Make Your Own Baluster Candleholders

One or more of these unique candleholders will literally brighten up any room.

by Neva Scott, in “Decorating Cottage Style”

Topics: crafts, home decorating, diy, easy decor projects More

Materials:

Old baluster
2 x 6 board, for base
2-inch decorative molding, approximately 2 feet per base
Brads
Heavy-duty adhesive bond
Wood screws
Candle, 1-inch wide
Handsaw
Level
Straightedge ruler
Pencil
Drill with assorted bits, including a 1-inch bit
Miter box and backsaw
Hammer
Nail set
Screwdriver

Step 1. Cut any uneven pieces off the baluster, then decide which end will serve as the candleholder. You want to make sure the baluster is level.

Step 2. Drill a 1-inch hole into the center of the baluster top where the candle will fit.

Step 3. Decide on a size for the base. Keep in mind that it must accommodate the shape and height of the baluster. If the base is wide, the candleholder will be stable. Cut out the base block from the 2 x 6 board.

Step 4. If you're decorating the base, measure and cut the molding to fit the base. One or more of these unique candleholders will literally brighten up any room. A cinch to make, they consist of little more than balusters, 2 x 6s, and decorative molding. You can paint or distress the finished product as you like.

Step 5. Miter the corners of the molding.

Step 6. Attach the miter to the base with brads using a nail set to tap the brads into the wood.

Step 7. Place the baluster on the center of the base and draw a pencil outline around it onto the base. Apply a thin layer of glue to the bottom of the base and put the baluster on the center of the base. Let the baluster dry, then turn the candleholder upside down and reinforce it with a wood screw.