Getting the most from your candles.........

We sell and use a fabulous line of scented candles.  They smell good whether they're burning or not. Because of their shape, they burn down the center and a lot of good smelling wax is left on the sides.  We don't want to waste that,  now do we?  I save my leftover pieces until I have enough wax for another candle.  Dig out any remaining wick and the little metal thingey at the bottom and discard those.  Put all the wax in a double boiler to melt.  (Don't use a good pot for this.  Use a clean can or old pot you find at Goodwill.  You can keep it designated for this purpose. ) I have been using this little metal bucket I found in the garage.  Heat it in a double boiler or pan of boiling water.  Meanwhile, get something ready to mold your new candle in.  I usually use a square paper milk carton, the small ones that half-and-half come in.  Cut off the top or open it up to make it easy to pour.  Cut a piece of wick and tie it around a pencil.  Rest the pencil on top of the milk carton and let the wick hang into the middle of the carton, barely touching the bottom.   (Don't get the wick that has wire in it..get the soft fiber kind at Michaels). Pour the melted wax into the carton.  Set in the refrigerator to cool and harden.  When done, cut the wick off, leaving about 1/2 inch coming out the top.  Peel the milk carton away.

Here's a variation - Before you pour the hot wax into the milk carton, put some crushed ice pieces in the carton.  When you pour the hot wax in, it will melt the ice leaving a lacy texture.