There’s something so magical about the soft, flickering glow of candles during Christmas. It instantly fills the room with warmth and nostalgia, reminding me of cozy evenings spent sipping cocoa and wrapping gifts by the fire. Over the years, I’ve realized that the right candleholder can turn even a simple tea light into a stunning festive accent — and making your own adds a personal, heartfelt touch.
I love creating candleholders that tell a story — maybe it’s a jar wrapped in twine and pine, or a shimmering glass dipped in gold paint. Each one becomes more than just décor; it’s a memory in the making. Whether you prefer rustic charm or elegant sparkle, DIY candleholders let you infuse your space with personality and love. So grab some candles, gather your craft supplies, and let’s bring that timeless Christmas glow into every corner of your home.
Christmas Candleholder DIYs
Mason Jar Candleholders
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There’s something beautifully simple about mason jar candleholders. I love how they bring that rustic farmhouse charm to any Christmas table. All you need are clear jars, some faux snow, and a few twigs of pine or holly. Drop a candle inside and tie a ribbon or twine around the rim for that cozy holiday feel. The soft light glows through the glass, reflecting off the snow, and it feels like winter magic captured in a jar. Honestly, this is one of those crafts that never disappoints — easy, affordable, and heartwarming every single time.
Stained Glass Candleholders
Stained glass candleholders always add that soft, colorful glow that feels so magical during Christmas. I take plain glass jars and paint them with glass paints in festive colors — reds, greens, and golds. Once the paint dries, I outline the sections with black or gold paint to mimic real stained glass. When the candle flickers inside, the colors come alive, casting gorgeous reflections across the room. Honestly, it’s one of my favorite projects because it turns a simple jar into something truly artistic. It’s peaceful to make and even more beautiful to light up on cozy December nights.
Lace-Dipped Candleholders
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There’s something incredibly elegant about lace-dipped candleholders. I brush glue onto the top half of a glass votive, then press lace fabric gently against it, finishing with a light dusting of white paint or glitter. When the candle burns, the lace pattern glows softly, creating such a romantic and festive feel. Honestly, every time I make these, I’m reminded that beauty doesn’t need to be complicated. They add the perfect vintage touch to Christmas dinners or quiet evenings spent by the fire. Plus, they’re so easy yet look absolutely stunning.
Peppermint Candle Display
Peppermint candles are pure Christmas joy in scent and sight. I arrange pillar candles on a tray and scatter peppermint candies or crushed candy canes around them. The red and white colors pop beautifully against the candlelight. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of faux snow or a few silver ornaments for an extra festive look. Honestly, this DIY is as cheerful as it gets — sweet, simple, and full of that nostalgic holiday vibe. It’s perfect for brightening your kitchen counter or dining table during December gatherings.
Starry Night Candleholders
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Creating starry night candleholders always feels magical to me. I paint small glass jars with deep blue and black tones, then dot them with tiny golden stars using metallic paint. When the candle flickers inside, it looks like a twinkling night sky captured in glass. Honestly, I find this one so calming — it reminds me of peaceful winter nights under the stars. It’s a beautiful way to add a dreamy, celestial touch to your Christmas décor, especially if you love a slightly whimsical or modern vibe.
Beaded Wire Candle Wraps
Beaded wire candle wraps bring sparkle and elegance in such a delicate way. I take thin jewelry wire, thread on silver or gold beads, and gently wrap it around the base of a candleholder. You can shape the wire into swirls or loops for extra charm. When the candle burns, the beads catch the light, adding soft glimmers to the room. Honestly, it’s one of those small details that makes a big difference. It feels graceful, festive, and perfectly suited for those who love understated holiday shine.
Gold Leaf Candleholders
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Gold leaf candleholders add that touch of glam every Christmas table deserves. I take plain glass holders, apply adhesive in random patches, and gently press gold leaf onto the surface. The result is this stunning, textured shine that glows beautifully when the candle flickers inside. It’s both classy and festive without being over the top. Honestly, I adore how each piece turns out slightly different — no two are ever the same. They look amazing grouped together on a tray or along the mantel for that golden holiday sparkle.
Snowflake Cutout Candle Sleeves
I love the cozy charm of snowflake cutout sleeves. Using thick white paper or vellum, I cut out snowflake patterns and wrap them around plain candleholders. When the candle burns, the light shines through the cutouts, creating glowing snowflake shadows on the wall. It’s such a simple yet magical effect that instantly feels like winter wonderland vibes. Honestly, I can sit for hours just watching those patterns dance. It’s a fun project for families, too — easy enough for kids to help and full of that holiday spirit.
