Thursday, May 30, 2019

Summer Time Luminaries!

~Summer Time Luminaries~


Who doesn't like to play with water balloons on hot summer days?
Learn how to make beautiful luminaries with just wax and, you guessed it.. Water Balloons!



Materials needed:
- Water Balloons
- Cookie Sheet
- Candle Dye (Optional if you'd like them colored)




Fill a water balloon with water (room temp or cool water is okay)



Melt wax to 170°-180°


Slowly dip the water-filled balloon into the melted wax, just below (roughly 1/2") the water level within the balloon. 
*Note: Do NOT dip the balloon into the wax above the water level that is within the balloon. The hot temperature of the wax will likely cause the balloon to break.






Dip the balloon every few seconds, allowing the wax-covered balloon to cool a bit between each dip. 


While the wax covered balloon is still warm, set the balloon down on a cookie sheet or heat-resistant surface, while holding the end of the balloon, making sure that the balloon is level, as this will create a flat bottom for the luminary. 


Continue to dip the balloon a few more times until the wax has reached the desired thickness. A thickness of right around 1/4" is ideal.





Set the balloon on a heat-resistant surface once again and allow to fully cool.


 


Once completely cooled, hold the balloon over a sink of bucket and carefully pop the balloon to allow the water to drain. 
*Tip: I popped the balloon at the very end by where I was holding it, so I could hold it away from me and allow it to slowly drain without bursting everywhere. :)


Dispose of any left over broken balloon pieces.





To achieve a smooth and level surface on the luminary, heat a cookie sheet on the stove (or like I did, use a heat gun to heat a metal candle plate) and place the luminary top-down onto the hot surface to carefully melt the edges evenly across.







Place a tea light or battery-operated candle within the luminary for a beautiful glow in a dark area. 



*Note: For colored luminaries, add a bit of candle dye to the wax before dipping the balloon.




 
*Note: To add natural pieces to your luminary such as pine needles or dried flowers, apply the dried pieces to the sides of the luminary in between dips while the wax is still hot. The pieces will stick to the wax before it dries. Be sure to dip the following layer of wax rather quickly to prevent the natural pieces from sliding off into your melted wax!






If there is a fun Candle or Bath & Body project that you would like to learn about, we would LOVE to hear from you! Please send all requests to info@candlesupply.com. Thank you!
Happy Candle & Soap Making!
-Elya