Expert: Nanetta Bananto - 8/29/2002

Question
Nanett:

I am going to glue colored sand onto some pillar candles to create table numbers for my wedding tables. I was hoping to spray something onto the sand so that the sand would not rub off. Do you have any suggestions? Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

Laura

Answer
Dear Laura - This is the only candle glue I have found.  When you are working with candles, you must be careful about flammablity, so you don't want to seal it with something that could catch fire, especially with a spray on fixative, which could ignite.  Most of that is lacquer based.   I think if you glue it on with this special glue, it should be okay.  When dry, lightly dust it with a wide, soft paint brush.  If needed, add another coat.  Also if you are using sand, you will want the matte finish of sand and spray will make it crusty looking.  If the candle is large enough, you can add decorative items by melting wax in a double boiler.
Let's say you cut numbers out of gold foil paper, (available at crafts stores), apply with the glue or to a coat of melted wax to adhere, then coat with another layer to seal. Then, you could dip the lower portion of the candle in the melted wax and into a waiting bowl or cookie sheet of sand.  Sand will stick beautifully onto the candles this way.  You could line the cookie sheet with non stick parchment or wax paper.  If you use a bowl and it gets wax in it, stick it in a moderate oven on a cookie sheet until the wax melts and then wipe away with a paper towel.  Also, you might be on the lookout for embossed gold numbers to try this with.  I have seen them, but not sure where to get them.  

http://gelcandlesupply.safeshopper.com/93/916.htm?593

http://www.hgtv.com/HGTV/project/0,1158,FOLI_project_22803,00.html

http://familycrafts.about.com/library/projects/blalisoncandle.htm

Ooooh! Here's another thought!  What about doing the numbers in rhinestones, pearls or studs?  They would be lovely.  Rhinestones-glue or get the little bezels with prongs, pearls-stick in with pins, studs-come with prongs. I am guessing you want to use the sand as a theme?  It would go well with any of these.  And think how they would catch the light.  Let me know if you need any further help.  Good luck.  Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to experiment so the wedding is just FUN and Magical for you.  Nanetta