15 Gorgeous DIY Christmas Candles & Tea Light Ideas
There’s something about Christmas candles that just brings an extra bit of warmth and coziness to the season, don’t you think? I love how a simple candle or tealight can transform a room, especially when you add a little DIY magic to it. Whether you’re making your own candles or decorating store-bought ones, it’s such a fun way to get into the holiday spirit without spending a fortune.
For me, tealights are a favorite—they’re so easy to work with, and their small, uniform shape makes them perfect for almost any DIY project. Plus, the glow they give off is just enough to make everything feel more festive. And if you’re like me, always on the lookout for budget-friendly ways to decorate, you’ll love how easy it is to upcycle plain candles into something special.
Before diving into your Christmas candle projects, stock up on a few candles or tealights—trust me, you’ll want extras for all the ideas you’ll come up with! Whether they become the centerpiece of your craft or just a sweet little accent, you’ll have so much fun bringing a personal, homemade touch to your holiday decor.
1. Magical Hanging Lanterns
Source: christmassfeeling
Okay, these hanging lanterns are just magical! ✨ I can already picture them twinkling on my porch, welcoming guests with their warm and inviting glow. And they're so easy to make! I just picked up some glass jars with handles at a local thrift store (such a steal!), popped in some tealights, and added a few sprigs of holly for a festive touch. Hang them from the ceiling, on your porch, or even in your Christmas tree for an extra touch of enchantment. ✨
2. Cozy Candles in Cups
Source: christmassfeeling
I'm absolutely smitten with these cozy candles in cups! 😍 They're perfect for adding a touch of rustic charm to your holiday table. Just imagine these glowing beauties nestled amongst your Christmas dinner spread. So inviting, right? And they're ridiculously easy to make! I found some adorable mugs with a vintage vibe at a flea market, filled them with faux greenery and berries, and nestled in a candle. Arrange them on a wooden tray with some pinecones, and voilà! You've got yourself a centerpiece that's both elegant and festive.
3. Mesmerizing Floating Candles
Source: almondtree.lane
These floating candle jars are seriously mesmerizing! ✨ I love how the candlelight dances on the water and creates such a dreamy ambiance. And the best part is, they're SO easy to make! Seriously, anyone can do this. Just grab some jars (any kind will do!), add some cranberries, greenery, water, and a floating candle. That's it! You've got yourself a stunning centerpiece that will add a touch of magic to your Christmas decor.
4. Whimsical Cardboard Christmas Tree
Source: johartas
This DIY is so clever and creative! I love how the tealight candles illuminate the intricate cutouts and cast those magical dancing shadows on the walls. ✨ It's surprisingly easy to make too! Just cut out some cardboard shapes, decorate them with festive designs (think snowflakes, stars, or even little reindeer!), and assemble them into a tree. Then, nestle those tealights in between the layers, and watch the magic unfold. ✨
5. Timeless Gold Candles
Source: nelasoldmann
These antique gold candles are SO elegant! ✨ I'm obsessed with the vintage vibe they bring to any Christmas display. And guess what? They're not just for Christmas! That gorgeous gold hue looks stunning all year round. To make your own, simply gather some candles in various sizes and some natural elements like pinecones and greenery. Then, give them a magical makeover with metallic gold spray paint (or a touch of glue and glitter!). It's such an easy way to create a unique and sophisticated centerpiece.
6. Sparkly and Festive Glitter Candles
Source: christmassfeeling
Who needs expensive store-bought candles when you can create these beauties yourself? ✨ This DIY is so simple and fun, and it's a great way to add some sparkle to your Christmas decor. ✨ Just grab some red candles (or any color you like!), some masking tape, and your favorite glitter. Create stripes, swirls, or any design you like, then add a touch of glue and sprinkle on the glitter. ✨ It's that easy! Arrange your glittery creations on a tray with some festive ornaments, and you've got yourself a centerpiece that's both elegant and budget-friendly.
