level so the wax doesn’t spill out. When the waxed has firmed up trim your wicks down. The wax should set completely in about 2 hours.
Step 8: Light and Enjoy
