Getting Started with Your Zenorah®
Hanukkah is here! Time to unpack all the goodies that come with your Zenorah® and set up your tray. Here are a few suggestions to help you get started. Beyond that, experiment, play, and see where your creativity takes you. Tomorrow, you can begin again.
Prepare your space. Place the Zenorah on a flat, stable, heat-resistant surface, away from drafts and flammable materials.
Add the sand. Pour the sand into the tray. Picking up the tray and giving it a little shake can help settle the sand. Use the smoother to level it. There is something really delightful in this! Pro tip: You can also use the smoother to create berms and variations in height, adding dimension to your Zenorah® landscape.
Rake. Use the two included rakes to create patterns. The eight-toothed rake can also make circles. Rotate the rake around its pointed end, keeping a light touch on the outer edge. It takes a little practice, but you'll get the hang of it.
Arrange the stones. Position the stone candle holders however you like. Gently nestle them into the sand so they sit level and securely. Since every stone is different you may need to make little adjustments. On the first night, you'll use two stones: The larger shamash stone and another of the eight. Add another stone each night for a whole new arrangement.
Add additional accessories. Your Zenorah® includes glass fire beads, extra stones, moss and a miniature walking bridge. The glass fire beads, in classical element colors of earth, wind and sea, beautifully reflect the candlelight. The other accessories offer fun and imaginative ways to bring your zen garden to life. Just be sure to keep the moss, bridge and any other decorative accessories safely away from the candles and their flames.
Insert your candles. Make sure each candle one fits snugly and stands upright. Hanukkah candles vary in diameter, but candle wax is naturally malleable. For candles that are slightly smaller than the opening, gently press them into place to help them settle securely. For slightly larger candles, the stones act like natural "pencil sharpeners." Gently twist the candle into the holder, allowing the stone to shave away a little excess wax for a snug fit. Don't force a candle that is substantially too large.
Following tradition. If you prefer a traditional Hanukkah candle arrangement, place the candles in a straight line with the Shamash candle separate or at a higher position. Allow candles to burn for at least 30 minutes after nightfall.
Make it your own. Experiment with patterns, arrangements, and spacing. Remember, there's no right or wrong way to express your creativity.
Additional Candle Tips and Safety
Trim the wicks. Keep candle wicks trimmed to approximately ¼ inch before lighting, following the candle manufacturer's instructions. We recommend dripless candles and properly trimmed wicks to help reduce drips.
Give candles room. Keep burning candles safely separated and away from flammable materials, drafts and zen garden accessories.
Never leave burning candles unattended. Allow candles to cool before moving or rearranging them.
This is not a toy. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Removing candle wax. Use the included bamboo pick to remove leftover wax from candle holders. You can also wipe the stones with warm water and mild detergent. Avoid soaking or using an abrasive cleaner which can damage the protective sealant. Some candles, particularly those with high oil content, may leave stains on natural stone.