Turn boring candles into exciting craft projects.
Photos.com/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
When kids are stuck inside on a rainy or extremely hot day, they can get easily bored. But before you sit them down in front of the television or computer, look through your craft supplies to see if you have the materials to make crafts. Even if your supplies are running low, with a hot glue gun, candles and some glitter you can help your kids make a simple, beautiful and fun craft.
Materials
You'll only need a few materials to pull off this craft successfully: a hot glue gun with glue sticks, glitter, candles and a paintbrush. The glitter you use is up to you, but for the most colorful options, use at least three different colors of glitter. Use candles that are at least 5 inches high and 4 inches in diameter; these large-sized candles will give you and your kids enough surface area to create intricate patterns.
Method
Insert a glue stick into your hot glue gun and plug the gun in. Allow the glue gun to heat up for at least 10 minutes (check your owner's manual for the exact time requirements). Apply the hot glue to the outside of a candle using whatever pattern you wish. For example, you could write your name in hot glue or a salutation, such as "Happy Birthday!" Once you're finished applying the glue, sprinkle glitter over candle so that it sticks. Wait a few minutes for the glue to dry and then brush away the glitter that isn't stuck to the candle.
Variations
This craft project can be manipulated to suit whatever needs and materials you have. To create an even more vibrant design, sprinkle more than one color glitter over the candle. You can also mix the glitter colors together before you sprinkle them to ensure the colors are evenly distributed. If you have more than one color, think of more complex designs that utilize each of the candles. For example, you could write each letter of your name on each of the candles and then put the candles together to display your entire name.
Safety
Hot glue can burn your skin very easily, so never allow young children to use the hot glue, wear gloves when using it, and consult your owner's manual for the appropriate warming times. When you're finished using the hot glue, immediately unplug the glue gun. Also consider the candles you use for this craft. Dripless candles are the best option, especially if your kids will be near them. However, never allow young children to light candles.
About the Author
Jordan Whitehouse began his writing career in 2004, publishing fiction and poetry in "Ultra-violet Magazine" and "Generation Magazine." He has since moved to Toronto, where his writing, photography and editorial clients have included HarperCollins, Katherine Govier, "Eye Weekly," "The Grid," Cruickshank Construction and "The Complete Engineer." Whitehouse studied English literature and psychology at Queen's University.
Photo Credits
- Photos.com/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
