Candles bring an air of elegance and softness to any room in which they’re used.  They serve many purposes from easy illumination to creating a centerpiece for a table.  Candles have been around for centuries.  No one knows just how long they’ve been around.  Egyptians were some of the first to use beeswax candles dating back to 3000 B.C.  There are artifacts that show that the first candles with wicks were created during the Roman period in history.  Our love for candles and the art of candle making is always developing. This is apparent in the styles of the candles that we use. 

So, you want to make candles? 

There are several types of candles to choose from when you take into account candle making.  The key is to choose one type of candle to make and get that one down pat before starting another.  Begin slow and build your craft.  This will give you a feel for working with wax and the equipment necessary for making candles.  With so many methods and types of candles that you can make it can get very confusing and frustrating. 

Start by working with the basic poured candle.  For this type of candle you’ll need the following; a dedicated pot that’ll be used only for melting your wax, a candy thermometer so that you can check the wax temperature, a wooden spoon or two to work with, wax, dye, and wick supplies which you can purchase at your local craft store.  You may also want to purchase additives such as vybar or steric acid because these can increase the burn time of your candle. Paraffin is the most commonly used wax for candle making this day and the ideal for a beginner to start with. 

Find containers that are functional, decorative, and safe.  Some of the best places to find containers are from thrift stores, yard sales, and your own kitchen.  Examples of containers are things such as old teacups, funny coffee mugs, good heavy glasses, and of course the Mason jar.

You’ve what you need, now what?

After gathering all the supplies and equipment in one place you’re ready to get started. A word of caution here is to be sure that all your equipment is clean and dry.  Test your container prior to pouring hot wax into it to be sure that it will not break and can be used safely. Place a small drop of hot glue on the metal bottom of the wick then place it into the center of the container making sure to press down well. The wick can be kept in the center by wrapping a small portion of the wick around a pencil that lies on top of the container.  Make sure to secure the pencil before pouring the wax. 

Safety is important when working with heat and wax so keep a fire extinguisher handy.  And never throw water on a fire caused by wax!

Use a big pan that is approximately 1/3 full of water and bring the temperature of the water to 212° Fahrenheit. Place your pot with wax into the water. Keep the water at the same temperature while melting the wax.  Do not let the water boil away; add water as needed. Use the thermometer to test the temperature of the wax.  Follow the manufacturer’s recommended temperature for melting wax because it varies with different waxes.  Typically the ideal temperature for container wax is 170 - 175 degrees.  Never let the wax exceed 250 degrees! 

Once the wax has melted add the vybar or steric acid to the wax and mix well. The final step before pouring is adding color to your melted wax making sure to mix well.  You’re now ready to pour your melted candle wax into your container.  Fill the container leaving approximately ¼ of headroom for the wick.  Once the candle wax has set you may then remove the pencil.  Trim the wick ¼ inch from the wax.

You have done it! You’ve made your first decorative candle and are now hooked.  You have so much to explore and lots of ideas.  As with all projects, have fun and be safe!

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Woodworking books show you how to revamp your home using your woodworking skills. If you have any queries regarding your project then you can always refer back to your purchased book. Even professionals, use books as a standard reference.

You will get professional advice in these books, on a large variety of woodworking topics. They are written by professionals who have years of experience in the industry. So if you are a woodworker but you do not have the required knowledge about finishing your project, then you can refer to your book. Carpenters working on any wooden furniture will often find a problem at some point. And that is the time they take help from a joinery book.

Woodworking books will show you the techniques that are used to create a lasting and a beautiful wooden products. Your furniture will be durable if the joints are well made. These books will explain to you in detail, how you can create sturdy and long lasting joints. These books also pass along the secrets and tips of the experienced craftsman, that you will require to make perfect furniture.

They also provide you with up to date information on machinery that used when making your project. Cutting tools need be used correctly. An incorrect cut will damage and weaken any furniture you make. These books tell you the techniques of using any specialized tools that you will need. Woodworking books give professional advice about consistently creating identical furniture using templates.

