Imagine dimming the lights at dinner and seeing your candles come alive, not just with firelight but with painted pumpkins and autumn leaves dancing along the wax.

It feels like Thanksgiving in miniature, each candle telling its own story.

One has candy corn stacked tall, another shows falling leaves, while another glows with little pumpkins.

The best part is that each design can be as whimsical or rustic as you like.

Materials Needed

• 5-6 white taper candles (10-12” tall)
• Acrylic paints in fall shades (orange, red, yellow, green, black)
• Fine paintbrush set (sizes 0-2 for detail, size 4-6 for leaves)
• Pencil (optional)
• Paper plate or palette
• Clear sealant spray safe for candles (optional for longer-lasting designs)

Step-by-step Guide

Step 1: Clean the surface of each candle with a soft cloth to remove any dust or residue.

Step 2: Lightly sketch designs if you prefer such as pumpkins, acorns, candy corn, bats, or leaves all work beautifully.

Step 3: Use fine brushes to paint your chosen patterns. Start with base colors, then layer details like leaf veins or pumpkin stems.

Step 4: Let each candle dry completely before moving on to the next.

Step 5: If you want to preserve your work, lightly spray with a candle-safe clear sealant.

Notes:

These candles are best used as decorative centerpieces. If you choose to burn them, keep a tray or glass holder underneath, as the paint may drip.

A fun idea is to paint one candle for each guest, so everyone has a little handmade piece of Thanksgiving to take home.