You will need:
 
• a candle: any size, shape or color
• rubber art-stamps,
  ink, embossing powder
• heat embossing tool
• plain white tissue paper
• sponge for applying water
 

T E C H N I Q U E

1. Plan the design for your candle.

2. Cut a piece of tissue paper to the size of the area you wish to decorate.

3. Stamp, decorate and heat emboss the design on the tissue paper. If you are adding a single small design, cut it out close to the edge of the image. If you are stamping on all-over design, use just one piece of tissue paper cut to measure around the candle without overlapping.

4. Sponge just enough water onto the back of the tissue paper to allow it to stick smoothly onto the surface of the candle. Do not over-wet.

5. Preheat your embossing tool for a moment, then begin to apply heat to the surface of the tissue area. Move the tool uniformly around the area for even heating. First you will see the tissue paper dry out, and then you will see it "disappear" as the heat melts the surface of the candle, causing it to absorb into the tissue. Only your heat embossed design will remain.

S T A M P I N '   T I P S

• Either solid or open designs can be used. Phrases and word stamps work well if they are fairly large and bold.

• Metallic and opaque embossing powders work the best. A color contrast is desired.

• Try adding a small amount of glitter to your embossing powder for extra dazzle.

• Glitter Glue works beautifully for this technique. Allow it to dry completely on the tissue before applying it to the candle.

• Loose Glitter makes an interesting texture. With no tissue paper, apply heat to the surface of the candle until wax begins to melt. Quickly sprinkle glitter onto surface and apply more heat. This is messy and you will have no control over where it goes, but it is very pretty. A tissue image could be applied on top of the glitter layer.

• Experiment on some old candles first to get the feel of it, and then move on to your elegant holiday or party project.