If crafter’s want to hone their skills for there various projects, then they will need the help of these woodworking books. Your project may range from making special bowls and boxes to toys and hat stands. Whatever your project, there will be a book available to you, that can really help you get the best results.

These books will also teach you how to use wood carving tools efficiently and in the correct manner. They will also tell you how to easily make the most fundamental wood carving cuts such as stabbing, running, sweeping and sliding using woodworking tools.

If you wish to develop the skills of molding and shaping a wooden products, then you should read a wood turning book. They can also provide you with the knowledge that enhance your existing skills and hone them to perfection.

Make Ice Candles

One of the better candle making ideas that is worth trying is the making of ice candles and even though this is something that most of us may have tried while still in third grade, it can be refined to make it more interesting and of course, you will need to prepare molds, set the core candles, pack the molds with ice and then pour the wax, and then set it aside to cool down after which you can unmold as well as drain, and finally, enjoy the ice candles.

Another option open to you and which is to use a nifty candle making idea that involves the making of hurricane candles that are especially beautiful though you need to be extra careful because if not properly done, they can even are dangerous. It is a type of candle that is supposed to burn in the middle while illuminating the outside shell and it is quite usual to have dried flowers, pot pouri, candy canes, and even sea shells embedded in the outside shell that makes for a better looking candle.

You might also choose from another one of the many interesting candle making ideas and that is to create candles in the form of pillars and of course, for this too you would need the usual ingredients that include wax, dye, scent and wick as also wicktab and a choice of toilet paper as well as paper tower roll, an empty carton of milk and even one of orange juice and a peanut can as well as old shampoo bottles and more in the same vein.

To get the most from this candle making idea, you could try and set a number of different shapes as well as sizes of the pillars which may even are of the same color, and then intertwine them with silk ivy or even with silk flower garlands that will result in a very good looking candle.

When choosing your knitting bag, always keep in mind the type of work you will be undertaking. If you decide to make sweaters, such as Afghans, then you will need a much larger one than if you were to decide to make socks, or other small items. When choosing a bag you should always keep in mind, that your bag will be used for carrying your knitting material from place to place, so the stronger the bag you decide on, the more objects you can carry.

If you wish it to serve a dual purpose, such as a knitting bag that also serves the purpose of a purse, then look for knitting bags which come in leather, or suede. There is a large variety available in to days market. Some of them are intricately designed, while the others are simple but smart looking. So you can choose a knitting bag that satisfies your mood or is a treat for an eye.

When choosing your knitting bag, you should always keep a track of the latest fashion and what will be your requirements. While shopping for one, it is always better to purchase a bag which has hard sides as it is easy to carry and more durable.

Instead of zippers always choose one which has a snap, this is so your knitting does not get stuck in between zippers.  It also is always better to purchase one that has a pocket or two for keeping your accessories in. If you decide on buying a large one, then always better to buy one with purse length handles, this will make it easy to carry it on your shoulders, for comfort and ease.

If you are purchasing a small bag to carry knitting materials for smaller projects. Then you need to consider one that has soft sides, this is so that you can fit extra material in it, without harming it. A drawstring or a short strap will make it easier to wrap the bag around your wrist, while carrying. If you carry bigger bags then it is possible that some of your smaller items may get misplaced.

It is not necessity to buy a knitting bag, if you are enthusiastic enough then you can make one for yourself. You could knit a bag, or even make it out of fabric. You will also find there are a lot of free patterns to choose from, if you do decide to make one. You can use any type of fabric or material to make your bag, as long as you choose a fabric that pleases you and is strong enough to carry your load.

A knitting bag not only makes you mobile, but also provides an opportunity to show your talents and latest projects to all your friends and family. Whether you be at your friends, family’s or at your home and people ask you about your latest project or your knitting talents, then you can easily teach them a stitch or two by carrying an extra needles and yarns in your knitting bag.

