Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

Painted Owl Candle

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painted owl candleI bought an old candle making kit because it included some funky plastic candle molds like an owl and a mushroom. It looks like it’s from the 70s as the box is intact and the family depicted resembles the Brady Bunch.

Shown here is my completed painted owl candle. (In case anyone wants to grab some acrylic paint, Craft Smart paint is 50% off this week at Michaels!)

The owl candle mold was easy to set up because it included clamps and a stand. The clamps and the stand simply slide into place and I was relieved that none of the wax leaked out.

I’ve done without a stand before, but it’s not always pretty. One of my candle making books suggested inserting the mold into sand if you don’t have a stand, so I’ll try that next time. It would be good to have that extra support on the larger molds.

Does anyone else use anything other than a stand? I’ve used books and chunks of wax, but I’m open to suggestions. If you always use mold stands, where do you purchase them?

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – Pottery Travel Mug Template Set (3 Pieces)

There’s something so satisfying about a handmade travel mug. It’s practical, stylish, and makes your daily coffee or tea ritual feel that little bit more special. With this set of 3 pottery travel mug templates, you can create your own ceramic mugs that not only look professional but also make thoughtful, personal gifts.

What’s Included

This set comes with three different templates for slab-building your own travel mugs. Each template has slightly different proportions, giving you variety in size and style. That way you can experiment until you find the perfect fit for your hand—or make a matching set for family and friends.

Why These Templates Are Worth It

  • Reusable & Reliable: Print and trace them as many times as you want.

  • Practical Design: The angled opening and lid slot make them comfortable and functional.

  • Perfect for Beginners: Templates take the guesswork out of hand-building.

  • Gift-Worthy: A handmade travel mug is a unique, eco-friendly present that anyone would appreciate.

Inspiration for Makers

  • Try a speckled clay body with a matte glaze for a modern, minimalist vibe.

  • Add underglaze designs or decals for a personalized look.

  • Make a full set of mugs in coordinating colors—perfect for a couple or family gift.

  • Pair your finished mugs with a bag of specialty coffee or tea for a beautiful handmade gift set.

Why You’ll Love It

Handmade pottery mugs have a warmth and character that no store-bought cup can compete with. Using these templates makes the process approachable, while still leaving plenty of room for your creativity to shine. And honestly? Everyone I know could use a good travel mug—so why not make one that feels personal and one-of-a-kind?

You can grab the set here: Travel Mugs Set Templates (3 Pieces) on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I share clay tools and templates that make creating both functional and decorative pottery easier and more fun. And if you’re looking for a project that balances everyday use with handmade charm, these travel mugs might be your next go-to.