Christmas candle holder crafts have always been one of my favorite ways to bring warmth and coziness into the holiday season. There’s just something so magical about the soft flicker of candlelight mixed with the glow of Christmas décor. I usually spend an afternoon gathering jars, pinecones, ribbons, and little ornaments to create my own designs. Sometimes I go rustic with twine and greenery, and other times I love adding a bit of sparkle with gold or silver paint.
What I adore most is how personal each candle holder feels—no two are ever the same. Whether placed on the dinner table, windowsill, or fireplace mantel, they add that extra touch of charm that instantly makes any space feel festive. Crafting them has also become a peaceful moment for me, a little break from the holiday rush. Every time I light one, it reminds me of love, warmth, and the true spirit of Christmas.
Christmas Candle Holder Crafts
Mason Jar Candle Holders
I love using mason jars for Christmas candle holders because they’re simple, affordable, and so easy to decorate. I usually fill them with faux snow, small pinecones, or cranberries before placing a tea light inside. Wrapping twine or red ribbon around the top adds that cozy, farmhouse touch I adore. Sometimes I tie on a little tag that says “Joy” or “Peace.” When the candles are lit, the glow through the glass feels magical. I often line them up on my windowsill or dining table, and they never fail to make the whole room feel calm and festive.
Starry Night Candle Holders
I’ve always loved the beauty of a starry sky, so I decided to bring that feeling into my Christmas décor. For these, I use small glass jars and stick on star-shaped stickers before spraying them with dark blue or navy paint. Once it dries, I peel off the stars, and when I light the candle, the glow shines through like twinkling stars. It looks absolutely magical at night, especially when placed on a windowsill. I like making a few in different sizes to create that dreamy, peaceful look. They remind me of calm winter nights filled with hope and wonder.
Gingerbread Candle Holders
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There’s something so cozy about gingerbread at Christmas, so I thought—why not turn that charm into a candle holder? I wrap plain glass jars with brown paper and draw white icing-like patterns using paint pens. Sometimes I glue on small buttons or peppermint stickers for extra detail. They look adorable on the kitchen counter or dining table, especially when paired with the smell of fresh cookies. Every time I light one, it fills the space with that nostalgic, homey warmth that makes the season feel so sweet.
Winter Woodland Candle Holders
I’ve always been drawn to woodland-themed décor, and making these candle holders feels like bringing a little forest indoors. I wrap glass votives with pieces of bark or wood veneer and tuck in sprigs of pine or tiny twigs around the base. Sometimes I even add a touch of faux moss for texture. When the candle glows, it looks like light flickering through a forest. I love placing these near my fireplace or on my coffee table—they bring a peaceful, natural beauty that reminds me of walking through snowy woods.
Ornament-Filled Candle Vases
For a cheerful and colorful look, I like filling clear glass vases with mini ornaments and then setting a candle on top. Mixing red, gold, and silver ornaments creates such a joyful, festive vibe. I sometimes add a bit of greenery or tinsel for extra sparkle. These candle vases make perfect centerpieces for parties or Christmas dinners because they’re bright and fun. They catch the light beautifully, and I love how they instantly make any space feel more celebratory without much effort at all.
Ribbon and Bell Candle Holders
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Nothing feels more like Christmas to me than the sound of little jingle bells. I take plain glass jars or pillar candles and wrap them with festive ribbons—plaid, red velvet, or gold—and tie on a few tiny bells. When you move them, they make the softest cheerful sound, which I find so charming. The combination of light, sound, and color feels so joyful. I usually place them by my entryway so guests are greeted with both warmth and a gentle holiday jingle. It’s such a simple craft but adds so much Christmas spirit.
Snowflake Jar Candle Holders
I adore making snowflake jar candle holders because they capture that frosty winter magic so perfectly. I usually start with clear glass jars and stick on snowflake stencils before spraying them with white or silver paint. Once the paint dries, I peel the stickers away and pop in a tea light. The flickering light shines through the snowflake shapes and creates the prettiest patterns on the walls. I often group a few of them together for a soft, glowing winter display on my windowsill or mantel. They always make the space feel like a cozy snow globe scene.
Holly Berry Candle Holders
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Holly berries instantly remind me of Christmas mornings, so I love using them in candle crafts. I usually fill glass holders halfway with faux berries and add a small candle on top. Sometimes, I tuck in a few green leaves for contrast. The red and green together feel so festive and classic. I place them in the center of my dining table or on my kitchen counter, and they bring such cheerful color to the space. Every time the candles flicker, it feels like the berries glow a little too—it’s simple but so heartwarming.
