These easy, fragrant candles are a great addition to any backyard barbeque or summer fete.
Materials:
Assortment of fruits: oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruits
1 bag of shredded candle wax
Wick
Grapefruit spoon or small sharp knife
Paper towels
Muffin tray
Optional: A few drops of citrus oil extract (found at craft stores)
Directions:
- Cut the fruits in half (lemons and limes lengthwise; oranges and grapefruits widthwise).
- Use a grapefruit spoon or small sharp knife to hollow out the skins. Dry the insides of the skins with paper towels. Place the skins in a muffin tray.
- Cut wicks to approximate lengths. Make a small slit in the bottom of the each fruit half and stick one end of wick into the membrane so that it stands on its own.
- In a medium pot, add citrus oil extract (optional) and melt the shredded wax on high heat until it becomes a clear liquid. Pour wax slowly into the fruit halves, holding the wick upright with your free hand until the wax starts to harden.
- Let the wax cool. Trim the wick to desired height (wicks should never be more than 1/2" above wax). Store the fruit votives in the freezer until you are ready to use them.
Caution: Never leave a burning candle unattended.