Ideas for Candle Centerpieces
Use candles to make the perfect centerpiece for your next gathering. The soft glow of candle light adds to the atmosphere of the occasion. Whether casual or formal, for one table or twenty, candles are inexpensive and elegant. There are a myriad of ways to display them. Keep in mind the one basic rule for any centerpiece--they must not interfere with the conversation. Place them either above or below eye level.
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Bowls
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Use small ivy and fish bowls in a variety of ways with candles. Fill with two to three inches of decorative rocks and place a tea light inside for a warm glow that is reflected in the glass. Place a pillar that is four or more inches taller than the bowl inside for larger, more intense arrangement. Tie ribbon or glue greenery to the rim of the bowls.
Use larger bowls with extra wide openings for a floating arrangement. Place natural river stone or translucent floral rocks in the bottom of the bowl. Float three to five floating tea lights on the surface of the water. Alternately, float as many candles as will fit on the surface of the water for a bold and memorable statement.
Repurposed Centerpieces
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Make tin can centerpieces for a casual or garden party event. Remove any labels and glue from the cans. Fill tin cans--the type vegetables come in--with water. Freeze completely. Poke holes in the side of the can with a nail and hammer. The ice keeps the can from collapsing. Allow the ice to melt and dry the can completely. Place small candles inside so the light glows through the punched holes. Paint the cans or leave them plain. Make a large centerpiece with coffee cans or group smaller cans around one large coffee can.
Collect old mason jars. Fill the bottom with floral rocks and place your candle inside. Decorate the outside of the jar with ribbon or by placing greenery around it.
Use terracotta flower pots for candle centerpieces. Group one or two small pots with one medium pot. Place candles inside that are large enough for the flame to at least clear the rim. Wrap ribbon around the rim, paint designs on the pots or glue flower embellishments to the sides.
Store-Bought Holders
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Dress up store-bought candle holders. Cut fabric into squares with pinking shears. Place pillar candles or tapers in holders in the center of the fabric. Sprinkle glass rocks or flower petals around the candles on top of the fabric. Or use doilies or lace handkerchiefs instead of fabric.
Place a wine glass on top of a piece of gathered tulle. Place a tea light inside the wine class. Arrange flowers around the base or tie a ribbon around the glass stem.
Glue artificial flowers to a floral ring, available at craft shops. Use holly, pine cones or poinsettias for a holiday theme. Other flowers can be used year round. Place around the base of a large pillar candle.
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