This project is based off of one by Maureen Vickery I found in an old issue of Expression, and I thought it would translate really well to weddings. You can engrave pretty much anything you want, and I think you could use this idea to create your own unity candle or candle centerpieces for your tables!
What you’ll need –
- Pillar candle, preferably unscented (somewhere around 6″ tall or 4″ in diameter)
- Rubbing alcohol
- Masking tape
- Text template
- Embossing stylus – small/medium
- Rub ‘n Buff in Grecian Gold
- Cotton swabs
- Plastic gloves
- Turpentine
How to make it –
Start by wiping down the surface of your candle with rubbing alcohol. Once dry, use the masking tape to attach your text template.
Fold up an old towel to place under your candle while you work – it helps keep from damaging the surface. Taking the smaller end of the embossing stylus (mine is made by Hero Arts and they’re usually available in the paper craft section of craft stores), lightly trace over the letters. No need to press down too hard right now.
Once you’ve traced everything, peel off the template. You’ll want to get a really good, bright light source to do the next part.
Carefully go over your engraved words – it’s better to use relatively light pressure and go over it several times than to press too hard and mess up your outlines.
Wipe off the stylus tip periodically and brush away the wax bits as you work. Once the letters are etched in, take a cotton swab and dip the tip in the Rub ‘n Buff. Carefully dab it into the grooves of the letters.
Make sure the gold coverage is nice and even (if you see spots that need touching up, you can always go over them again with the stylus and then add more Rub ‘n Buff).
Now, put on some plastic gloves and dip a clean cotton swab in the turpentine. Make sure you work in a well-ventilated area because turpentine has nasty vapors!
Carefully remove the excess Rub ‘n Buff from the surface of the candle. Once your engravings are tidy to your satisfaction, let the candle dry for 30 minutes to an hour.
Now, you’re free to burn the candle at your wedding! If you want to keep it afterwards, you can place a tea light in the center once the candle has burned down low enough.