Turning a Simple Glass Candle Holder into Decor
Have you ever looked at a plain glass candle holder and imagined what it could become with a few thoughtful layers?
This project is a beautiful reminder that even the most ordinary pieces can be transformed into something meaningful. Using rice paper, molded air-dry clay, gentle antiquing, and soft wax highlights, this tutorial walks through how to turn a simple glass candle holder into a layered decorative accent with a romantic, vintage feel.
Be sure to watch the full video tutorial below before starting.
Step 1: Preparing the Glass Surface
The project begins with a plain glass candle holder. Before adding anything decorative, the glass is thoroughly cleaned with alcohol to remove fingerprints and residue. This step is essential for proper adhesion.
Next, Polyvine Multi Surface Lacquer (Dead Flat) is brushed onto the glass. This product removes the slick shine from non-porous surfaces like glass and creates a gripping layer so paint and paper adhere properly. Once applied, the lacquer gives the glass a softly frosted appearance. For best results, this layer is allowed to dry overnight.
Step 2: Applying the Rice Paper
An A3 rice paper is used so the design can wrap around the candle holder without visible seams or heavy blending. The paper is measured slightly longer than needed, allowing excess to be sanded away later for a clean edge.
Rather than cutting, the edges are torn using a water brush, which helps the paper blend seamlessly. Polyvine Heavy Duty Varnish (Satin) is used as the decoupage adhesive, brushed onto the glass and over the paper as it’s applied. A damp plastic sheet is placed over the surface to gently smooth out bubbles and wrinkles.
The paper is left to dry for several hours before sanding the edges downward to remove excess paper cleanly.
Step 3: Building Shine and Depth
Once the paper is secure, additional coats of Polyvine Heavy Duty Varnish are applied. Between coats, the surface is lightly sanded with a fine-grit sandpaper to build a smooth, glass-like finish. Each coat is allowed to dry for a full hour, creating depth and clarity over the rice paper design.
Step 4: Creating Clay Embellishments
To add dimension, air-dry clay is pressed into molds to create decorative elements. After smoothing the clay, the pieces are placed in the freezer briefly so they release cleanly without damaging fine details.
A thin clay ribbon is also rolled out and cut to size to wrap around the top edge of the candle holder. This ribbon helps hide the edge of the rice paper and adds a finished, custom look. All clay elements are attached while still damp using Aleene’s Tacky Glue, allowing them to conform naturally to the glass as they dry. The piece is left to dry overnight.
Step 5: Painting and Shading the Clay
Once dry, the clay ribbon and bow are painted with a soft lavender base. A darker eggplant tone, thinned with water, is brushed on and wiped back to create shading in the creases. Light pink paint is dry-brushed across the raised areas to highlight texture without filling in the details.
Before antiquing, the clay and surrounding areas are sealed with varnish to create a slick surface that allows the antique to wipe back cleanly.
Step 6: Antiquing and Final Sealing
A diluted antiquing medium is brushed over the embellishments and wiped back immediately. The antique settles into cracks and crevices, giving the clay depth and a softly aged look that ties it in with the rice paper design.
After drying, another coat of Polyvine Heavy Duty Varnish is applied to protect the finish and add a gentle satin sheen.
Step 7: Wax Highlights and Finishing Touches
The final step is adding subtle glimmer. Wax rubs are applied lightly to the high points of the bow, ribbon, and edges to catch the light without overwhelming the design. A silver luster wax is added along the top rim of the glass for a refined finish.
Because waxes are always applied last, no sealing is required. The finished candle holder feels layered, soft, and thoughtfully detailed—perfect for cozy decor or gifting.
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