The Simple And Adorable Dollar Tree Hack That'll Make Your Home Smell Amazing
Lighting a candle is a great way to soften the mood and create a relaxing living space, especially after a long day. If you're looking to add to the chill vibe, why not throw a cocktail into the mix? Not the typical kind, though. There are cocktail candles that smell just like yummy drinks, but without the next-day headache. Even Dollar Tree sells Cocktail Scented Candles in little glass jars, with fragrances like Mojito, Moscow Mule, and Martini Espresso. You can take this idea to another level by creating your own cocktail-inspired candles at home. What makes them extra special is that they don't just smell like the real deal — they look like them, too.
If you've seen these types of candles before, you know they don't necessarily go for happy hour prices. Luckily, with a quick trip to your local Dollar Tree and thrift shop, you can pick up most of the supplies for an affordable DIY version. The goal is to make a candle that looks and smells similar to your favorite cocktail. To start, you need bar glasses that fit the theme. You can easily find a variety of cocktail glasses at stores like Goodwill. It's very important to select ones that have a wide rim and are made of thicker glass. You're going to be pouring hot wax into them, and you don't want to risk them breaking.
Here's how to mix up a cocktail candle
This DIY is all about leveling up basic Dollar Tree candles by using the wax from them to create more chic ones. They come in several different colors, like red, blue, green, and black. This Tall Yellow Glass Jar Candle would be excellent for creating a fruity drink version. You're also going to need some fragrance for your candles. If you want to keep them smelling authentic, fragrance oils work well and come in all sorts of citrusy scents. But if you don't have any on hand, you can keep the project inexpensive by grabbing some Dollar Tree Scented Wax Melts for $1.25. It'll still have your home smelling amazing.
The final supply this DIY requires is a package of candle wicks. Fortunately, they're not expensive even though they're not available at Dollar Tree, such as this 100-count package of Zepeloffy Pre-Waxed Cotton Wicks from Amazon for $3.99. Start by taking all the stickers off your Dollar Tree candles, then place them into a double boiler to melt the wax. Keep in mind that if you melt 6 ounces of wax, that means it's enough to make a 6-ounce candle. This will help you determine how many candles you'll need for your cocktail glasses. Drop in either scented wax melts, or add some fragrance oil (ideally when the wax is 185 degrees Fahrenheit).
Time to pour some candles
Get your thrifted glasses all washed up, then attach the bottom of a wick to the center of each one. Lay a stick on top and wrap the wick around it, which will help keep it upright. Then, carefully pour the melted candle wax into your glasses. Let your candles sit overnight so that they can set. If you want to get extra fancy, you can create little cocktail decorations using wax molds or create them out of wax by hand. Finally, trim the wicks.
Once the candles are all dry, you will have the cutest faux cocktail candles that will fill any room with a glorious scent. Place one on your living room table while you're binging your favorite shows, or set a couple on your stylish outdoor bar to play into the theme. It would also be the perfect addition to a relaxing bath. Or, create a special margarita candle for your best friend and give it to her on her birthday. This fun project might be your new obsession.