Making Terra Cotta Candle Holders

Making Terra Cotta Candle Holders

Terra cotta clay flower pots aren't just for plants anymore...they are the key element in creating the lastest trend in candle holders! Learn how!

If you have any type of garden, flowers, or plants at home, chances are you know what a terra cotta pot is. These orange-colored clay planters are inexpensive and can be used for a wide variety of craft projects. One of the latest trends is to create candle holders. They make great gifts or can be themed to coordinate with your own home.

To create one of these little masterpieces, you will need a terra cotta pot and tray (preferably the 3 to 4 inch size), paints, a paintbrush, craft glue, rhinestones, stickers, flat edged marbles or any other type of decorations.

To begin, choose a base color for your pot and cover both it and the tray with 1-3 coats, depending on darkness and thickness. You may choose to make an all natural looking holder by keeping the terra cotta's natural color. Once the paint has dried, place the pot itself upside down and glue the tray right-side up onto the base. It should form a "bird bath" looking pedestal.

Now, choose your decorations. This is the part where you determine the "look" you want to achieve.

You can paint additional objects on the pot, such as flowers or holiday pictures. You can glue rhinestones or marbles around the edges. You can add beads or fimo clay decorations. You can decorate it with stickers or glitter. You may want to tie a ribbon or raffia around the base of the holder or along the seam made where the tray meets the pot. Make sure you use a strong craft glue and hold the objects in place until the glue is moderately dry, otherwise they will slide down the slanted surface of the pot.

Once you are satisfied with your decorations, place a tea light or small votive candle on top of the holder. Light it and enjoy your new decoration at home or wrap in colorful tissue paper to give to a friend!