Cement Or Plaster Candle Holder
Make a Paper Bag Style Candle Holder
Posted by Bella Nunn
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Turn an old rice packet into a sculptural candle holder, or even a plant pot. You can use either Plaster of Paris or cement for this tutorial. In the images there are examples of white Plaster of Paris pots- the larger one was made from a pasta packet and an old tin, to create a plant pot. The Plaster of Paris is easier to use than cement, so I would recommend this for beginners, but you can use whichever is available to you.
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You Will Need (6 things)
- Plaster of Paris or Cement
- Rice Packet
- Mixing Pot
- Newspaper
- Tea Light
- Piece of String
Steps (9 steps, 210 minutes)
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1
Equipment: You can use cement or Plaster of Paris. You can lay newspaper onto your work surface as it can get messy. You will also need a tea light or a similar candle.
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2
Use around 1-1.5kg of cement, or similar for Plaster of Paris and add to a container. You can add extra cement as you mix it. If possible, wear a dust mask, mix it outside or mix it at arms length.
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3
Mix the cement: Add 1 part cold water to 2 parts cement. It's the same ratio with plaster. Add the water a little at a time and keep mixing. Mix for around 10 minutes, until it becomes a smooth paste.
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4
Get your rice bag ready, making sure it can sit flat on the surface.
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5
Pour in your mixture, gently moving the bag from side-to-side to level it out and get rid of any air bubbles. If there is excess water on top of the mixture, you can soak it up with some tissue.
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6
Before the cement sets, tie some string around the bag, so that once it dries it will keep this shape.
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7
Once the mixture is beginning to set, but is still workable, gently push your tea light into the cement. Then leave it to dry for 24-48hrs for cement, or 24hrs for Plaster of Paris.
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8
Once it's dry, cut the rice bag away from it. Smooth any edges with a damp cloth.
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9
Tie some sting or ribbon around it and now it is complete.