27
Apr
Candle sand is one of the most innovative and creative ways to add a touch of originality to your home. For most of us, we are familiar with the conventional block-shaped candles or the jar-shaped container with wax that we normally find in our local home decor stores.
Although these are the conventional and most popular forms of candle decor in our homes, they are usually accompanied by drawbacks such as spilling and the inevitable waste that occurs when the candle burns out before the wax is exhausted. But there’s a better way to introduce candles into your home.
Sand wax is also known as pearled wax or granular wax. It is tiny balls of wax that resemble white sand. This type of candle is different from the common candle that is moulded into shape while still in liquid form as the practical sand candle wax remains in its granular state until it is ignited.
Sand wax is of high quality if it is derived from natural sources such as refined palm or soy wax. This type of candle is poured into a container, which takes the shape of the container immediately. As it’s biodegradable, it’s suitable for home use.
The magic of the sand wax begins when a wick is inserted and ignited. The only part of the wax that melts is the part around the wick, and the rest of the wax remains dry and loose. This leaves a small amount of liquid wax that holds up a flame, just like a traditional candle. The fact that most of the wax remains in a sandy state means that the candle appears as if it has never been touched.
One of the greatest benefits of using sand candle wax is that it is infinitely reusable. When using a traditional jar candle, if the wick has burnt all the way down or if tunnelling has occurred, it is often not possible to reuse the candle. However, with sand wax, all you have to do is extinguish the flame, allow the small amount of melted wax to cool and harden, and then simply pick out the used wax.
A quick shaking of the container will then allow you to put in a new wick, making your candle look brand new. This means that you will never have to suffer with an ugly, soot-stained jar. Another great benefit of using sand wax is that it is much safer. If your sand wax candle is ever knocked over, the sand will smother the flame immediately.
Rather than having a big mess of hot, liquid wax dripping all over your carpet or wooden table, you will simply have a pile of wax that can be easily vacuumed or swept up. This makes it much more pet-friendly and child-friendly in today’s busy household. Sustainability is also an important factor. The fact that you are burning only the wax that you are actually using means that there is zero waste.
You will be reusing the same decorative containers over and over again, which means that you will be reducing the waste that goes into recycling. The fact that sand wax is derived from plants means that it will burn cleaner compared to other candles that are derived from paraffin. This is good for your air quality and will also keep your walls and ceilings clean.
One of the best features of sand wax is that it can be contained in any type of heat-resistant, nonflammable container. Glass vases, ceramic bowls, stone dishes, and even coconut shells are perfect for your sand wax. The fact that the wax does not melt completely means that your container does not have to get as hot as it would if you were making a traditional candle.
The proper use of the wick is the key to a successful sand wax experience. The majority of sand wax kits are supplied with long wicks that can be cut to size. To get the best out of your sand wax, you should cut a piece of wick that is five or six centimetres long. The wick should then be inserted into the centre of your poured sand wax, ensuring that a small portion of the wick protrudes from the top of the melted wax.
While the use of sand wax is extremely safe, there are some general safety precautions that must be taken into consideration. As with all candles, the candle must be lit on a stable surface away from any draughts or flammable materials. Never leave the candle unattended, even if it is made of sand wax. While the wax may be effective in putting out the flames, if the candle is tipped, the flames are still there and need your full attention.
It is important to keep the wicks trimmed to about one centimetre before lighting to avoid the flames becoming too big or producing too much soot. It is also advisable to keep the wax clean and devoid of any debris, e.g., burnt matchsticks and wick trimmings. If using more than one wick, the container must be sufficiently large to support the heat.