Before you start making simple Christmas crafts, it would be a good idea to first gather the materials that are available to you. Look for scrap materials that are lying around your home, such as small pieces of cardboard, ribbons, buttons, glitters, stickers, labels, Styrofoam and wire. Don’t forget to include crayons, pens, food coloring, and glue.

Once you’ve compiled all the materials, you can decide on what craft to make. Here are some cheap and simple Christmas crafts that can help reduce the amount you have to spend during the holidays.

HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS CARDS

If you have friends and relatives who live in other countries, making a homemade Christmas card is a cheap but special way to show that you remember them during the holiday season. First, get a piece construction paper and fold it in half. You can also cut it into a Christmas-themed shape, if you want. Next, paste pictures of Christmas-related things on the card, such as Santa Clause or Christmas trees. For a more personalized card, paste a picture of you and your family on it. Finally, write a personalized poem or letter inside.

CANDLES

Candles are actually very easy Christmas crafts to make, especially when you have to give gifts to a big number of people. All you really need is some wax and wick, and some coloring. Once the candle is ready, look for a small glass or candle holder at home where you can place the completed product. It takes only a little time to make candles to give away as gifts. Some molds for candles even allow you to produce several candles at once, making it even more convenient.

WIRE ORNAMENTS

If you’ve some loose bendable wire at home, think about making wire figurines. You can shape the wire into different forms, such as angels or Bible figures. Paint or add glitter to the wire to make it more festive. You can even take small pieces of fabric to clothe the figures. Don’t forget to add a ribbon or a thread at the top so you can hang the ornament.

POTPOURRI OR SCENTED PINECONES

Another cheap and simple Christmas craft to make is potpourri. You can use peels from fruits you’ve eaten, such as lemons and oranges. Dry these peels in the oven for several hours. Once they’re crisp and leathery, combine them with fragrant spices, such as bay leaves or cinnamon. Place it in a jar and cover it tight. This can serve to decorate and give fragrance to a room. You can also use dried pinecones for this purpose. Just coat the pinecones with glue and cover it with a mixture of spices, such as nutmeg, ginger and cinnamon. These pinecones can additionally be used as Christmas tree ornaments.

Making a Christmas gift from scratch doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. Wow someone with one of these simple Christmas crafts and see for yourself!

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“Work, work, and more work” is the global mantra these days. As you get caught up in the rat race for power and pelf stop a while to think whether too much work is making you a dull boy! If you are constantly jittery or anxious, its time you had some time just for your self. A hobby like coin collecting could become an exciting and a competitive sport and do you a lot of good by diverting attention from mundane tasks. So hoard interesting coins instead of dollars for a change!

A coin collection usually starts from modest beginnings. For example, you may have coins in your wallet from a trip to another country or you might encounter old coins while rummaging about in an antique shop. You can base your collection on country, year, period, or subject. If you or a friend or family member travels a great deal globally, you would find it easy to collect coins of different countries. You may also choose a particular foreign country that interests you, say France or India, and collect coins of that country. In contrast, collect your nation’s coins if you want to know more about it!  

Collecting by year involves collecting a particular coin every year of its manufacture. For example, if a certain coin was produced first in 1900 you collect from that year to the present. If a certain monarch’s reign interests you, collect coins from that period. Alternatively, you could collect ancient or medieval period Roman, Indian, or Greek coins. Subject collection would include coins on a particular subject, for example, maps, flowers, or ships.

Some coin collectors collect by error! I mean they collect faulty coins. These include clipped coins, off center coins, and coins with over dates. These coins are very rare as automation has reduced the possibility of errors. This makes them even more interesting and desirable. You can also collect by material, state gold or silver.

Apart from picking up interesting coins during international travel, you can get them at local antique shops, flea markets, coin shows, and auctions. Some coin collectors say that rummaging through charity boxes kept at local stores also leads to interesting discoveries. But, don’t forget to inform the shop owner before embarking on such activities.

