How to Make a Wooden Candle Holder

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Last winter we had a large Bradford pear come down in a huge ice storm. While I was sad to lose a tree, I thought it would be a good time to try a project I’ve had on my mind. I’ve seen various wooden candle holders on display in store and house and I’ve always liked how they’ve looked. But I wasn’t thrilled with the price tag that came along with them. So when our tree came down I figure it was time to make a wooden candle holder. Here’s how to do it!

Find a straight limb about 3 to 4 inches in diameter.  I also had my husband cut a couple three inch blocks from the trunk, more about that later.

Cut the limb down to whatever length you desire. We did ours about 32 inches.

Then we used a Ryobi table saw to cut one side off to make it flat. (I didn’t get a picture of the actual process because I was helping cut the limb and that would be dangerous. Ha!)

Now I was ready to drill my holes. We ordered a 2 inch Forstner drill bit off of ebay. We couldn’t find this exact bit in any of the big box stores. You want a bit that will drill a large hole so that’s why it’s a little harder to fine.

Then it was time to drill and drill and drill. This was kind of slow going and took some time because it really just shaves off the wood a little at a time. We made each hole about four inches away from each center.

I don’t have an exact measurement on how far to drill because we just eye balled it. Basically when we thought it would hold a tea cup candle.

After we did all of the holes I covered it with a coat of polyurethane and that’s it! Pretty simple and cheap!

Now about those tree stumps. I also coated them with polyurethane and used them as decorations on my mantle. I love how they look especially with fall colors!

This was a quick and simple fall project and I am so happy with how it turned out! Do you think you might be able to give this project a try?! Let me know if you do!!! Happy fall y’all!!!

Originally published October 24, 2016