frankie exclusive diy: love stinks candles

If the idea of celebrating Valentine's Day with red roses, chocolates and cheesy poems makes you roll your eyes and gag a little, then this project may be just the thing for you. Make yourself (or a Cupid-hating mate) a scented broken heart candle and say a big "love stinks!" to Valentine's Day.



MATERIALS:

coloured candle wax (you can buy wax from craft stores, but why not try reusing an old candle you have lying around the house?)
glass bowl
small saucepan
skewer
chopping board
knife
tea towel
scented oil of your choice
2 candle wicks
heart-shaped silicone mould (baking moulds are perfect!)



INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Chop the candle up into little segments (remove the wick as you chop) and place in the bowl.



2. Fill 3/4 of the saucepan with water and bring to boil. Place the bowl on top of the saucepan and allow the wax to melt completely. Use the skewer to break the pieces up as they melt.



3. Remove the bowl from the saucepan using a tea towel, as the glass may be very hot. Use the skewer to stir in a few drops of scented oil. Carefully pour the melted wax into the silicone mould and place the two candle wicks into the wax, in equal positions on either side of the heart. Allow the wax to cool and set completely.



4. Once the wax has set, carefully peel away the silicone mould to reveal your candle.



5. Use the knife to cut a zig-zag line down the centre of the candle, separating it into two heartbroken pieces.



You can package up your broken heart candles as little gifts to give to pals in need of a bit of anti-Valentine's cheer.