Inspiration at every step
It all started with a simple observation in the heart of the busy kitchen of Terme Sveti Martin. We realized that the edible oils we use in the preparation of delicious dishes are often thrown away after use. Inspired by the global movement towards sustainability, we looked for innovative ways to repurpose this oil. This is how the idea of making scented candles from waste oil was born – a project that combines creativity, sustainability and a touch of aromatic luxury.
Advantages and the bigger picture
Creating scented candles from waste oils isn’t just a fun and crafty activity – it’s a step towards a more sustainable future. By converting used cooking oil, we reduce waste and create something that brings joy and peace to your homes. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to spread awareness of sustainable practices. At Terme Sveti Martin, we believe that every small action is important. By turning what was once waste into something valuable and beautiful, we light the way to a greener and more sustainable world. So, the next time you finish sauteing those delicious vegetables or grilling that perfect steak, remember – your leftover oil has the potential to become a fragrant beacon of sustainability.
Recipe for a scented candle
Are you ready to embark on your candle making journey? Here’s how you can turn that leftover cooking oil into 6 beautiful and fragrant candles.
Ingredients:
- 500 g of soy wax
- 2 cups of waste oil
- essential oil of your choice
- a cooker in which a metal or glass container can be placed (a pizza oven can be used)
- metal or glass refractory container
- coffee filter
- candle holder, wick
Step by step guide:
Strain and filter the oil: Begin by straining the used cooking oil through a fine strainer to remove larger food particles. For extra pure oil, filter it through a coffee filter. Melt the wax: Fill your kettle with water and heat it up. Place the wax in a metal or fireproof glass container and pour the filtered oil over it. Mix everything together slowly until the wax melts and melts with the oil.
Add fragrance and colors: Add your favorite essential oil to the mixture (you get a plus if you get one that is produced in an ecological way, and be sure to check with the seller before buying how it reacts in contact with flame), minimum 70ml or less if you work with a smaller amount wax and oil. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of fragrance. Put natural colors in the mixture, for example turmeric for orange, coffee for brown, spirulina powder for blue, and the like, then mix everything gently until it melts and takes on the desired color. Prepare the containers: While the wax and oil mixture is liquid, prepare the candle containers. Place a wick in the center of each container, securing it with a wick centering device or using a little melted wax at the bottom.
Pour the wax: Carefully pour the wax mixture into the containers, leaving some space at the top. Allow the candles to cool and harden at room temperature. Trim the wicks: After the candles have hardened, trim the wicks to the desired length. Enjoy your candles: Light your homemade scented candles and enjoy the warm, fragrant glow. You’ve just turned kitchen waste into a sustainable product!
Happy candle making everyone! Let your creations be a shining point of commitment to preserving our planet.