Learning how to decorate candles with napkins is a simple, yet stunning, way to personalize your home decor or create unique handmade gifts. With just a few supplies, you can transform plain candles into eye-catching centerpieces, seasonal decorations, or thoughtful presents!
Whether you’re making elegant floral candles, festive holiday designs, or customized pieces for special occasions, this napkin decoupage candle craft is perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike. Display them on a mantel, use them as table decor, or share them as party favours; however you use them, these DIY candles are sure to impress!
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How to Decorate Candles with Napkins
Equipment:
Watch the step-by-step video tutorial:
Instructions:
Step 1: Find what you need
- Gather your supplies and materials.
Step 2: Prepare the napkin
- Unfold a paper napkin and peel off the top patterned layer.
- Cut a piece of napkin that’s just big enough to cover the candle and wrap around. (Cut it a bit bigger at first, then adjust the size).
- Set the napkin on your working surface with the pattern side facing down. Place the candle in the center.
- Wrap the napkin around the candle.
- Then wrap a piece of parchment paper around the candle, on top of the napkin.
Step 3: Iron the candle
- Pre-heat your iron to low heat, no steam.
- Hold the iron against the parchment-covered candle, applying gentle pressure. Turn the candle slowly and carefully to apply even heat. Don’t stay in one place for too long.
- Continue until you’ve made your way around the whole candle and the napkin is smoothly fused to the candle’s surface.Pay close attention to the top and bottom of the candle, going in on angle with the iron, if needed.
Step 4: Remove the parchment paper
- Peel the parchment paper off the candle. If there are any areas of the napkin that didn’t stick well, you can put the parchment paper back on and re-apply heat.
- Your candle decorated with napkins is complete!
- You can make a matching set or mix and match your napkin designs like we did!
Helpful Tips:
- To create a nice, smooth surface on the finished candles, use a soft cloth to buff it gently.
- Some wax may drip from the candle as the heat of the iron melts it. You can cover your work surface with more parchment paper, a plastic table cloth, or even paper towels to protect it from hot wax drips.
Can I burn my napkin candle?
For safety reasons, we recommend using these napkin-decorated candles exclusively for decorative purposes rather than burning. If you do decide to light your decoupage candle, always supervise it closely and ensure the napkin remains embedded in the wax as it melts.
Keep an eye out for any exposed paper near the flame, as this could pose a fire risk. As with any candle, never leave it burning unattended.
For a safer alternative that kids can help make, try a LED flameless candle. Then use Mod Podge to add the napkin design!
Do I have to use a white candle to decoupage napkins on candles?
We used white candles for melting napkins onto candles, but other candle colours can also work well. The key is to choose a candle that’s lighter than the colours in your napkin design.
Since napkin paper is very thin, the candle’s colour will show through, especially in lighter areas of the design. If the candle’s too dark, the pattern may not be visible.
For the best results, try using light pastel coloured candles paired with bright napkin designs to add a pop of colour to your napkin candle craft.
Can I use a different type of candle to do a napkin transfer to candle?
We found pillar candles to be the easiest for decoupaging napkins onto candles. They also have the most space for adding a design.
But you can also use the iron-on method with other candle types, such as votive or taper candles. Just ensure the candle is large enough to hold safely while applying heat to attach the napkin design. You may want to hold the votive with metal tongs and/or wear an oven mitt to prevent burns.
Learning how to decorate candles with napkins is an easy and creative way to refresh your home decor with custom designs. From intricate patterns to bold, colourful prints, this simple technique lets you achieve a professional-looking finish without the need for specialty tools.
Whether you’re crafting for relaxation, experimenting with different textures, or looking for a budget-friendly DIY project, napkin decoupage on candles is a fun and versatile craft anyone can enjoy!
Here’s even more candle decorating ideas:
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