Cranberry and Water Candleholders
This DIY always feels fresh and festive. I fill clear glass vases with water, add a handful of cranberries, and float a tea light on top. The red berries against the candlelight create that perfect Christmas color contrast — simple, natural, and elegant. I often add a sprig of rosemary or pine for an extra touch of greenery. Honestly, it’s one of the easiest ways to make your table glow with seasonal charm. Plus, it smells subtly fragrant and looks beautiful without needing much effort at all.
Wrapped Sweater Candleholders
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Repurposing old sweaters into candleholders brings so much cozy charm to winter décor. I cut the sleeves off an old knitted sweater and slip them over glass jars or votives. The soft texture instantly makes the space feel warm and inviting. Add a few buttons or twine bows for extra cuteness. When the candle burns inside, it glows softly through the fabric, giving off that hygge vibe I love so much. Honestly, this DIY feels like wrapping your home in comfort — perfect for those chilly Christmas nights.
Rustic Wooden Candle Blocks
I adore the simplicity of rustic wooden candle blocks. Using small wooden cubes or reclaimed wood, I drill holes on top to hold tea lights. Then I sand the edges and stain or paint them for a weathered finish. You can stack a few together or line them down the table for a farmhouse look. Honestly, they’re a beautiful mix of rugged and refined, making your Christmas setup feel natural yet stylish. It’s the kind of craft that feels timeless and blends perfectly with almost any holiday décor.
Mirror Base Candle Display
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Adding a mirror base under your candles changes everything. I use an old mirror tray or a round mirror tile, place several candleholders of varying heights, and watch the light reflect beautifully. The glow multiplies, making the room feel instantly warmer and more festive. Sprinkle some faux snow or add small ornaments for extra flair. Honestly, this simple idea makes even plain candles look elegant. It’s perfect for holiday dinners where you want that soft, romantic glow without too much effort.
Jute-Wrapped Candleholders
There’s something earthy and grounding about jute-wrapped candleholders. I wrap glass jars or votives with jute rope, securing it with hot glue as I go. Then I tie a little bow, add a charm, or glue on a tiny pinecone. The mix of rough texture and candlelight creates a cozy, rustic ambiance. Honestly, I love how they bring balance — warm, natural, and handmade. They fit right in with farmhouse or minimalist Christmas themes, making the whole space feel intentionally simple yet festive.
Candy Cane Candle Jars
Candy canes aren’t just for eating — they make adorable candle décor too. I glue candy canes vertically around a glass candleholder, tie a red ribbon around them, and pop a candle in the center. The red and white stripes instantly scream Christmas cheer. When lit, it looks sweet and playful, perfect for family gatherings or kids’ tables. Honestly, this craft always makes me smile — it’s festive, easy, and fun to make while sipping hot cocoa and watching holiday movies.
Snow Globe Candleholders
I’ve always loved snow globes, so turning that idea into a candleholder feels magical. I glue a small ornament or figurine to the bottom of a clear glass bowl, sprinkle in faux snow, and carefully place a candle above it. The candlelight shines down on the snowy scene, creating that whimsical glow. Honestly, it’s one of those DIYs that makes you feel like a kid again — filled with wonder and a little bit of nostalgia. It’s perfect for side tables, mantels, or even as thoughtful handmade gifts.
Burlap and Holly Candle Wraps
Burlap and holly together create such a charming mix of rustic and festive. I wrap burlap around glass candleholders, then tuck in a sprig of artificial holly and secure it with twine. The soft, earthy tone of burlap makes the red berries and green leaves pop beautifully. It’s understated but full of Christmas warmth. Honestly, I love how natural and effortless it looks — no glitter or fuss, just cozy holiday charm that feels inviting and homemade. It’s one of those pieces that always earns compliments.
Cinnamon Stick Candle Wraps
This DIY always makes my home smell like Christmas. I take a plain pillar candle and wrap cinnamon sticks around it, securing them with twine or a festive ribbon. The moment you light it, that warm, spicy scent fills the air — it’s just so comforting. You can even tuck in a sprig of evergreen or a small pinecone for extra charm. Honestly, this one feels timeless because it combines two things I adore: natural textures and that nostalgic holiday aroma that instantly puts everyone in a festive mood.
Glitter-Dipped Candleholders
If you love a bit of sparkle during the holidays, glitter-dipped candleholders are perfect. I usually take plain glass votives and brush the bottom half with glue, then sprinkle gold or silver glitter until it shines like frost. Once dry, they catch the light so beautifully, especially at night. It’s amazing how such a simple touch can transform your décor into something elegant and festive. Honestly, every time I see them twinkle on my mantel, it reminds me that a little shimmer always brings extra joy to Christmas evenings.
