How to Decorate a Candle Holder With Leaves

Leaves are easy to work with, when decorating candle holders

Candles are a popular item for decoration, especially as table centerpieces. If you want to make a decoration or centerpiece with a fall or earth theme, an easy way to do so is to use leaves. These leaves can be procured for free from your own yard, or ask a neighbor for some if you have no trees. Gather the most colorful ones and combine them with things you already have to create a unique candle holder decorated with leaves.

Things You'll Need

• Leaves
• Votive candle holder
• Decoupage glue
• White tissue paper
• Tealight candle
• Paintbrush
• Newspaper
• Large heavy book

Instructions

1. Gather the leaves you wish to use for the project. Wrap a single layer of them in old newspaper, then place the newspaper between the pages of a heavy book. This will flatten and dry the leaves. Check on them after an hour or two, they should be ready to use.

2. Spread a thin layer of craft glue over the outside of the votive holder. Arrange the leaves around the votive holder in any way you wish, pressing on them to adhere them to the holder.

3. In a disposable bowl or cup, combine equal parts craft glue and water. This thinned glue will be easier to spread, making the rest of this project go faster.

4. Cut or tear the white tissue paper into one inch squares. Arrange them on the candle holder over the leaves, then use the paintbrush to spread a layer of the thinned glue over each piece of tissue paper. Make sure the pieces overlap, or else there will be gaps where you will see the candle holder. Do this for any paper that peeks over the edge of the glass as well. Allow it to dry overnight.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can't find leaves from trees that are small enough to fit on a votive candle holder, try bushes or shrubs. These leaves tend to be much smaller and may fit the votive holder perfectly. Leaves from a small houseplant may also work well.

• If you want leaf decor but don't have time to dry your own leaves, fake fabric leaves bought from a craft or hobby store will do. You can also glue the leaves directly onto the candle holder, eliminating the white tissue paper steps. Just make sure you glue them to the outside, so that they don't catch fire.

References

• Kaboose: Nature Luminary Candle Holders