- The correct and safest way to melt wax is with a bain-marie, or water bath, because the wax is highly flammable. I chose to use a gas burner because for this kind of candle you need the wax to be very hot in order for the sand to soak in and make a thick outer layer.
- First we need to make the sand mould. Fill a large container with sand. The sand must be moist in order to hold its shape. Make a hole in the sand and bury an object in order to make the mould.
- Compact the sand around the object, take it out and you are left with this.
- Suspend the wicks over the moulds and you are ready to pour the hot wax.
- Melt the wax until it comes almost to a boil; about 126 degrees Celsius. If you haven’t got a thermometer, watch the wax carefully and you will see it starting to move as if it is boiling. That’s a good indication that it's time to take it off the fire.
- Never ever leave the hot wax unattended and keep it away from kids and pets. It's best to work outdoors away from flammable items Keep a fire extinguisher close at hand.
- If the wax should catch fire, DO NOT pour water on it! Turn off the heat and cover the container with a lid in order to deprive it of oxygen.
- Pour the wax in the moulds.
- You will need to top up the wax after some time because it soaks into the sand and the level will drop.
- Once the wax has hardened you can take the candles out and scrape off any loose sand on the outside.