Coin collecting is great, but where are you going to store them?  Many people keep their coin collection in a box, but keeping coins all together can lead to scratches on their surface. It’s also difficult to locate a particular coin when required. To begin with, you can consider storing coins in separate paper envelopes, label the envelopes and, then, keep them inside a box. You can also opt for small plastic bags to store your coin collection. This way, in contrast to paper envelopes, you’ll be able to see your coins without touching them directly. However, ensure that the plastic bag is not made of PVC, which could harm the coins inside. When you develop a large collection you can select a cardboard or plastic coin album. All these storage devices can be bought from hobby shops, coin shops, or online stores.

Before you begin buying expensive coins for your collection invest in a price guide, magnifying glass, and desk lamp. You can also join local coin collection clubs and read up books on this hobby.

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Recipes For Different Wax Effects

There are recipes for making candles that are based on blending waxes and preparing wax for different effects such as floating candle wax or a frosting effect. Other effects that you can achieve with candle wax include marbling, embedded wax, glitter, gel, painted and a variety of other effects. You may want to blend waxes to lower costs or to get different effects from the wax such as a longer burn time or added fragrance.

Color In Different Forms

You can also find recipes for creating color that are compatible with your coloring materials whether the coloring agent is flaked, liquid or in block form. It takes so much of a coloring agent per pound of wax to get the desired color so once you understand how your coloring agents work according to their manufacturer’s instructions then you can then apply this knowledge to your own candle making recipes. You can also mix colors to get more color options.

Scented Candle Recipes

You will want to make use of fragrance oils and essential oils when they are used for scenting your candles. You can only use so much fragrance oil per candle before it affects the burning ability of the candle. Any other special instructions that come with the scenting agents will be easy to understand once you begin making your handcrafted candles. You can also use herbs and spices in your candles for scent.

There are candle recipes for creating scented candles for aromatherapy, home scents and for creating different atmospheres such as romantic, spiritual and healing. You can use fragrance oils and essential oils in ways that will enhance your living space and can contribute to your good mood. You can try already tested fragrance blends or you can create your own special recipe based on your favorite scents and needs.

You can find candle making recipes on the Internet and in books at craft stores or your local library. Some candle making recipes are traditional and have been in use for a long time and you can find modern recipes based on the new ingredients that are available for use in candle making.

The reason why people like to make their own candles instead of buying from a candle shop is because it is very interesting and enjoyable to be able to make their own candles. Additionally, the self-made candle is an unique creation by itself and it can be a distinctive present for their friends and family.

Candle making is simple once you have the fundamental understanding of how to make a candle. But before you start to make a candle, you will need to have the necessary candle making supplies and equipments ready.

Having a knowledge of the attributes of various kinds of candles is crucial to make a quality candle.

The first type of candle is the solid candle. It is usually formed in a mold and can be a large block candle in different shapes suchlike rectangle, cylinder or even down to a votive candle. Various ingredients like vanilla, mint, cinnamon can be added to give addition distinctive odor to the candle. In essence, any aromatic or spice ingredient can be added to produce certain kinds of distinctive smell.

Crayon candle is some other type of candle you can make. It can be done by mixing old crayons with paraffin to give it a nice looking appearance. Bees wax candle is another alternative of candles you can make easily since it does not require any melting of wax. The only requirement to making bees wax candle is to wrap the wax tightly around the wick during the candle making process. Dipping candle is yet another type of candle that you can consider for, but the process of making dipping candle is somewhat tedious as the candle has to be dipped repeatedly until the candle is at its desired thickness.

No matter which type of candle you decided to make, you need to have a proper candle making supply and ingredient in order to make a good candle. Equipments like double boiler, wax melter, and candle molds are needed in the process of candle making to melt the wax at high temperatures safely and to form the shape of the candle. Ingredients like waxes and wicks are undeniably the requisite ingredients of a candle. Fragrance and dye can be added to the candle to make the candle scented and look more appealing and colorful.