Pinecone Candle Stands
Pinecones are nature’s little works of art, and they make beautiful candle stands. I collect a few, spray them lightly with metallic paint — gold, silver, or even bronze — and glue a tea light holder on top. The result is rustic yet classy, perfect for a woodland-inspired Christmas setting. They look stunning on dinner tables or window sills, especially when surrounded by bits of greenery or fairy lights. Honestly, it’s one of those projects that costs almost nothing but adds such a warm, handcrafted touch to your space.
Frosted Wine Glass Candleholders
I love transforming old wine glasses into elegant frosted candleholders. A quick spray of frosted glass paint gives them that icy, winter look. I flip the glasses upside down, place small ornaments inside the bowl, and rest a candle on the base. It looks like a snow globe turned chic décor piece. You can even line them up on your table for a dreamy centerpiece. Honestly, this DIY always gets compliments — it’s creative, easy, and has that perfect balance of elegance and holiday cheer.
Twine and Lace Candle Jars
There’s something so delicate and charming about twine and lace candle jars. I wrap lace around a glass jar, layer it with twine, and tie it with a small bow or bell. When the candle burns inside, the lace pattern glows softly, casting the prettiest shadows. It’s simple yet romantic — ideal for quiet winter evenings or Christmas dinner setups. Honestly, every time I make these, I’m reminded that beauty often lies in the simplest, handmade things. They bring a touch of vintage warmth that feels truly personal.
Snowy Candle Lanterns
Creating snowy candle lanterns always makes me feel like I’m crafting a piece of winter itself. I coat the outside of glass jars with Mod Podge and sprinkle on Epsom salt to mimic glistening snow. Then I add a tea light inside, and suddenly it looks like a lantern glowing in a frosty forest. It’s the kind of craft that’s both easy and breathtakingly beautiful. Honestly, the way the light shimmers through the “snow” never fails to make me pause and just soak in that peaceful Christmas feeling.
Evergreen Base Candleholders
This idea brings the outdoors right into your home. I start with a simple glass candleholder and create a mini wreath around its base using pine branches, berries, and eucalyptus. The greenery stays fresh for days and smells amazing. You can even add tiny ornaments or faux snow for a festive touch. It instantly makes your table or mantel feel more alive and cozy. Honestly, I love how natural and timeless this looks — like something out of an old Christmas postcard, full of comfort and charm.
Vintage Teacup Candleholders
Old teacups make the sweetest little candleholders. I melt down leftover candle wax, pour it into a teacup, and add a new wick in the center. Once it sets, it becomes a beautiful, nostalgic piece of décor. Mix and match different cups for a charming display — they look especially lovely on a tray or side table. Honestly, this DIY always warms my heart because it’s about giving new life to something old and loved. Plus, it makes a perfect handmade gift for anyone who adores vintage Christmas vibes.
Birch Log Candle Centerpiece
Birch logs always remind me of cozy mountain cabins, so turning them into a candle centerpiece feels extra special. I drill small holes along a short birch log to fit tea lights snugly, then decorate around it with pine sprigs, berries, or cinnamon sticks. When the candles glow against the pale wood, it looks rustic yet sophisticated. Honestly, it’s one of those centerpieces that feels both natural and festive, creating the perfect atmosphere for Christmas dinners and family gatherings. It’s simple, beautiful, and full of woodland warmth.
FAQ
How can I make my candleholders smell more like Christmas?
You can use scented candles like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla, or decorate the holder with dried orange slices and cloves. Another trick I love is tying a tiny bundle of rosemary or eucalyptus around the holder — it smells heavenly when warmed.
Are these candleholders safe to use indoors?
Yes, as long as you keep safety in mind. Always use heat-resistant glass or metal bases, avoid flammable decorations near the flame, and never leave candles unattended. Honestly, a little care goes a long way in keeping your décor both pretty and safe.
How long do these DIY candleholders last?
Most last for years if stored properly. Just remove any perishable decorations like real greenery after the season. Wipe the holders clean, wrap them gently, and store them in a dry spot. That way, you can enjoy your handmade glow every Christmas.
Can I gift these candleholders to friends or family?
Absolutely! Handmade candleholders make such thoughtful gifts. Personalize them with the recipient’s favorite colors, scents, or even small charms. Honestly, it’s a heartfelt present that shows you put love and effort into every detail.
I’m father joaquin perez, we are a catholic church with all the sacraments where everybody is welcome. we celebrate catholic mass every Sunday at 12:30pm at saint stephen episcopal church at 2750 McFarlane road, Miami, Florida