How to Make a Clay Candle Holder

So here you are searching for the perfect gift for a friend, a family member or a lover. A personalized clay candle holder might be the answer. A candle can lend an ambiance that a light bulb simply can't match--and it can shine snugly in a candle holder you made yourself!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dry Clay
• Dextrine
• Candle
• Paint

1. Make a round ball of clay. Softly press one side of the ball onto a hard surface, creating a flat edge at the bottom of the ball. This is the bottom of your candle holder.

2. Using your thumb and pointing finger, shape the bottom of the ball into a rim that goes all the way around. This rim will eventually serve the purpose of catching hot, dripping wax. When you are finished, the rim should look like a small plate or bowl under the ball.

3. Press a candle firmly into the center of the clay ball until it is about a quarter-inch from the bottom.

4. Softly remove the candle from the clay ball, preserving its indentation.

5. Wait for the candle holder to dry. Once dry, add Dextrine as instructed by the Dextrine package. This will cause your candle holder to harden without the necessity of firing it in a kiln.

6. Paint the outside as desired. I'd suggest using enamel, though regular poster paint works well, too.

Tips & Warnings

• Both dry clay and Dextrine can be found at any good craft or art store.
• Be creative--a ball is just one of many shapes to choose from.
• Don't be careless in handling the clay candle holder. It will be fragile!