Surface Decorating Methods
To expand your creative surface decoration repertoire, try any or all of these approaches:
Overdip in clear wax to smooth out any blemishes.
Overdip in a different color. You can change the color completely by using a strongly colored overdipping wax.
Pour different colors of melted wax over the finished candle. (See “Dripped Dipped Candles,” p. 180.)
Splash the candle with crystalline wax. As it cools, it forms little crystals. This is a very effective means of decorating a single-colored candle.
Overdipping in ice water. If you dip the freshly made candle into ice water (not just cold water for shine), a square crystal formation will appear on the outer surface of the candle. This effect makes for attractive decoration.
Using a round-headed (ball-peen) hammer, you can make indentations around the surface of an overdipped white candle that will result in white rings decorating the surface, around little dents. This can be very pretty.
Ordinarily, the ideal is a smooth, shiny candle, but for a rustic effect you can sandpaper the surface. Fine sandpaper will give a nice finish (just like it does on wood). Coarse sandpaper will provide a “country” look. This is especially charming when you are setting a country theme dinner table — with baskets, checkered tablecloth and napkins, homey decorations, and plain wholesome food.
You can embed objects in your candle two ways. Either roll the warm candle in a pan of small objects, as described above, or use wax glue. Both methods work well, but wax glue is recommended for embedding larger, heavier objects — such as tiny washers or large beads. Candles with objects embedded in them can be overdipped into clear wax to help the objects adhere to the surface. Just make it a quick dip so you don't cover up the decorations!
Candle Varnish — This is a special varnish made for candles. It gives a hard surface and a brilliant shine. Paint candle varnish using a soft brush.
Gold and Silver Wax — For holiday candles and special occasions, gold and silver wax is wonderful. It can be rubbed on the candle's surface in various ways and is easy to use. (See “Adding Texture to Finished Candles,” p. 234.)
Poster Paints (tempera) — These water-based paints are perfect for painting the surface of candles. If you mix them with a bit of dishwashing detergent, they will be easier to apply and adhere better. Best of all, cleanup is easily achieved with plain water.
Felt-Tipped Pens — Some felt-tipped and metallic ink pens will work well on candles; others will not. This is an area in which you will need to experiment.
