How To Make Candles With Money Inside?

 How to Make Candles with Money Inside: A Fun and Unique Craft Idea

Candles have always been a favourite for creating ambience, setting the mood, and adding charm to any space. But what if you could take this classic decor item one step further by incorporating a hidden surprise inside? Making candles with money inside is a fun and creative way to blend the warm glow of candles with the thrill of a hidden treasure. Whether you're planning to make candles as gifts, for a special event, or just for a bit of fun, this unique project adds an element of excitement and novelty. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make candles with money inside.

Materials You’ll Need

Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary materials. You can find most of them at your local craft store or online:

1. Wax: You can choose from different types of wax, such as paraffin, soy, or beeswax. Soy wax is a great option for beginners because it's easy to work with and has a clean burn.
2. Candle Wicks: Wicks come in various sizes depending on the candle size. Choose the right one based on the size of the candle you want to make.
3. Money: Small bills, preferably new ones, are the most practical for this project. You can also use coins or even small items like charms, but bills are easier to handle and fit into the mould.
4. Candle Molds: You can use metal, silicone, or glass moulds. If you don’t have a mould, you can also use an old candle container or any container that can withstand the heat of the melted wax.
5. Dye and Fragrance (optional): If you want to add colour or a scent to your candles, use candle dye or fragrance oils.
6. Heatproof Containers: For holding the money while the wax hardens.
7. Thermometer: For monitoring the temperature of the wax as it melts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Money

The first step in making a candle with money inside is to prepare the money. Since you're adding money to a candle, it’s important to ensure that the money won’t be damaged by the hot wax.

1. Roll or Fold the Money: Start by rolling the money into a tight tube or folding it in a small, compact form. Ensure that the size of the folded bill fits inside the mould without too much room. You can also use a small piece of parchment or tissue paper to wrap the money, as this can protect the bills from getting too soiled or burnt.

2. Wrap in a Protective Material: If you’re using folded bills, wrap them in a small piece of heat-resistant parchment paper to protect them from direct contact with the wax. If the bills are rolled, the wax will likely only touch the exterior, so this step might not be necessary.

Step 2: Melt the Wax

Next, you need to melt the wax. Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Heat the Wax: Place your wax in a double boiler setup. A double boiler consists of a pot filled with water and another container (like a heatproof glass or metal bowl) sitting on top of it. The wax is placed in the top container, which is heated by the steam from the water below. This method ensures that the wax doesn’t burn or overheat.

2. Monitor the Temperature: Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the wax. Most waxes should be melted to around 170-180°F (77-82°C), but check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific wax.

3. Add Color and Scent (Optional): Once the wax is melted, you can add colour and fragrance if desired. Add candle dye according to the instructions for the amount of wax you're using. For fragrance, add the oil when the wax is about 185°F (85°C) to ensure it binds properly with the wax.

Step 3: Set the Wick in the Mold

While the wax is melting, prepare your mould.

1. Attach the Wick: Secure the wick in the centre of the mould. You can do this by dipping the wick's metal base in the melted wax and sticking it to the bottom of the mould. Alternatively, use a wick holder or adhesive to keep it centred.

2. Ensure the Wick Stays in Place: Once the wick is attached, you can use a skewer or a pencil to hold the wick in place while the wax sets. Just make sure it’s taut and centred.

Step 4: Place the Money in the Mold

Now comes the exciting part—adding the money!

1. Position the Money: Place your wrapped money or rolled bills into the mould, positioning it somewhere within the wax. Make sure it’s not touching the sides of the mould, as it could be exposed to excessive heat. You want the money to be hidden within the middle layers of the candle, so place it somewhere near the middle.

2. Secure the Money: Ensure the money is properly secured so that it won’t move when you pour the wax. This will also help keep it from getting damaged. It’s best to place it gently, without pushing too hard, so you don't cause any creases or bends.

Step 5: Pour the Wax

Once the wax is ready and the money is in place, it’s time to pour the wax into the mould.

1. Pour the Wax Slowly: Gently pour the melted wax into the mould around the money, leaving a bit of space at the top to avoid spilling over. Be careful not to pour the wax directly onto the money as this can cause it to stick to the wax.

2. Pour in Layers: If you want to ensure the money stays in place and avoid it floating to the top, you can pour the wax into layers. Pour a small amount of wax, let it set for a few minutes, and then add more wax. This process will help create even layers, keeping the money securely embedded.

Step 6: Allow the Wax to Set

After pouring the wax, you’ll need to let it set.

1. Cool the Wax: Allow the wax to cool at room temperature. Don’t try to speed up the process by placing the mould in the fridge or freezer, as this can cause the wax to crack. The cooling process usually takes a few hours, but you can check to see if the wax is firm by gently pressing on it.

2. Top Off the Candle: If you notice that the top of the candle has uneven edges or cracks, you can top it off with a little extra melted wax once the candle has cooled slightly but is still soft.

Step 7: Remove the Candle from the Mold

Once the wax has cooled completely and hardened, you can remove the candle from the mould.

1. Carefully Remove the Candle: Gently remove the candle from the mould. If you used a silicone mould, this should be easy, but for harder moulds, you may need to carefully work the edges free.

2. Trim the Wick: Trim the wick to about half an inch above the surface of the candle. This will ensure it burns properly.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Candle with a Hidden Surprise!

Now that your candle is complete, you can light it up and watch as the wax melts away to reveal the hidden money inside!

• Reveal the Surprise: As the candle burns down, the money will gradually become exposed. Make sure to keep the candle in a safe place where the wax can melt without causing a mess.

• Consider Safety: Keep in mind that this project involves an open flame. Never leave the candle unattended while burning, and make sure children or pets don’t have access to it.

Tips and Tricks

1. Use Small Amounts of Money: For best results, use small bills (e.g., $1 bills) rather than large ones. Larger bills may not fit well in smaller moulds.
2. Wrap the Money Tightly: Ensure the money is secure and won’t get damaged while the wax is poured. Wrapping it in parchment paper can prevent any burning or soiling.
3. Avoid Using Loose Change: Coins may not burn well inside the wax and can be difficult to retrieve once the candle burns down.

Conclusion

Candles with money inside are an exciting craft project that blends creativity and fun, making them a great gift idea or a unique addition to your own decor. The process of making these candles is relatively simple, and you can personalize them with your favourite scents, colours, and even hidden treasures. Whether you're creating them for birthdays, holidays, or just because, these candles offer a delightful surprise that everyone will love. Enjoy the warm glow, the hidden treasure, and the joy of watching someone discover the money inside!