DIY Candles and Garden Markers

 These projects are super simple to make, and take less than thirty minutes each! They're also kid-friendly, and cost-effective, as both deal with recycling.

 These candles are made from old tealights, broken candles and seashells.

Before the wax can be melted down and shaped, you must first remove the wick from your tealights. Flip your tealight over and remove the metal backing, and (VERY) gently pull on the small, metal circle. This will remove your wick. Set aside for now.

 Once you have removed your wick and designated your amount of candles, place the wax into a double boiler, or a tin can inside of a pot filled with boiling water. (Personally, I do this fairly often. If you are working with children, I suggest intervening at this part due to the heat.) Keep an eye on the wax, as it will begin to melt fairly quickly. Continuously stir until fully melted.

 

 After your wax has melted, position your wick in your seashell. Try to keep it from moving, and away the inside of the shell. Once positioned, gradually pour your wax into the shell. Before using your new candles, remember to let them cool a few hours in advance. :-)

 These lovely garden markers are made from wine corks and bamboo skewers, however chopsticks or old paintbrush handles would be perfectly fine, too. Obviously this isn't much of a tutorial since it's just sticking a cork onto a stick...But ta-dah!