1. Candle Holders
1.1 Glass Jar Candle Holders
Transform your ordinary glass jars into stunning candle holders. Start with clean, empty glass jars—mason jars work particularly well. Opt for textured spray paint for a chic finish or wrap them in twine or burlap for a rustic look. Fill each jar with decorative rocks or marbles and place a tealight or votive candle inside. For added flair, you can embed fragrant herbs such as lavender or rosemary in the rocks for a subtle scent.
1.2 Wooden Candle Holders
Crafting wooden candle holders is a satisfying DIY project. Select a piece of wood and cut it into the desired shapes. Sand it down for a smooth finish, then drill holes to fit your candles snugly. To personalize, paint or stain the wood. Always seal with a non-toxic finish to protect your candles from errant wax drips. Use different types of wood to create a variety of looks.
1.3 Concrete Candle Holders
Concrete candle holders provide a modern aesthetic. Mix concrete according to package instructions and pour it into molds, such as silicone baking pans or cups. Insert a smaller container in the center to form the candle space. Once set, you can paint or stain the outside for decorative purposes. Concrete naturally absorbs heat, making it an ideal material for holding candles.
2. Candle Snuffers
2.1 Upcycled Spoon Snuffer
A unique, eco-friendly candle snuffer can be made from a vintage spoon. Simply bend the handle at a 90-degree angle for a comfortable grip. The spoon’s rounded end is perfect for snuffing candles without creating soot or wax drips besides providing an old-world charm.
2.2 DIY Wooden Snuffer
Using a small scrap of wood, such as a dowel or a piece from an old cutting board, carve out a snuffer. Create a bell shape on one end that effectively covers the candle wick, extinguishing the flame without fuss. You can sand it for a smooth finish, and personalize with paint or wood burning techniques.
3. Candle Trays
3.1 Mirrored Trays
Mirrored trays not only elevate your candle display but also add depth and elegance to your decor. Use an old picture frame without the glass as the base. Adhere mirror tiles to the frame’s base with strong adhesive. Once transparent, place candles and decorative stones or flowers for an eye-catching centerpiece.
3.2 Rustic Wooden Trays
Create a rustic wooden tray for a cozy aesthetic. Use reclaimed wood for sustainability and cut it into your desired shape. Assemble the pieces using wood glue, and finish with a clear coat or a stain. This tray can hold multiple candles, flowers, or seasonal decorations, making it a versatile piece for your home.
4. Candle Labels and Tags
4.1 Printable Labels
Customization goes beyond the candle’s scent and color. Design printable labels with the candle’s name or a personal message. Use free design tools to format your text and add graphics. Print onto sticker paper and cut them out for a polished look. Not only do labels serve a practical purpose, but they also add a personal touch.
4.2 Seed Paper Tags
Create eco-friendly seed paper tags that bloom into flowers once planted. Use leftover paper, blend it with water to create pulp, and mix in wildflower seeds. Once dry, cut the paper into tags where you can write your candle details. Attach them to your candles with natural twine for an organic, sustainable accessory.
5. Candle Scents
5.1 Scented Sachets
Make scented sachets that complement your candles. Use small fabric bags and fill them with dried herbs, flowers, and essential oils. Lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus sachets are excellent choices. Place them alongside your candles for a fragrant touch that enhances the overall sensory experience.
5.2 DIY Scent Infusion
Introduce scents into your candle accessories by infusing oils. Combine carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil, with essential oils in a glass bottle that resembles a teardrop shape. Keep it near your candles to subtly blend the fragrances during the burning process. This method adds a layer of personalization to your home environment.
6. Candle Stands
6.1 Tiered Candle Stand
Build a tiered candle stand using round wooden boards and a central rod. Secure the boards at varying heights to create visual interest. Sand the edges and paint or stain it for finishing. This stand allows for grouping different candle heights, creating ambiance and sophistication.
6.2 Repurposed Candlestick Holders
Transform old candlestick holders into contemporary candle stands by adapting their finishes. You could paint them in modern colors, wrap them with twine, or even incorporate modern design elements, like geometric shapes. These repurposed holders can add character and history to your candle decor.
7. Candle Decor
7.1 Seasonal Embellishments
Decorate your candles according to seasons. For fall, layer around your candles some pinecones, acorns, and mini pumpkins. For winter, you might use greenery, faux snow, and silver accents. Customize your candle decor to reflect holiday themes or even specific celebrations to maintain a festive atmosphere.
7.2 Fabric Wraps
Upcycle fabric swatches for a chic candle wrap. Use burlap or patterned fabric and simply wrap it around the base of the candle, securing it with twine or ribbon. This accessory adds texture and color while allowing for easy changes depending on your decor theme.
8. Candles as Centerpieces
8.1 Layered Candle Displays
Layer your candles for a striking centerpiece. Use varying heights and sizes, placing smaller candles on pedestals or within glass cloches. Combine candles of different colors that complement one another for a stunning visual contrast. Surround with matching decorative elements like stones or crystals for cohesiveness.
8.2 Greenery Accents
Incorporate plants and greenery into your candle displays. Use small potted succulents or fresh herbs arranged around the candle base. You could also create a wreath, or an arrangement of faux foliage that cradles the candles. This not only brings life into your decor but promotes a calming, organic atmosphere.
9. Candle Safety Accessories
9.1 Heat Resistant Mats
Manufacture heat resistant mats from cork or silicone mats for your candles. These protect surfaces from heat damage and wax spills. Cut the mats to fit under larger candles or create fun shapes that align with your decor theme. Using bold colors or patterns can also enhance the aesthetic appeal.
9.2 Candle Wick Trimmers
Craft custom wick trimmers from a small, handheld scissor or a needle nose pliers. Decorate or paint the handles to match your theme. Trimming wicks before lighting candles promotes optimal performance, ensuring cleaner, brighter burns.
10. Personalization Techniques
10.1 Custom Wax Stamps
For a sophisticated touch, consider creating custom wax stamps with your initials or a meaningful symbol. Melt wax and press your stylized stamp onto the surface of a candle for a unique signature. This adds elegance and sophistication to simplistic designs.
10.2 Spray Paint Designs
Experiment with spray paint designs on your candles. Use painter’s tape to create geometric patterns and block areas for spray paint. Ensure to use heat-resistant paint to avoid hazardous reactions when candles are lit. Uniquely painted candles can also serve as stunning art pieces in their own right.
11. Candle Aroma Diffusers
11.1 DIY Aroma Diffuser
Create a simple aroma diffuser using residual wax and essential oils. Melt wax scraps in a double boiler, and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Pour the mixture into a dish with cotton wicks. As the wax cools, it will hold the scent for a long time. Use it by placing near a heat source for an aromatic ambiance.
11.2 Terracotta Aroma Diffusers
Craft small terracotta dishes that absorb essential oils. Simply roll out terracotta clay and shape into shallow bowls. Once air-dried and baked, use them to store a few drops of your preferred oils. The porous nature of terracotta will diffuse the scent into your home as an alternative to traditional diffusers.
Incorporating these innovative DIY candle accessory ideas into your home will enhance your atmosphere and allow you to express creativity in a unique way. Whether it’s through elegant candle holders or personalized labels, transforming ordinary candles into stylish decor will impress your guests and heighten your enjoyment of ambiance lighting.
