This project is a wonderful way to turn leftover pallet planks into festive wooden candles.
Each column is built from pallet boards cut to varying heights, fixed on a sturdy square base for balance.
Bonus, the flame is carved from a thinner piece of wood, cut into a teardrop shape, and attached to the top.
Once painted, you can decorate them with jute twine and wooden stars for extra character.
These candles make stunning porch décor, stand well indoors, and can be customized in different colors to match your holiday palette.
Materials Needed
- Pallet planks (cut into columns: 24”, 30”, and 36” lengths)
- Square wooden bases (6” × 6” each)
- Thin plywood or scrap wood for flames (approx. 6” tall teardrop shapes)
- Wood screws or nails
- Wood glue
- Acrylic paint (red, white, blue, or custom colors)
- Sandpaper
- Jute twine (3-4 ft. per candle)
- Small wooden stars or ornaments
- Paintbrushes
- Drill and screws
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut your pallet planks into different lengths to form candle columns. Then sand each piece until smooth.
Step 2: Attach each column to a square wooden base with wood glue and screws, making sure it stands firmly.
Step 3: Cut flame shapes from thin plywood and sand the edges. Then attach them securely to the tops of the columns.
Step 4: Paint the columns in your chosen holiday colors, leaving the flames natural or lightly stained for contrast.
Step 5: Once dry, wrap jute twine around the top of each candle and let strands hang down. Next, add wooden stars or ornaments to the twine for detail.
Step 6: Arrange your candles together in clusters of three or more for a dramatic holiday effect.
Tips:
If you want these to sparkle at night, you can place small LED fairy lights behind them to mimic a glowing flame.