#BeGreenMonth: Upcyling Crafts--Candle Crafts!

What is exactly is "upcycling?" According to the Online Oxford Dictionaries website, it is the reusing of materials that would usually be discarded in order to make it a higher quality product (think "one man's trash is another man's treasures"). It has recently become a trend thanks to Pinterest, but it is also a great way to be green! Why? Because every time a new product is purchased, energy is being used and pollution from production factories are being released in our air. Yuck! To give the earth a break (and your wallet), we have compiled some fun crafts for you to do with your best friends, Chapters, parents, kids you babysit, etc! Let's get started! Today, we will provide DIYs for candles and luminaries! Super easy and super fun!

Here's what you need:
-A bottle cap

-Candle wax

-Candle wick

Head's up: candle wicks can be a little tricky to find. They can be found in most craft stores. I had a candle break recently, so I just used the wick and wax from it.

The first step is easy! Just put the wick in the bottle cap.

Then, melt the candle wax! You can either melt the wax on the stove top or with a wax warmer. Because I didn't want to do dishes, I used my wax warmer! To be safe, I broke my wax into four pieces. If you don't have a wax warmer or prefer to use the stove, click here!

After the max is melted, grab wax paper or a paper plate to put your bottle cap on while you pour the melted wax. The wax is hot so be careful!!

Finally, wait about 1-2 hours for the wax to fully solidify. If need be, cut the wicks to a more suitable size. Grab a match and light your new candles!
                                       
Personally, I think these would look best in a little luminary hanging outside. Here is the final product!
Click here for the directions from Inspired by Familia!

Happy Upcycling!!