How To Make Oil Lantern Candles

2 Materials
Easy
Do you love to entertain outdoors in the summer and create pretty table decor? I do and often include candles in mine! See how to make your own in this DIY and they are more economical and work well in the wind.
I gathered some jelly jars from my cupboard as well as a few essential supplies that most of us have on hand. Next I went out to my garden to find some flower petals that had dropped to the ground so that I could recycle them into this project.
I smushed the petals into the jar to hold them down towards the bottom while I filled about 3/4 of the way with water. They looked festive, but I wanted a little more color and added a scant drop of food coloring to tint the water. Next I added about 1/2" or so of vegetable oil and the special inexpensive wicks that I've sourced for you over on my blog linked below.
For a true summer coast feel, I followed the same procedure and added some seashells and beach glass to the jelly jars but didn't tint the water. The oil candles are safe should they tip over, as they need oil to burn and will extinguish if they spill out. If you want wind resistance to the flame, simply fill them only about 3/4 full and they will still burn but the flame will be protected from breezes.
You can tailor this project to every season and your own decorating style! They work well for weddings and parties and provide a cleaner burn then most candles do, so no worries about allergies unless you decide to scent them with some essential oils.


One last tip...using varied jar sizes makes for a more interesting vignette! For more info and supply sources...please visit my blog linked below.
Suggested materials:
  • Jelly Jars   (http://amzn.to/29HzGDR)
  • Floating Wicks   (http://amzn.to/2afHKxf)
Janet Coon-Shabbyfufu
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
3 of 14 questions
  • Mel5214000 Mel5214000 on Aug 03, 2016
    I am wondering , would it be OK to add citronella ?
  • Marilyn Marilyn on Aug 26, 2016
    this is regular cooking oil?
  • Meg Meg on Jan 15, 2017
    Can I use long wicks in wine bottles?
Comments
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2 of 23 comments
  • Blindsgalore Blindsgalore on Sep 12, 2016
    These are just beautiful and simply to make. Thanks for sharing, can't wait to try this!
  • Janet Janet on Sep 19, 2016
    Really cool and thanks for considering those who have allergies to scents
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