Winter Decorating: How to Make an Ice Candle from a Juice Carton

Have you seen the candles that almost look like they were carved out of a block of ice? That's an Ice Candle! If you have shopped around at specialty department stores and gift shops, you will have noticed these sparkling little gems lining the outdoor sidewalks or entryways. But the question is -- How do you make one?

I have mastered the method of making these pretty candles. They allow you to easily and cheaply decorate your house in the winter months.

You will need the following:

A cleaned out paper juice carton-- such as an orange juice or milk carton.

A block of candle wax, (or several old candles you no longer use to be able to melt down to one mass)

Melting pot or old pan used for melting the wax.

Candle thermometer (these can be found at any craft supply store)

Wick or taper candle (these can be found at any craft supply store)

Wax colorings and scents (these can be found at any craft supply store)

Ice

Make sure the juice carton is clean and free of debris before you begin.

Trim the carton to the desired height. If you want larger candle than you can keep it tall. If you decide to make smaller candles to create a trio then cut to size after you make the first one. I like to make three in different sizes to create a trio of candles for display.

Grab a block of wax or some old candles and cut and break it into small pieces. Begin melting the pieces in your pot. Take caution to ensure that the wax doesn't become too hot and catch on fire, monitor the temperature with the candle thermometer-- keeping the wax between 170-180 degrees. If you want to add color to you candle, now is the time. Slowly add the color and stir while adding. A helpful hint is to shave or break up the pieces of the wax coloring before you add it to the pot (It melts a lot easier this way.) Stir.

Now you are ready to add a wick to your new ice candle. The trick with this is to use a taper candle that is the same color as the wick. Take a small amount of the hot wax and allow it to slightly harden at the bottom of the container. Set your wick in place and allow the wax to harden, this will form a solid base for the wick.

At this time, grab some ice and start crushing it inside a bag, the smaller you crush the ice the more intricate and detailed the candle will look.

Just before your wax is ready to pour, your last step should be to add your favorite scent into the wax by slowly pouring it in if it is a liquid or in small pieces if it is in gel form. Stir very well.

Now pour the ice into the top of the container.

The key is to use part wax and part ice for each candle you make.

Its time to pour the hot wax over the ice in the container. Don't be alarmed but the ice will melt a little before the wax starts to set.

Let everything stand overnight to completely harden and set.

The next day pour out any excess water and set the carton on a plate or in the sink to catch any extra liquids.

Now, the grand finale! Carefully, tear away the carton to reveal your new sculptured ice candle. Display, light the candle and enjoy!