Everybody loves candles. Nobody loves Yankee Candle, and are you kidding me, America? Of COURSE it’s in stock. It looks like cotton candy and smells like Vegas. That jar belongs at Major Thrift. The candle is the one thing left that could restore your reputation, and you’re destroying it.

When they’re not awful, candles are wonderful. Most of them cost less than a cup of coffee and at nighttime, they take fifteen years off your face. I’ve only experienced two fires, so really, there’s nothing to lose.

Here’s a fun DIY project, and aren’t they all? Forget about the fact that you could have gone to medical school in the time it took you to scrapbook your vacation to Branson, because it feels good to make stuff. Yes, I live in France, but people actually visit Branson. And probably scrapbook about it.

First, you’ll want to gather some glass containers. I’ve used a spare set of cordial glasses, because I’m Madeline and I have a ton, but anything small and lovely will do. Pull together some soy candle wax, wicks, your containers, a hot glue gun, and I’m sure you have all of this on hand. Next, grab a a double boiler, food thermometer, oven mitts, and fragrance oil. Got all that? Good.

Now melt the wax. A good rule of thumb is about 6 ounces for small containers, 12-14 ounces for large ones. Drop it into your double boiler and set to low/medium-low heat. Do NOT go lounge. Be responsible. This may take awhile, so read some Proust to your children or something. Go ahead and attach the wick to the bottom of your container with some hot glue. Hold it there until it dries, and stop being impatient.

Once the wax has melted, add 1/2 teaspoon of fragrance oil and allow everything to cool to between 120 and 140F. Pour it into the containers, let it harden, and trim the wick. You’re done, and how fun was that?

Bisous, M.