Snowball Candle

[30 Minutes]

In ancient Rome, candles were made from tallow (fat from cow's and sheep) and beeswax. In the 19th century, paraffin was developed. Paraffin is distilled from wood, coal, and petroleum. Today most candles are made from a combination of paraffin and beeswax. Make snowball candles and add a festive glow to any room in your house.

You'll need:

• paraffin wax (available in most supermarkets) • double boiler • electric mixer • bowl • pot holders • metal spoon • old white candle stub or white votive candles

What to do:

1. If possible, print out these directions. Read them through before you begin.
2. Gather everything you'll need and always remember cooking and art safety.
3. Break up pieces of paraffin wax. Place in the top of the double boiler.
4. Add water to the base of double boiler. Put the top of the double boiler into the base. Turn on low heat.
5. Cook for about 20 minutes or until the wax is melted.
6. Use the potholders and remove the top of the double boiler.
7. Carefully, pour the hot wax into the bowl.
8. Let the wax cool down a little, use the electric mixer to whip the wax until it becomes very foamy.
9. Next, spoon the wax around the base of the votive candles or candle stubs.
10. Test the temperature of the wax (it should feel warm) and use your hands to form the wax into a ball.
11. Continue to whip the wax, then spoon it around the old candle stub or votive.
12. Shape the wax into a ball so that it surrounds the stub or votive.
13. Be certain to leave 1/2 inch of wick exposed.

Useful information:

Melted wax feels so soft. My dad and I made these candles one snowy afternoon. We made enough to give to all my aunts and uncles, and had some extra to keep some for ourselves. (Kristen, age 13)