We rarely use store bought candles in our home as making candles is so simple and inexpensive. I have been noticing metallic candle holders in a lot of my favorite interior stores lately, so I wanted to share with you a DIY version you can make from dollar store votives.

You will need:

Glass VotivesMetallic Spray Paints (I used gold and copper)Pre-waxed Candle WicksSoy Wax Flakes (Microwavable is easier)Glue DotsGlass JugWooden SpoonWooden Skewers or PencilsEssential Oil (optional)

Begin by spray painting your votives gold. Spray painting is best done outside or in areas with plenty of ventilation. I used a cardboard box with one side removed to minimise any mess. Light strokes are best and be sure to leave your project to dry between coats.

Once the gold coats were dry, I sprayed light coats of copper paint in horizontal strokes across the top of the votives. This gives a subtle mixed metallic look. It’s amazing how metallic spray paints can make a dollar store find look expensive!

Next, use your glue dots to fix a pre-waxed candle wick to the inside of each votive.

Melt 1 3/4 cups of soy wax flakes in your glass jug. I did this in the microwave in 30 second increments, stirring in between. If you don’t have a microwave, you can place the jug into a saucepan of water – this usually works best on an induction stove.

An optional step is to add fragrance to your wax. I used a vanilla essential oil as I like scented candles, but it is up to you which fragrance you choose.

In order for the wicks to remain in place when the wax is poured and setting, I gently wrapped each one around a wooden skewer which I then rested across the top of the votive.

Once you have poured your wax into the votives, leave to dry completely.

Trim the wicks to around 0.5cm before burning to avoid large flames or flickering.

I love how they look as a trio!