Twine-Wrapped Candle Holders
There’s something so homey about twine-wrapped candle holders. I take a plain glass votive and wrap twine tightly around it, finishing with a tiny bow or charm. For Christmas, I sometimes add a small sprig of evergreen or a cinnamon stick under the twine. It gives a rustic, handmade look that feels very farmhouse-inspired. These candle holders fit beautifully with both modern and country-style décor. I love scattering them across my coffee table or entryway shelf—they bring that cozy “homemade with love” feeling every time I light them.
Peppermint Stripe Candle Jars
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I can never resist a peppermint theme during Christmas—it just screams festive fun! I like wrapping red and white striped paper or candy-cane ribbons around simple glass jars. If I’m feeling playful, I even glue small peppermint candies along the base. When lit, the candles reflect the red and white stripes beautifully. They look so sweet (literally) on a dessert table or kitchen counter. These always get the most compliments from guests because they’re cheerful, colorful, and smell faintly minty if you add a drop of peppermint oil nearby.
Lace and Burlap Candle Holders
Lace and burlap make the prettiest mix of elegance and rustic charm. I wrap burlap around a glass jar and then overlay a strip of lace. Sometimes I tie it all together with jute or satin ribbon. The result is this soft, romantic glow that feels perfect for a cozy Christmas evening. These holders work beautifully as table centerpieces or on a bedroom nightstand for a subtle festive touch. I love how they combine rough and delicate textures—it’s such a peaceful, calming style for the holidays.
Stained Glass Candle Holders
Making stained glass candle holders is one of the most creative Christmas crafts I’ve tried. I use glass paint to create colorful patterns—sometimes simple shapes like stars or holly, other times more abstract designs. When you light the candle, the colors come alive, casting rainbow-like reflections. It feels almost magical! These holders look gorgeous on window ledges where sunlight hits them during the day and candlelight glows through at night. Every one turns out different, and that uniqueness is part of what makes them so special to me.
Snow-Dusted Candle Lanterns
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There’s something so peaceful about snow-dusted lanterns glowing on a cold winter night. I take plain lanterns and lightly brush the edges with white paint or sprinkle on faux snow. Inside, I add candles surrounded by pinecones, tiny ornaments, or even a bit of glitter. The glow feels soft and serene, like a winter evening captured in glass. I often line them along my porch steps—it creates such a welcoming sight for guests. They’re simple to make but truly magical when lit under the stars.
Metallic Leaf Candle Holders
I love mixing nature with a bit of glam, so metallic leaf candle holders are a favorite of mine. I collect a few dried leaves and coat them in gold or silver paint, then glue them around glass votives. The shimmer catches the candlelight beautifully, giving a warm, elegant glow. These are perfect for more sophisticated Christmas settings, especially when paired with gold cutlery or ornaments. Every time I see the light flicker through the metallic leaves, it reminds me of how nature and celebration can blend so perfectly.
Cranberry and Water Candle Votives
Cranberry water candle votives are one of the simplest yet most stunning Christmas crafts. I fill clear glass containers with water, add a handful of fresh cranberries, and place a floating candle on top. The red berries against the clear water look so festive and clean. Sometimes, I toss in a few rosemary sprigs for a subtle scent. These look gorgeous on dining tables or kitchen counters—they feel fresh, elegant, and very “holiday-ready.” The soft reflection from the water and candlelight creates the perfect warm glow.
Christmas Village Candle Holders
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Creating candle holders inspired by little Christmas villages brings such a nostalgic touch. I cut small paper or cardboard houses and tape them around glass jars, leaving space for light to shine through the windows. Once the candle’s lit, it looks like tiny homes glowing on a snowy street. I sometimes set up a few in a row for a full “village scene.” It reminds me of those cozy childhood Christmas displays I used to stare at for hours. Every time I light them, they bring back that same childlike wonder.
Pinecone Candle Centerpieces
Pinecones have this natural beauty that instantly reminds me of Christmas. I like arranging them around pillar candles on a wooden tray or a glass plate. A sprinkle of faux snow or glitter makes them sparkle just enough. Sometimes I add tiny ornaments or berries between the cones for color. It’s simple, but it gives that rustic mountain-lodge charm I love so much. Whenever guests come over, they always notice the centerpiece and comment on how cozy it feels. It’s one of those crafts that looks fancy but is actually super easy to make.
Cinnamon Stick Candle Wraps
Nothing says Christmas like the smell of cinnamon, and wrapping candles with cinnamon sticks is both pretty and aromatic. I usually use thick candles, wrap the sticks around them, and tie everything with a red ribbon or twine. It gives such a warm, natural look, and when the candle burns, the scent fills the room beautifully. I love placing them near my entryway so that the first thing people smell is that sweet holiday spice. It’s a small detail, but it creates such a welcoming and comforting atmosphere.
