Halloween comes and goes again, leaving behind a trail of spiders and witches’ hats, and a high blood sugar that can last until late November.
Now the question is, what to do with the spooky decorations? Most can easily be stored in a box for reuse next year, but what about those little pumpkins and gourds that so brightly adorned your mantel or front porch?
You can compost them or save them as Thanksgiving decorations, but with a little creativity, you can make fun candles that will keep your home warm and cozy until the snow falls.
This quick tutorial will show you how to: Create Festive Thanksgiving Candles Make leftover gourds and mini pumpkins using just a few basic ingredients. Natural beeswax and lead-free wicks transform hollowed-out mini pumpkins into cute, zero-waste, natural DIY candles.
The process is simple and a perfect activity that even little hands can easily do. Power tools and hot wax must always be handled by an adult.
Instructions
- First, make a hole in a gourd or pumpkin and cut out the inside. Alternatively, use a knife to cut off the top and scoop out the seeds to create a small jack-o-lantern.
- measure and cut lead free core It should extend about a quarter inch above the top of the gourd.
- melt pure beeswax In a tin can? double boiler until the wax becomes liquid.
- Place the cut wick inside the gourd and pour in the melted beeswax, keeping it in the center.
- Once the beeswax is poured, place the finished candle out of the way and let it cool and harden.
Looking for a helpful step-by-step video? Martha Stewart shares her guide to making gourd candles.
Not only is this a great way to reuse Halloween decorations, these homemade candles are a great way to reuse store-bought candles, which can contain artificial wax, lead-containing wicks, and numerous artificial fragrances. Can be easily replaced.
When finished, these natural candles make great seasonal decor or a thoughtful hostess gift. It also makes a great Thanksgiving gift for your child’s hard-working teacher when paired with a sweet scent.
Editor’s note: It was first published November 6, 2014this article was updated in November 2024. Feature images provided by: radicox
