Ingredients
- 1 clear glass votive candle holder, about 2.5 inches tall and 2.25 inches wide
- 8 to 12 small pressed flowers and leaves, each about 1/2 inch to 1.5 inches wide
- 2 tablespoons clear water-based decoupage medium, such as Mod Podge
- 1 tablespoon clear water-based acrylic sealer, brush-on type
- 1 small natural-bristle or soft synthetic craft brush, about 1/2 inch wide
- 1 pair fine-tip tweezers, about 4.5 inches long
- 1 small pair of sharp craft scissors, about 4 inches long
- 1 lint-free cloth, about 12 inches square
- 1 tablespoon rubbing alcohol, 70 percent
- 1 small paper cup for the adhesive
- 1 small paper cup for the sealer
- 1 sheet plain white paper, about 8.5 by 11 inches
- 1 sheet wax paper, about 12 by 12 inches
- 1 disposable table covering, about 2 feet by 3 feet
- 1 pair nitrile or household gloves, optional for handling adhesive and sealer
- 1 unscented votive candle in a metal cup, about 1.5 inches wide
Instructions
- Cover your table with the disposable covering before you open the adhesive.
- Wash the glass holder with warm soapy water, then dry it completely.
- Pour the rubbing alcohol onto the lint-free cloth and wipe the outside of the glass to remove fingerprints and residue. Let the surface air-dry for about 5 minutes.
- Spread the plain white paper on your covered table and arrange the pressed flowers on top. Keep the lower third of the holder fairly open so the flame has clear space.
- Pour the 2 tablespoons of decoupage medium into the paper cup.
- Use the 1/2-inch brush to paint a very thin coat over one small area of the glass, about 2 inches wide.
- Lift one flower with the tweezers and set it onto the wet adhesive. Start with the center of the flower, then press outward with the dry side of the brush or a clean fingertip.
- Continue placing the flowers and leaves one at a time, leaving small spaces between pieces so the glass still catches the candlelight.
- Brush a thin coat of decoupage medium over the entire outside surface, including the flowers.
- Set the holder on the wax paper and leave it undisturbed for at least 2 hours.
- Look at the holder in daylight and decide whether it needs another thin coat.
- Pour the 1 tablespoon of clear acrylic sealer into the second paper cup.
- Brush one light coat over the outside of the holder, using long strokes and avoiding a puddle around the bottom rim.
- Allow the completed holder to cure for 24 hours.
- Trim any loose flower fibers with the small scissors after the finish has dried.
Notes
Keep the flame at least 12 inches from flammable materials. An adult should handle the rubbing alcohol, scissors, adhesive cleanup, and candle. Dispose of leftover paint and solvent properly.
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
