Summer is usually synonymous with cocktails by the pool or by the beach, cooling off. Here’s an idea to add shimmer to those balmy nights—golden shell tea lights.

You will need:

Deep scallop shells (Pectin meridionales), available at Rustan’s

Tea light candles

Spray paint (enamel or automotive) in gold or silver

Brown shoe polish

Cotton ball

Tweezers

Frying pan

Water

Procedure:

Clean and dry scallop shells.

Spray the outer part of the shell with paint and let dry.

Dip cotton ball into shoe polish and rub on the ridges of the shell. Repeat the whole process on other side. This gives a little drama to the gold.

Put about three tablespoons of water in a frying pan and put two to three tea light candles in it. Make sure water level is about half the height of the tea light.

Put over low heat, bringing to a simmer.

Once the wax inside the tin is completely melted, take the pan off the fire.

Lift the wick with your tweezers and position at the center of your shell.

Using the tweezers, lift the tin and gently pour the wax into the shell.

Let wax harden.

Tip:

For a brighter accent, you can use bright neon-color spray paint instead of gold or silver.