Frosted Glass Candle Holders
There’s something magical about frosted glass during Christmas. I like taking clear jars or vases and using frosted spray paint to create that snowy look. Then I add glitter or small snowflake stickers to give it a delicate sparkle. Once the candle is lit, the light glows softly through the frosted finish—it’s stunning. I often group them on my mantel with pine branches and ornaments for a wintery display. They give off that quiet, peaceful vibe I associate with snowy Christmas nights.
Birch Bark Candle Holders
Birch bark candle holders bring such a natural, woodland feel to Christmas décor. I usually wrap pieces of birch bark around glass votives and secure them with twine. Sometimes I tuck in a small sprig of evergreen or a tiny pinecone for an extra festive touch. The texture of the bark and the soft candlelight look so beautiful together. I love placing these on the dining table or coffee table—they add that cozy forest charm that makes everything feel warm and inviting.
Glittery Gold Candle Jars
When I want a touch of glamour, I always go for glittery gold candle jars. I coat the inside or outside of a glass jar with glue, sprinkle gold glitter, and let it dry. The glow that shines through the glitter feels so luxurious, especially when the lights are dim. I often pair them with metallic ornaments or gold accents for a cohesive look. They’re perfect for adding sparkle to Christmas dinner tables or festive parties, and they never fail to make everything look elegant.
Snowy Lantern Candle Displays
Lanterns filled with candles are timeless at Christmas. I like filling mine with faux snow, pine sprigs, and berries before placing the candle inside. The mix of textures creates such a beautiful scene. Sometimes I even hang them outside on the porch so they glow at night—it looks straight out of a Christmas movie. Indoors or out, these snowy lanterns bring warmth and magic wherever they’re placed. I think they’re one of the easiest ways to make your space feel instantly festive.
Rustic Wood Slice Candle Holders
Wood slice candle holders give that earthy, handmade vibe I can’t get enough of. I either buy pre-cut wood slices or make my own from fallen branches. Then, I drill small spaces for tealights or votives to sit in. The natural grain of the wood against the soft candlelight looks stunning. I sometimes decorate the edges with greenery or tiny bells for extra flair. They look beautiful on a coffee table, sideboard, or even as part of a centerpiece.
Ribbon-Wrapped Candle Jars
Ribbons can completely transform a plain candle holder. I like using plaid, red velvet, or gold ribbons to wrap around simple glass jars. Adding a bow or a charm—like a star or bell—makes it even cuter. It’s such a quick project but makes a big impact. I usually match the ribbon colors to my tree decorations so everything feels cohesive. Whether you light them or not, these ribbon-wrapped jars look festive and add instant Christmas cheer to any room.
Evergreen Candle Rings
Evergreen candle rings are classic for a reason—they bring the scent and look of Christmas indoors. I make small wreaths using pine branches, berries, and little ornaments, then place candles in the center. When the candles glow, the greenery shines beautifully. I love using them for dinner table settings or on my mantel. They add texture, fragrance, and that traditional holiday warmth that makes everything feel so comforting. Every time I make them, my home instantly feels like Christmas.
FAQ
What materials do I need to make Christmas candle holders?
You really only need basic supplies: glass jars or votives, candles or tealights, glue or adhesive, ribbon or twine, and decorative bits like pinecones, faux snow, glitter, or greenery. I also keep craft paint, paint pens, and a sealant on hand for a few projects.
Are these candle holders safe to burn?
Yes, as long as you follow safety basics: use heat-safe containers, never leave candles unattended, keep flammable decorations away from the flame, and trim wicks. For jars filled with fillers, don’t let loose items touch the flame—use a votive cup or floating candles when necessary.
Can I place these candle holders outdoors?
Many designs work outdoors, but protect them from wind and rain. Lanterns or covered votives are ideal outside, and battery-powered LED candles are a safe, weatherproof option for porches.
How long does it take to make one?
Simple wraps or ribbon holders take 10–20 minutes; painted or layered designs can take an hour or more, especially if paint or glue needs to dry. I usually craft in batches—quick projects one afternoon, more detailed ones over a weekend.
Do I need artistic skills to make them?
Not at all. Plenty of ideas are totally beginner-friendly—twine wraps, ribbon, or filling jars with cranberries look great with minimal skill. Imperfections add charm, and practice makes it more fun.
What candles work best for these crafts?
Tea lights, votives, and pillar candles are versatile. Floating candles work beautifully in water-filled jars. If you want longer burn time, choose beeswax or soy candles—they smell nice and burn cleaner.
How do I clean and store my candle holders after the season?
Wipe glass with warm, soapy water to remove wax and residue; soak stubborn wax in hot water then scrape gently. Store in a dry box with tissue between pieces to avoid scratches and keep any delicate decorations in a separate container.
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