Prayer Candle DIY: Artistic Transformation that's Fun and Easy!

Donna from Mason Creations etc. is back with a stunning tutorial that shows just how easy and rewarding it is to transform an everyday white prayer candle into a decorative keepsake using rice paper, clay molds, and high-quality finishes. This project is perfect for crafters of all skill levels — and the results are truly beautiful.

Watch Donna’s full tutorial below, then follow our step-by-step guide to create your own.

Step 1: Prep the Candle

Start by wiping your white prayer candle with an alcohol pad to remove any oils or residue. Then brush on a coat of Polyvine Multi-Surface Lacquer (Dead Flat Finish). This creates a perfect base layer by cutting the shine and giving your rice paper and paints something to grip. Let it dry overnight for best results.

Step 2: Apply the Rice Paper Design

Donna chose a marble-patterned rice paper for the background. To fit it precisely to the candle, she uses a water brush to tear the edges (rather than cutting), which helps it blend naturally onto curved surfaces. Once it’s sized, place the paper on the candle and brush Polyvine Decorators Varnish over the top. This product acts as both glue and sealer, going on smooth and drying crystal clear.

Step 3: Seal the Background

Once the rice paper layer is dry, coat the entire surface with Polyvine Heavy Duty Wood Varnish in Satin Finish. This protects your work and adds a soft shine that enhances the marbled look. Let dry for an hour before moving to the next step.

Step 4: Add Molded Embellishments

Using Das air dry clay, Donna presses the clay into one of our Accent Silicone Molds — she uses a lovely Jesus and lilies design. After scraping off excess clay, she smooths the back with a bit of water and places the mold in the freezer for 20 minutes. Once frozen, the hardened clay pops right out without damage. Let thaw briefly before cleaning up the edges.

While the clay is still damp, adhere it to your candle using tacky glue. Press gently so it conforms to the candle’s shape. Donna even rolls a thin piece of clay to replace a halo that broke — a great reminder that imperfections are easy to fix along the way.

Step 5: Paint and Seal Again

Once the clay is fully dry (overnight is best), Donna paints the embellishment using Dixie Belle chalk paint in Magnolia, a soft white that blends seamlessly with the marble background. After drying, she applies another coat of the satin Polyvine Heavy Duty Wood Varnish to seal the paint.

Step 6: Antique the Details

To bring out the depth in the molded image, Donna mixes a custom antiquing glaze using paint and a glazing medium. She brushes it on, then wipes it off with a soft cloth, allowing the pigment to settle into the crevices for an aged look. For more control, she dampens the cloth to remove heavier areas.

Step 7: Add Accents

Using Pentart red and silver paints, Donna adds color to the heart and halo of the molded design. She also gives the candle’s glass rim a metallic silver shine using a sponge dauber, perfect for crisp edge work.

Step 8: Final Shine & Finish

To get that beautiful high-end finish, she lightly sands the surface and uses a Polyvine varnish brush to apply a final coat of the satin Polyvine Heavy Duty Wood Varnish. This brush is designed to eliminate stroke marks and produces a gorgeous self-leveling sheen. You can repeat the varnish and sanding steps until the shine is just right.

Donna’s project is not only inspiring — it’s achievable for beginners and pros alike. She’s tested every step and every product, and we’re proud to say they’re all available right here at DecoupageNapkins.com.

Thank you to Donna at Mason Creations etc. for sharing her talent and crafting wisdom with our community once again. Be sure to watch the full video above for the full visual tutorial and tips.

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