Crafts are a multifaceted learning opportunity, requiring skills in math, reading, following directions, and sometimes science. Learning takes place during the craft processes, but your house will quickly fill up if you keep all the masterpieces. Thus, the problem becomes what to do with all the end products. The opening of a small museum in place of the family office was met with a quick veto from my husband.

Our family's solution is now to choose projects that have a useful end product. Candle making--problem solved! We still get to have fun and learn, but we end up with something to use or give as a gift. The Make Your Own Candle Kit from Homestead Originals comes with everything you need, so there will be no need for that 8:55 craft store run to complete your project. The kit even has a gift bag you can decorate and a piece of ribbon.

If you're like me, words like homestead or candle making bring thoughts of Little House on the Prairie. However nostalgic this may seem, my next thought is "Can I do this?" As a Florida girl in the suburbs who believes that opening a can or box counts as cooking, I had my doubts. No worries! Just ten simple steps and you have a handcrafted candle.

Educationally, this candle kit could be used as part of a unit study or to add "life" to a history or science lesson. Moreover, the possibilities for research are unlimited.

Lastly, an important health note from the Homestead: "Homestead Originals Candles are made of all natural compounds that release NO toxins when burned. Their wax burns cooler, longer, and safer."

Product review by: Stephanie D. Scarborough, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, August 2007.