do it yourself

Lavender Soy Candles

For the love of lavender – I am in heaven! This weekend’s market haul included some amazing dried bunches and sachets of lavender + some essential oils (lavender included of course!).Lavender

I am always on the hunt for beautiful all-natural soy candles and am often floored by the cost of one single candle. Soy candles are non-toxic, made up of natural vegetables, generally burn longer and cleaner – releasing very little soot and no carcinogens.Lavender Soy CandlesThe lovely lavender man at the Guelph Farmer’s Market, inspired me to finally make my own soy candles. Off I went to collect supplies and give it a shot.  And let me tell you it couldn’t have been any easier! Do note: supplies aren’t on the cheap side but I also didn’t bargain shop (bought wax, wicks and twine at Michaels). However, supplies are much cheaper than buying 6 soy candles at your local retailer.

For 5-6 candles (depending on size) here is what you need:

  • 4 lbs of soy wax flakes
  • glass measuring cup
  • essential oils
  • 6 candle wicks
  • 6 jars (I used mason jars)
  • 6 wood skewers
  • glue gun
  • dried lavender (in this particular case)
  • ribbon or twine to decorate jar

Candle Supplies

  1. Centre and glue the wick to the bottom of the jar. (Minimal glue is needed but if you wanted to keep these all-natural, you could secure the wick with melted wax and letting it dry. I thought of this after the fact and was trying to be as quick as possible with this project).
  2. Microwave wax flakes on high in for 8-10 minutes, keep an eye on them and give them a stir if needed. Add an extra minute or two if needed. (Timing will vary on the size of measuring cup + amount of wax used).
  3. While wax is melting, wrap the wick around a wood skewer to help keep it centred and straight.
  4. Once the wax is completely melted, add 20-40 drops of essential oil and stir. (add more or less depending on how strong you like your scents)
  5. Stir in dried lavender.
  6. Pour into jars, keeping wick straight.
  7. Once partially cooled, top with additional dried lavender.
  8. Let cool for 10-12 hours, before use.

Soy Candle Making

Soy Candle MakingLavender Soy Candles

Heavenly. xx

Banana Matcha Mask

Everything green is my motto. You can’t go wrong when going green. Whether you are adding greens to your eats, drink or being green through your daily activities. We all win with a little more green in our lives. And now I’m adding greens to my beauty regime.

Naturally, I have been blessed/cursed with dry skin but this winter my skin seems to be EXTRA dry. I’m attributing winter running as a big factor to this. The cold air has not been favourable to say the least; basically my skin has been feeling a bit like the beach lately – without the ice cold cerveza’s and tan lines. 🙂

I am trying to use up all the products I have before I buy anything new, which has led me to DIY facial masks. My latest combination is very simple and mega moisturizing.

Bananas, Matcha, honey and coconut oil are all great ingredients when it comes to natural skincare. Bananas moisturize and hydrate thanks to their potassium content. Once combined with coconut oil and its vitamin E composition – you’re looking at a moisture powerhouse ready to nourish and repair.  Adding raw honey adds the element of a natural antibacterial that cleans out pores. And lastly, adding in the powerful Matcha packed with minerals that will stimulate and energize your skin cells, fighting signs of aging. This is an at home beauty mask that you’ll absolutely love!Banana Matcha Mask Ingredients

  • 1 banana
  • 1.5 tbsp Matcha
  • 1 tbsp raw organic honey
  • 1 tbsp organic coconut oil
  1. Mash banana well with fork until smooth.
  2. Stir in honey and coconut oil until combined.
  3. Mix in Matcha until most lumps are gone. (this is tough, but a few lumps won’t kill anyone)
  4. Evenly apply a thick layer of the mixture to your face. Let it sit for 15 minutes and then rinse gently with lukewarm water.

You’ll likely only need third to half of the mixture, so feel free to half the recipe or eat the remaining half on its own or through it in a shake! 🙂Matcha Mask

Be Green. xx!