How to Make Eggshell Candles

Use Eggshells to Make Lovely Whimsical Easter or Spring Candles

Mar 3, 2010
Melissa Howard

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Eggshell Candles - Melissa Howard

Dyed eggshells are perfect for small seasonal candles to brighten up the end of a long winter or to celebrate Easter.

Save your eggshells for this quintessentially spring craft project.

Supplies

clean eggshells
water
food coloring
vinegar
Microwavable candle wax
Wicks
Wick holders
Hot glue or glue dots

Instructions

When cracking eggs to save for this project, try to crack them near the narrow end so the opening is smaller and the most possible shell is saved.
To clean the eggshells, use hot water and run your finger around the inside of the egg. The hot water will ‘cook’ the lining of the eggshell and you can pull the ‘skin’ out with your fingers. Note: It is important to remove all of the egg membrane from the shell. If you do not, your shells may grow mold.
Allow the shells to dry completely before making the candles.
In a heatproof container, pour several teaspoons of vinegar. Fill the containers about three-quarters of the way up with boiling water. Add food coloring to create the color you wish (most food coloring kits will have recommendations for how much to add to make different colors).
Place the eggs in the water for five minutes.
Pull the eggs out and let them dry thoroughly.
Cut the wick slightly longer than you will want it to be.
Thread the wick through the wick clip so that almost the entire wick is pulled through with just enough to hold the wick flush to the bottom of the clip. Use a pliers to squeeze the clip onto the wick to hold it in place.
Use hot glue or glue dots to adhere the wick clip to the bottom of the egg.
Prepare the wax for pouring according to the manufacturers directions.
Fill the eggshell with wax. Use toothpicks, pencils, or skewers to hold the wicks in place and prevent them from falling to the side of the eggshell or into the wax.
Let the candle cool until the wax is hardened.
Trim the wick.

Warnings

Protect your work area when using food coloring, food coloring can permanently stain counter tops and clothes.
Cover your work area when using hot wax; wax can be harmful to your work surface and clothes.
Never leave a burning candle unattended.

Ideas and Suggestions

Make a dozen candles, put them in an egg carton and give them as a gift.
It might be easier to use a tweezers when sticking the wick clip to the bottom of the eggshells.
Decorate your Easter table with eggshell candles.
Use eggshell candles as part of your Pascha celebration.
Scrambled eggs are a great way to use up eggs.
Make eggshell candles as a gift for those who join you for Easter dinner.