The early 1970s was a time of rebellion, self-discovery, and simplicity for many who chose to step away from mainstream society. For me, it was the era of my hippie life, a time marked by creativity, simplicity, and a sense of freedom. Among the many ventures that defined those years, making sand candles stands out as a particularly vivid and cherished memory. It wasn’t just about crafting something beautiful—it was about embracing a way of life that valued connection, creativity, and living simply with my wife and our young children.
Life was simple back then, but it was rich in its own way. My wife and I chose to live without many of the trappings of the modern world, finding joy in the little things and focusing on the present moment. Our days revolved around caring for our young children, exploring our creativity, and making enough to get by. We didn’t need much, and what we did have, we shared with others in our community.
Our home wasn’t luxurious by any means, but it was filled with love, laughter, and the scent of melted wax from my candle-making projects. The simplicity of our life taught us to appreciate beauty in everyday moments—whether it was the sparkle of a sunset or the joy of shaping something with our hands.
The Art of Sand Candles
Making sand candles became my creative outlet and a source of income. The process itself was mesmerizing, almost meditative. With just a few simple materials—wax, wicks, dyes, and sand—I could create something entirely unique every time. The best part? No two candles ever came out exactly the same.
The Process
1. Finding the Perfect Sand: I’d begin by scouting for the right type of sand, usually at the beach. It needed to be fine enough to hold the shape but sturdy enough to form the perfect mold.
2. Creating the Mold: Using my hands, I would shape the sand into a variety of forms—bowls, spirals, or abstract freeform designs. The sand itself was a canvas, and every scoop or curve carried a touch of spontaneity.
3. Pouring the Wax: Melted wax, often infused with colors and sometimes fragrant oils, would be carefully poured into the sandy molds. Watching the hot liquid transform into a solid piece of art was a kind of magic.
4. Adding the Wick: The wick was placed precisely in the center, ready to bring the candle to life once lit.
5. Cooling and Unveiling: After cooling, the sand was brushed away to reveal the textured, earthy surface of the finished candle.
Each candle held the imprint of the sand it was cast in, a tangible reminder of the beach or patch of earth where it was made.
The swap meet was where the magic of candle-making met the hustle and bustle of community life. We would load up our modest collection of handcrafted candles and head out, ready to share our creations with the world.
The atmosphere of the swap meet was electric—a mix of vendors, families, and wanderers, all coming together in a patchwork of color and sound. My wife and I would set up a simple table, sometimes with our children playing nearby, and display the candles for passersby.
The swap meet wasn’t just about selling; it was about connecting. People would stop to admire the candles, often drawn to their rustic charm and natural textures. Conversations would spring up—about the process, about life, about shared experiences. Those connections were as valuable as the few dollars we earned.
Looking back, the sand candles were more than just a product—they were a reflection of our values and a means of sustaining our simple way of life. That time taught me several lessons that still resonate today:
1. Creativity Thrives in Simplicity: When life is pared down to the essentials, creativity blossoms. The freedom to explore and express without the distractions of modern clutter allowed me to craft something meaningful.
2. Community Matters: The swap meets reminded me that life is richer when shared. Whether through conversations or the exchange of handmade goods, those connections brought joy and meaning to our days.
3. Beauty Is Everywhere: From the grains of sand to the glow of a finished candle, the beauty of creation was a constant reminder to find joy in the small things.
Carrying the Spirit Forward
Although the years of making sand candles are far behind me, the spirit of that time lingers. I still value simplicity, creativity, and the connections forged through shared experiences. Those candles, crafted with care and shaped by the earth itself, were more than just objects—they were symbols of a way of life that cherished the beauty in imperfection and the joy in doing something with love.
Now, whenever I see a candle flickering, I’m reminded of those days. They were simple, yet profoundly meaningful, shaped by the joy of living lightly and creatively with the people I loved most. And even now, that flame of inspiration continues to burn bright.
