Easy DIY Reclaimed Wood Centerpiece: 22 Taper Candle Holder.

If you want to add a rustic, cozy atmosphere to your dining table, this budget-friendly DIY taper candle holder is the perfect solution. This dramatic 22-candle centerpiece is made from reclaimed wood, making it both eco-friendly and beautiful. After spotting stunning multi-candle displays on Pinterest, I knew I had to create a version that was both affordable and easy to build. The best part? This project takes only minutes to assemble. Below, Iโ€™ll share the exact steps and spacing tips to help you create this statement piece for your home.

Dramatic 22 Candle Reclaimed Wood Centerpiece Tutorial

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Multi-Candle Centerpiece Materials: Why Use Reclaimed Wood

I’m always looking for ways to upcycle scrap wood that we have left over from other projects. I found these reclaimed pieces of wood in my stash and knew the old wood would help to add character to the piece. In addition, using reclaimed materials is cost-effective and eco-friendly. This sustainable DIY decor project is one you will use for years to come.

New Wood Option

If you don’t have access to old wood, you can make this project with new wood. New wood will not have the character of old wood, but never fear: there are techniques to help you give it the appearance of aged wood. You can readย “How toย Make New Wood Look Like Old Barn Wood” for all the tips. If you use this technique, allow for drying time before beginning the project.

Supply List


How To Prepare Wood

First, trim your boards to the size you want your candle holder to be. I used two boards for my candle centerpiece. One reclaimed 2×4 board was exactly the length I needed at 28 inches. The second tongue-and-groove board was long enough to cut into two pieces with a miter saw. The finished two boards are 29 inches long.


How To Attach Boards for a Candle Holder

First, please align the boards by ensuring they are evenly spaced around the edges. The 2 x 4 is smaller than the tongue-and-groove boards, so I positioned it in the center of the upper and lower boards.

We began by attaching the bottom board to the 2×4 board with 2 wood screws. Counter sink the screws to keep the bottom level. Then we added four screws to attach the top board. I recommend drilling small pilot holes for the screws to avoid splitting the wood.

Align boards evenly to make candle holder

Optional – Attach Handles

I decided to add a couple of drawer pulls to each end of the boards for easier carrying. The handles are optional, but if you plan to add them, begin with pilot holes and then use the screws provided with the handles to attach.

Attach handles to ends of the candle holder.  Cottage style DIY centerpiece for rustic table.

Measuring and Drilling Candle Holes

First, determine how many candles you want in your centerpiece, then draw your pattern on the top of your centerpiece board using a ruler or tape measure. My pattern included 22 holes. If you want a perfectly spaced pattern, I recommend drawing a template on paper to use as a guide.

I placed each candle hole approximately 1 inch apart, forming two rows. I staggered the front row from the back so that the candles would all be visible from the front.

We used a 7/8-inch drill bit; however, double-check the candles you plan to use for size. Mark each hole with a pencil so you can see it clearly on the board. Drill each hole approximately 1 inch deep.

Drill holes for DIY Reclaimed Wood Candle Holder Centerpiece

Insider Tip

If you are using a handheld drill, you want to ensure that each hole is the same depth. The best way to ensure the depth to mark your drill bit at the exact depth. You can add a pieces of tape to mark the spot. You can also use a drill press for this step and set the depth before beginning.

You will need to smooth the edges of each drilled hole. You can use sandpaper. I used myย Ryobi Cordless Rotary Toolย to quickly smooth each candle hole.

Use rotary tool to sand drilled holes for DIY Candle Holder Centerpiece

Candles for the Centerpiece

Although all my wood supplies were free, adding candles was a different story. The DIY multi-candle holder has 22 candles. I used three different colors of candles and two lengths to make the centerpiece more interesting.

I used a combination of 8- and 10 inch candles in white, grey, and copper candles.

Candle Options

I have also used the candle holder with battery-operated taper candles. This is a safe alternative for creating a stunning centerpiece.

They look beautiful on the table at night and add a warm, cozy glow to the screened porch. I’m glad I added the handles because they allow the candle centerpiece to be moved easily off the table.

DIY 22 Candle Reclaimed Wood Centerpiece

Styling Ideas for 22 Candle Holder Centerpiece

In addition to our screen porch table, the multi-candleholder centerpiece is perfect for our dining table.

Candle Holder with 22 candles.  DIY Craft Project

Combined with these DIY Twig Napkin Rings, neutral dishes, and a tablecloth, it was easy to create a Cozy Winter Tablescape.

I’ve moved the centerpiece to several areas of the farmhouse to add a warm, cozy feel to each room.

Cozy Winter Tablescape with DIY Candleholder and rustic twig napkin rings.

Other Styling Ideas for Candle Centerpiece

The candle centerpiece is perfect for all seasons. Here are some seasonal ideas for using the candle holder.

  • Red and white candles for Valentine’s Day
  • Pastel Candles with Greenery wrapped around the holder for Easter
  • Add red and green, with a mix of greenery or berries, for Christmas.

In addition, this centerpiece would be stunning for Weddings, Bridal Showers, and anniversary celebrations.

FAQ

Yes, it would be lovely painted for special occasions such as weddings or seasonal tablescapes.

Absolutely! The size and shape can vary depending on your decor style and space. You can make it larger or smaller.

That is completely optional. I did not seal mine, however if you prefer a less rustic appearance, using a sealer would be a good option. I would recommend a wax sealer to help keep the natural look of the wood.

Thanks so much for stopping by today. I look forward to sharing my next adventure with you.

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43 Comments

  1. Rachel, what a great tutorial. I like this because you can customize the length and the candle height and color for a seasonal touch. Thanks for sharing!

  2. What a beautiful project! I love that you added handles and can use different colored candles for different seasons and occasions. Using old wood is so much fun!

  3. Popping back in to say I love this so much I’m featuring it on Farmhouse Friday! Thank you for sharing it with us and hope you link up again. I always love what you add.

  4. I absolutely adore everything about your candle centerpiece! You always come up with the best ideas, Rachel. pinned

  5. That is awesome, so pretty! And the candles make it even better! I showed this to my husband and he said he would make me one!! Thank you for sharing.

  6. Rachel, I love this project. I need to get the rotary sander……candle colors are perfect.

  7. Rachel, I love your candle centrepiece! It’s so unique! I love that you put handles on it. Such a great idea! Thanks for sharing your wonderful DIY with us!

  8. Thanks you so much for this. I love the idea and it looks great! I am looking forward to making one for my dining room table.

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