How to Build a Votive Candle Holder From Wood

Burning candles should never be left unattended even when in holders.

Making a special holder for candles to burn around your home or to give as a gift can be done in a natural look when you build a votive candleholder from wood. Whether you just want to use a dried log with bark still on it or a cut board, you can create a holder large enough to burn four tealight-sized candles at a time. From start to finish, you should be done creating the spaces for candles and finishing your wood in less than a day.

Things You'll Need

• Wood block or log, 4-by-4 inches, 11 inches long
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Drill
• Spade bit 1½-inch diameter
• Sandpaper, if desired
• Wood stain, if desired
• Four "tealight" votive candles

Instructions

1. Set your wood down on a flat surface with the top surface you want to use facing up. Draw a straight line lengthwise down the center of your top surface.

2. Measure in from one end of the board 1¾ inches and mark a point on the drawn line. Measure down from this point 2½ inches and mark a second point. Measure 2½ inches away two more times and mark two more points. The fourth point should be 1¾ inches from the other end of the board.

3. Use a spade bit on your drill to drill a hole at each marked point a ½-inch deep. Sand over the entire wood block, if desired, to smooth away rough edges. Apply a wood stain according to the manufacturer's instruction and allow to dry for four hours or more.

4. Place a votive candle into each drilled hole without removing the protective plastic or tin cap. Set your candleholder in a safe location away from flammable items, pets and children.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to use full size votive candles, then make your holes as wide as the base of a glass votive holder and set the glass into the drilled holes. This should keep the wood from burning while still holding your larger candles uniformly.

• Always keep a protective cap or holder between the candle and your wooden base to avoid damaging the wood or catching it on fire.

References

• "Handmade for Profit"; Barbara Brabec; 1996
• "Home Made Best Made"; Christopher Cavanaugh; 1998