candles Archives - Whit & Wick, part of Wobbly Pins Ltd

Summer Glow of Citronella

ocin3t Candles July 31, 2019candles, citronella, essential oils, insect repellant, natrual, outdoors, summer evening 0 Comment

So we are at the height of summer in the UK and with it comes the usual range of insects to nibble you in the evening glow.

So what is the alternative to getting bitten? Stay indoors or light up a candle that wards of the little blighters whilst you enjoy your evening of cold Pinot Grigio ( other beverages available).

So what does deter the insects and can it be done naturally?. Most outdoor insect repellent candles control DEET or if you are really clever N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide. DEET was developed by Samuel Gertler for use by the United States Army following its experience of jungle warfare during World War II and was originally tested as a pesticide on farm fields.

So whilst the mosquitos intensely dislike the smell it is also not so pleasant for us humans so I though I would look for an alternative to make up some summer candles myself.

There are many recipes available on the old interweb thing – it is down to which fragrance you like. I have added Essential oils in combinations of Citronella, Clove, Peppermint, and Cedarwood, Eucalyptus and Lemongrass. With my pale skin I am a natural target for the bugs but have found with a natural candle burning the bites are getting less.

I am of to light a candle and have a glass of something cold whilst the sun goes down……enjoy your summer and watch out for the flying ants.

Farmers Markets – Egypt to Market Bosworth

ocin3t Candles, Soap March 31, 2019beeswax, candles, farmers market, handmade, local business, soap 0 Comment

The Farmers Market

Did you know Farmers markets date all the way back to Egypt over 5, 000 years ago?. Traditionally the farmers along the length of the Nile joined together to sell their wares. Traditionally the markets would be fruit, vegtables, meats and grains however the markets existed in countries worldwide and reflects local culture and economy. The first farmers market in the UK was established in 1997 and there are now over 500 nationwide.

The Grocery Store

The grocery store, or corner shop started to appear in the 1800’s and as they became popular and also started to offer ‘home delivery’ via the boy on the bicycle the trips to the farmers markets began to reduce. Over the last few years there now appears to be a trend of people shopping again at their local market.

They wan to know where the food or product comes from and meet the owner of the food they are eating – with the introduction of Farm To Fork.

Fresh Soap & Beeswax Candles

So amongst the other products seen at the markets, flowers, bread, pastries, beers, jams and cheese there is also a growing trend for local soap makers and bee products. Years ago farmers wives would have made soap from tallow, goats milk and beeswax and these traditions are continued today.

I have now had a stall at the local farmers market for over a year and there is a lovely community feel with the traders and customers alike. It is a great opportunity to chat with people and explain the process that goes into making the soap and beeswax candles and where I source my ingredients from.

So if you see me on the stall- stop and have a chat….