DIY Scandinavian Style Candle Holders Using Natural Materials: Embrace Minimalist Elegance

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The Scandinavian design aesthetic is known for its simplicity, functionality, and natural beauty. It’s a style that focuses on clean lines, neutral tones, and the warmth of natural materials—perfect for creating a cozy and inviting home. What better way to bring this aesthetic into your space than by crafting your own DIY Scandinavian-style candle holders? These understated yet beautiful pieces can add a soft glow and minimalist charm to your home.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to create Scandinavian-style candle holders using natural materials such as wood, twigs, stone, and clay. With easy-to-follow steps, these DIY projects will help you embrace the hygge lifestyle—celebrating coziness, warmth, and simplicity.

1. Why Choose Scandinavian Style for Candle Holders?

Key Elements of Scandinavian Design:

  1. Natural Materials: Wood, stone, and organic textures are at the heart of Scandinavian decor.
  2. Neutral Tones: Soft colors like white, beige, and light gray create a calm and clean aesthetic.
  3. Minimalism: Scandinavian design is all about simplicity and functionality, with no unnecessary embellishments.
  4. Cozy Vibes: Candles play a big role in adding warmth and ambiance to Scandinavian-inspired homes, especially during long winters.

Why DIY?

  • Customization: Tailor the size, shape, and material to your personal style.
  • Sustainability: Use natural or upcycled materials to create eco-friendly decor.
  • Budget-Friendly: Crafting your own candle holders is more affordable than purchasing designer pieces.

2. Materials You Can Use for Scandinavian Candle Holders

Natural Materials to Incorporate:

  1. Wood: Birch, pine, driftwood, or reclaimed wood.
  2. Twigs and Branches: Gathered from your yard or a nearby forest.
  3. Clay or Terracotta: Perfect for molding minimalist designs.
  4. Stone: Smooth river rocks or rough-textured stones for a rustic touch.
  5. Cork: Lightweight, easy to work with, and sustainable.
  6. Glass: Reuse old jars or bottles for simple, elegant candle holders.

Pro Tip:

Stick to materials in their raw or lightly finished state to keep the natural aesthetic intact.

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3. DIY Ideas for Scandinavian Style Candle Holders

1. Wooden Block Candle Holders

  • Materials Needed:
    • A wooden block or log (birch works beautifully for a Scandinavian look).
    • Drill with a spade or Forstner bit (size depends on your candle diameter).
    • Sandpaper (medium and fine grit).
    • Wood finish or sealant (optional).
  • Steps:
    1. Cut the wooden block to your desired size (e.g., 4–6 inches tall).
    2. Sand the edges and surfaces to remove splinters and smooth the texture.
    3. Use a drill to create a hole deep enough to hold a taper or tea light candle.
    4. Seal the wood with a natural wood finish, or leave it raw for a rustic look.
    5. Insert the candle and enjoy the soft glow.
  • Pro Tip:
    Group different heights of wooden candle holders together for visual interest.

2. Twig Wrapped Candle Holders

  • Materials Needed:
    • Small glass jars or votive holders.
    • Twigs or thin branches (cut to size).
    • Twine or jute string.
    • Hot glue gun.
  • Steps:
    1. Clean and dry your glass jar or votive holder.
    2. Cut twigs or thin branches to the height of the jar.
    3. Glue the twigs around the jar, placing them tightly next to each other.
    4. Wrap twine or jute string around the jar for added texture and security.
    5. Place a candle inside and light it to enjoy the rustic ambiance.
  • Pro Tip:
    Use twigs of varying thickness for a natural, imperfect look.

3. Stone Candle Holders

  • Materials Needed:
    • Smooth river stones or flat rocks.
    • Super glue or epoxy adhesive.
    • Tea light candles.
  • Steps:
    1. Choose stones that are large enough to hold a tea light candle securely.
    2. Stack and glue stones together to create height, or use a single large stone.
    3. Carve or chisel a shallow indentation in the stone (optional) to hold the candle in place.
    4. Let the adhesive dry completely before placing the candle.
  • Pro Tip:
    Combine stone candle holders with wooden accents for a balanced Scandinavian design.