7. Rustic and Elegant Candle Wreath
Source: sylkescholz
This Christmas candle wreath is so simple to create, yet it makes such a big impact! ✨ I love how it combines the festive glow of candles with the rustic charm of natural elements. 🕯️🌿 Just arrange some greenery and berries in a circle, nestle in a few red pillar candles, and fill the center with a mix of walnuts and hazelnuts. It's that easy! This centerpiece adds a touch of warmth and elegance to any holiday table. Plus, the flickering candlelight creates such a cozy and inviting atmosphere. ✨
8. Cozy Cinnamon Stick Candles
Source: homestoriesatoz.com
These cinnamon stick candles are SO easy and SO cozy! 😍 I love the rustic charm they bring to any space, and the subtle scent of cinnamon is just perfect for fall and winter. 🍂✨ The best part? This DIY takes only 20 minutes! Just grab some pillar candles, cinnamon sticks, and twine, and you're ready to create a centerpiece that will impress your guests (and make your home smell amazing!). I can't wait to make a whole bunch of these for my Thanksgiving table!
9. Frosted and Festive Etched Candle Holders
Source: thediydreamer.com
These etched candle holders are so elegant and festive! ✨ I love the frosted look and the delicate berry branch design. They add a touch of wintery charm to any space. ❄️ And the best part? They're surprisingly easy to make! Just grab some glass vases, etching cream, and some berry branch stickers (or any festive design you like!). Apply the stickers, etch the glass, and voilà! You've got yourself some beautiful candle holders that are perfect for Christmas. 🕯️ I can't wait to make a whole set of these for my holiday table!
10. Dreamy Snowdrift Candle Holders
Source: lifeatcloverhill.com
These snowdrift candle holders are SO dreamy! ✨ They capture the magic of a snowy Christmas Eve and bring a touch of winter wonderland to your home. ❄️ I love how the etched glass mimics the look of frosted windows, and the Epsom salt adds a touch of sparkle and texture. ✨ They're surprisingly easy to make too! Just grab some glass candle holders, etching cream, and Epsom salt, and get ready to transform your space. 🕯️ These would look stunning on a holiday table or mantelpiece.
11. Charming Decoupage Candles
Source: craftymorning.com
These decoupage candles are SO charming! 😍 I love how they capture the vintage charm of Christmas with those adorable napkin designs. Imagine the warm glow of candlelight illuminating a snowy scene or a vintage red truck. ✨ It's like bringing a Christmas card to life! And the best part? This DIY is surprisingly easy. Just grab some pillar candles, festive napkins, and Mod Podge, and get ready to transform those plain candles into works of art. 🎨 I can't wait to display these beauties on my mantelpiece this Christmas!
12. Homemade Holiday Scents
Source: livingwellmom.com
These DIY Christmas candles are the perfect way to fill your home with festive scents and cozy vibes! ✨ I love how they're made with pure essential oils, so you can enjoy the aroma of Christmas without any harsh chemicals. Imagine the warm glow of candlelight combined with the invigorating scent of pine needles and frankincense. 🌲✨ It's like bringing the Christmas tree indoors! Plus, these candles make wonderful homemade gifts. 🎁
13. Festive Peppermint Candles
These DIY peppermint mason jar candles are the perfect homemade gift for the holidays! 🎁 I love how they combine the cozy glow of candlelight with the invigorating scent of peppermint. ✨ They're surprisingly easy to make too! Just melt some soy wax, add a few drops of peppermint essential oil, and pour it into mason jars. Then, decorate with festive touches like twine, ribbon, and faux greenery. 🌿 These candles make wonderful gifts for friends, teachers, and neighbors. Plus, they're a great way to add a touch of homemade charm to your own holiday decor.
14. Cute Hot Chocolate Candles
Source: confessionsofahomeschooler.com
These hot chocolate candles are almost too cute to handle! 😍 They look good enough to eat, with their mini marshmallows, candy canes, and sprinkles. ☕ And the best part? They're super easy to make! Just grab some mugs (those snowman and penguin ones are adorable!), fill them with wax, and decorate with your favorite hot cocoa toppings. It's a fun and festive activity to do with kids, and the finished candles make wonderful gifts for friends and family. 🎁 Plus, they add a touch of playful charm to your holiday decor.
15. Personalized Candles for Everyone
Source: the36thavenue.com
These DIY Christmas candles are SO adorable, and they make the perfect homemade gifts for everyone on your list! 🎁 I love how creative and festive they are, with their snowman faces, candy cane stripes, and reindeer antlers. ⛄🦌 Plus, they're surprisingly easy to make! Just grab some plain pillar candles, paint, ribbon, buttons, and other embellishments, and let your imagination run wild! 🎨 These candles are a wonderful way to add a personal touch to your gift-giving this year. And let's be honest, who wouldn't love to receive a handmade candle that smells amazing and looks this cute? 😉