Making DIY candle holders at home
On 2025-02-12 11:02:50
Treating Clay, Concrete, Jesmonite and Other Materials
Candlesticks are not only functional, but can also be decorative elements in your home. If you want to create unique pieces, the following materials are a great option. Let's see how to work with them and what treatment techniques will help you create durable and waterproof candlesticks!
1. Clay Candle Holders
Clay is an easy-to-shape and natural material that can be used to make rustic or elegant candle holders.
How to make it?
Use air-drying or firing clay. Shape the candle holder by hand or using a template. Leave enough space for the candle.
If using air-drying clay, wait at least 24-48 hours for it to dry completely. For firing clay, follow the firing temperature on the packaging.
How to make it waterproof?
- Use a water-based varnish or a clear resin coating.
- For fired clay, apply a waterproof glaze before firing.
- You can use a clear spray varnish to prevent wax from seeping through.
2. Concrete Candle Holders
Concrete candle holders are very popular for their industrial and minimalist look.
How to make them?
Mix quick-drying cement or concrete mix with water. Pour into a silicone or plastic mold. Insert a small glass or cylinder into the mold to create a depression for the candle holder. Let it dry for at least 24-48 hours. Sand down any sharp edges.
How to make it waterproof?
- Use a concrete impregnating agent or waterproof varnish.
- For extra protection, apply a coat of epoxy resin.
- Alternatively, you can use a kitchen waterproof sealant.
3. Gypsum candle holders
Gypsum is an easy-to-shape and fast-setting material, perfect for DIY projects.
How to make it?
- Mix gypsum powder with water and pour into a silicone mold. Use a lubricant (e.g. Vaseline) inside the mold to make it easy to remove the finished piece. Leave a small roller to form the wax area. Wait 1-2 hours for it to fully cure.
How to make it waterproof?
- Use a clear waterproof varnish.
- You can also treat the surface with wax.
- You can achieve extra durability with epoxy resin.
4. Wooden candle holders
Natural wooden candle holders create a warm and rustic effect.
How to make them?
- Use wood slices or hollowed out tree trunks.
- Drill a hole for the candle.
- Sand the surface and burn it if you want to achieve an antique effect.
How to make it waterproof?
- Treat with beeswax or linseed oil-based wood preservative.
- Use water-based or solvent-based varnish.
- Epoxy resin gives you a durable and shiny finish.
5. Jesmonite Candle Holders
Jesmonite is a modern, easy-to-use material that looks similar to concrete, but is less porous and lighter.
How to make it?
Mix Jesmonite base and hardener in the prescribed ratio. Pour into a silicone mold. Shake or tap the mold to remove air bubbles. Let dry for at least 30-60 minutes. Sand smooth and paint or varnish as desired.
How to make it waterproof?
- Use a special Jesmonite coating or water-repellent spray.
- You can also seal it with a matte or glossy varnish.
- You can make it even more resistant with a resin coating.
Summary
Making DIY candle holders is an exciting and creative process that you can use a variety of materials for. Clay, concrete, Jesmonite, plaster and wood are all great choices if you want to create unique decorations. However, it is important to treat the materials properly to ensure they are durable and waterproof. Choose the technique that works best for you and create your own unique candle holders.