4. Minimalist Clay Candle Holders

  • Materials Needed:
    • Air-dry clay or oven-bake clay.
    • Rolling pin.
    • Knife or clay shaping tools.
    • Sandpaper (fine grit).
  • Steps:
    1. Roll out the clay to about 1/2-inch thickness.
    2. Cut out circular or square bases for the candle holder.
    3. Form a ring or cylinder to hold the candle and attach it to the base.
    4. Smooth edges with water and let the clay dry (air-dry or bake as per instructions).
    5. Sand lightly for a smooth finish, and paint or leave it raw for a natural look.
  • Pro Tip:
    Experiment with geometric shapes for a modern Scandinavian vibe.

5. Driftwood Candle Holders

  • Materials Needed:
    • A piece of driftwood.
    • Drill with a Forstner bit (size matches your tea lights).
    • Sandpaper.
  • Steps:
    1. Choose a piece of driftwood with an interesting shape.
    2. Drill evenly spaced holes for tea light candles along the top of the wood.
    3. Sand any rough edges to avoid splinters.
    4. Place tea lights in the drilled holes and light them.
  • Pro Tip:
    Pair driftwood candle holders with soft linens and neutral decor for a cozy, beach-inspired look.

6. Cork Candle Holders

  • Materials Needed:
    • Cork sheets or wine corks.
    • Craft knife or scissors.
    • Hot glue gun.
  • Steps:
    1. Cut cork sheets into circular bases and build a cylindrical wall around them to hold candles.
    2. If using wine corks, cut them to uniform heights and glue them together to form a base.
    3. Place a candle inside the cork structure.
  • Pro Tip:
    Cork is naturally fire-resistant, but never leave candles unattended to ensure safety.

4. Styling Scandinavian Candle Holders

How to Incorporate Candle Holders Into Your Decor:

  1. Groupings: Arrange candle holders in groups of three or five for a balanced, natural look.
  2. Neutral Palettes: Stick to colors like white, beige, gray, or natural wood tones.
  3. Layering: Place candle holders on wooden trays, linen runners, or atop stacked books.
  4. Natural Accents: Pair them with greenery, pinecones, or dried flowers for added texture.
  5. Seasonal Touches: Add sprigs of eucalyptus or cinnamon sticks for a winter-inspired look.

Pro Tip:

Use LED candles for a safer alternative that still provides a warm, flickering glow.

5. Safety Tips for Candle Holders

  • Always place candles on heat-resistant surfaces.
  • Keep candles away from flammable materials like curtains or paper.
  • Never leave candles unattended while burning.
  • Ensure the holder is stable to prevent tipping.
  • Use proper ventilation when working with adhesives or paints.

FAQs: Scandinavian Candle Holders

1. Can I make these candle holders with kids?
Yes, but supervise closely, especially when using tools like drills, knives, or hot glue guns.

2. What types of candles work best for these holders?
Tea lights, taper candles, or LED candles are great options depending on your holder design.

3. Where can I source natural materials for these projects?
Look in your yard, nearby forests, beaches, or craft stores for wood, stones, and twigs.

4. Can I paint my candle holders?
Yes! Use neutral or muted tones like white, gray, or beige for a Scandinavian aesthetic.

5. How do I clean wooden candle holders?
Wipe them gently with a damp cloth and avoid using excessive water to prevent warping.

6. Are these candle holders suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, but choose weather-resistant materials like stone or treated wood for durability.

7. Can I use reclaimed materials for this project?
Absolutely! Reclaimed wood, old jars, or scrap cork are perfect for an eco-friendly approach.

8. How do I make sure the candle fits snugly in the holder?
Use a drill bit that matches the candle’s diameter or add a layer of melted wax for a tighter fit.

9. Can I seal my wooden holders?
Yes, use a clear, natural wood sealant to protect the holder while maintaining its raw look.

10. What makes these candle holders “Scandinavian”?
The focus on minimalism, natural materials, and neutral colors aligns with the Scandinavian design philosophy.

Conclusion

Crafting your own DIY Scandinavian-style candle holders is a delightful way to embrace minimalism, natural beauty, and sustainability in your home. Whether you choose wood, stone, or clay, these elegant yet simple designs can elevate your decor and bring warmth to any space. Perfect for cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, or simply brightening up your home, these projects celebrate the essence of Scandinavian living—functional, beautiful, and deeply connected to nature.

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