How to Make an Aspen Candleholder

Candleholders come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and styles. Glass holders are popular, as are naturally based candleholders. Natural products make up a large portion of home product sales, but they can be costly. It is often much simpler and more cost effective for homeowners to create their own candleholders. Discarded aspen branches can make lovely candleholders with a little innovation and work.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Aspen branch
• Saw
• Power drill
• Auger drill bits
• Measuring tape
• Marker
• Sandpaper
• Glass votive candleholders
• Candles

1. Choose a clean, dry aspen branch that is at least 3 to 4 inches in diameter. You will need a fairly thick branch so that you can drill holes deep enough to secure your glass votive holders. A thinner branch will not give you enough depth for your holders.

2. Trim off the ragged ends of your aspen branch by cutting them even with a saw. Cut a small amount of wood from the bottom of your branch as well to give it a flat base on which to rest. Be sure that you trim it flat so that your holder does not rock or roll.

3. Measure your aspen branch and mark it off three even points on your branch. Mark these spots clearly as these will be the places you drill your holes for your candle votives.

4. Drill out the holes in your branch. Choose an auger bit that is large enough in diameter so that your glass holders fit securely into the holes without too much shifting. Drill carefully to avoid drilling all the way through your branch.

5. Sand the rough edges of your holes and the ends of your branch to avoid any scratches or snagging. Smoothing the edges of your branch will make for a much more polished and attractive candleholder.

6. Place your glass votive candleholders into each of your three drilled holes. Push them firmly into your holes and check that they do not shift or rock too much.

7. Insert candles of your choice into the glass holders. You can use nearly any type of candle you prefer as long as it is the right shape and size to fit within your glass votives.

8. Light the candles at your leisure. Your new aspen candleholder is now ready to provide hours of beauty and style to the interior of you home.

Tips & Warnings

• Check your chosen branch for any defects or insects before deciding to use it. You do not want to introduce any bugs into your home from your aspen branch.
• Do not try and use dull or defective power tools. Dull blades can slip and seriously injure you.