You just had your Hardscape Patio installed and absolutely love it, but you are now wondering how you can protect your new outdoor space from pest while you’re out enjoying it.
Everyone loves a good DIY project. Not only is it cost efficient, but you can personalize your project to your specific taste. Bailey Construction and Landscape Group, Inc. has pulled together a DIY project that anyone can do to decorate their new hardscape addition.
Homemade Citronella Candles:
Mosquitos (and bugs in general) can make a fun day enjoying the great outdoors a big pain. No one likes the hassle of constantly spraying bug spray and the unnatural chemicals used in store bought citronella candles can’t be good for you to inhale.
You’ll need:
- Containers of some sort (make sure they are a thicker glass but any jar will do or empty candle container)
- Wicks (can be found at any craft store already assembled)
- Wax (soy works best for these or a blend of soy/paraffin)
- Citronella essential oil
- Scissors
REMEMBER: PLEASE USE CAUTION TO PREVENT BURNS. THIS IS JUST A GUIDE
Steps:
- Melt your wax (16 oz. or 1 lb) using a double boiler. Heat wax.
- Add Citronella fragrance / essential oil. (I use to make candles & usually used 1 oz scent to 16 oz of wax) When adding fragrance, stir well and remove from heat. Do not let fragranced wax continue to heat as the fragrance will evaporate out of the wax.
- While the wax is cooling, place a wick on the bottom your jar in the center. You can wrap the top of the wick with a pencil or stcik to insure it won’t move and stay centered. You can also buy glue dots and place the wick on them at the bottom of the jar too.
- When the wax has cooled a for a bit (if it is hardening it’s been too long) I use to wait say 5 minutes and then pour it in. The wax will still be extremly hot at that point still so be careful.
- For best results, let the candles cool at room temperature overnight.
- Trim wick to 1/4 in. before lighting. (do this each time you light it) and enjoy your candle!