Wax: The foremost candle making supply that you must have is the candle base or wax. There are different kinds of waxes available, depending on the kind of candle you want to make. The basic kinds of waxes include paraffin, beeswax, soy wax and vegetable wax. The most commonly used of these is paraffin. You can buy wax in bulk as slabs, usually for a cheaper price. There are also less conventional choices, such as palm wax and gel, which you might want to try out.

Wick: Wicks come in different sizes and thicknesses. Thicker wicks are ideal used for more massive candles. This allows the entire candle to burn cleanly, melting even the edges. Even though there are a variety of thicknesses, most craft stores only sell a couple of sizes. At the very least, stores sell wicks that can be used for candles of standard sizes, and those will work well with the molds they’re selling. Also, the stores will probably have pre-trimmed wicks with a piece of metal at one end, which are best used for votive candles.

Dyes: Dyes for coloring your candles can be purchased in blocks or chips. Add a chip of dye while the wax is melting; don’t put in too much, because some dyes tend to give a strong color even when only a small amount is used. Make sure you don't get anything on your clothes or other fabric, as candle dye tends to stain permanently.

Scents: Scents that you can use for your candles typically come in small glass containers. These scents are manufactured chemically, and might give off a very strong scent; it is ideal to add only a few drops while the wax is melting. Begin by using the most popular scents, such as vanilla, cinnamon and floral scents.

Molds: A wide assortment of candle molds is available from most craft stores. Take your pick – from basic shapes, such as cylinders, cubes and pyramids to more complicated shapes and figures, such as hearts, stars, roses and even Santa Clause. These molds are available in both metal and plastic pieces. The best part about this candle making supply is that, although these molds are available at stores, you can make them on your own using materials at home! There is no limit to what you can do!

Other Supplies: The aforementioned items are the essentials in candle making; however, there are other candle making supplies you can use. You can buy containers in different sizes where you can place the glasses for superior packaging. You can also use stamps and stencils to give your candles great designs. Try them and make your candles stand out!

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by Paul Cameron

Woodworking covers a variety of processes, such as cabinetmaking, joinery, marquetry, turning, and woodcarving. Even so, each and every skilled craftsperson at some time had to learn the basic principles of marking, measuring, dimensioning, assembling and finishing. These skills are the fundamentals of woodworking and are the nitty-gritty of woodworking, be it hobby or profession.

The ability to conceptualize three dimensionally is necessary to mark up the wood and to envisage how one piece fits with another and in what order. Also, you need to figure out which tools will produce the best final result, taking into consideration the precision required and the attributes of the wood.

The procedure of cutting down the wood precisely to size is known as dimensioning - a process that’s straightforward in theory but takes much repetition to hone. All except the most basic of woodworking projects call for slicing and putting together an assortment of joints. Long considered to be a test of a woodworker’s skill, joinery requires unwavering hand-eye coordination. However, practice will help you discover the most effective means to secure one section of wood to another appealingly and inconspicuously without giving up durability.

An essential add-on to these fundamental abilities is a perception of how wood performs. It’s a one of a kind, living object that swells and shrinks with shifts in humidity, an issue that a woodworker has to address in the planning and building of each item. There are woods that are easier to work with than others, and each piece of wood, no matter what type it is, has distinct twists and turns in its grain.

In woodworking, there isn’t just one right way to do things. The ideal method is the one that suits you the most, and strikes a balance between the time required to finish the project, the tools at hand, the satisfaction you receive from the activity and the desired quality of the completed product.

Their are lots of reasons for and against using either machines or hand tools in woodworking. There are those who will insist that hand tools help you to learn how to cut and form wood while keeping the grain intact. Other experts in the field believe that you can complete a project faster by using hand tools, mostly because of the time involved in preparing to work with mechanical tools. Some others believe the total opposite.

With a bit of patience, the proper tools and techniques, and a good design, you could be well on your way to creating something you’ll appreciate for a long time to come.

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