The Practically Free Survival Candle Stove

by Jack Flintstone
(California)

I don't know where I saw this, I hope I didn't see it on this site and if I did feel free to delete this. It is just a good idea that I thought I would pass along. If you or your family burn candles, save the dregs and the duds to make these super low tech survival candle/stoves that will work when you need them. They are extremely easy to make and all you need is a can, some cardboard and molten wax. If possible, use a can opener that cuts the sides so the top becomes a lid. Melt the candle wax in their jars, in a pan of water on the stove. Cut a strip of cardboard long enough so it will wind around the can a couple of times and be just lower than the top edge of the can. Roll up the cardboard and put it into the can, pour in the wax and you are done. Don't pour the wax to the top of the cardboard or you won't be able to light it...keep some cardboard sticking up.

If you use scented wax it may be nasty for cooking or making coffee (or maybe not?). It turns into a campfire in a can and will put up a pretty big flame when all the cardboard surfaces get going - so be careful. To put the candle out, just put on the lid. They last a long time and put out some light; they can also be used to cook or boil water in a pinch. The flame and the liquified hot wax can be dangerous should the can spill. But they store well and are practically free to make, if you burn candles. I don't have many of these candle stoves in storage yet, but I don't throw away the remnants of candles anymore.