This Modern DIY Candelabra Is the Envy of the Block
A plain wood block becomes a striking modern candelabra with just a few tools and easy-to-find materials
Modern style is characterized by simple and clean lines — an inherent minimalism that can be represented in a home’s floor plan, in the furniture and even in the smallest of details. A modern home is never heavy with decoration; its beauty is found in the simplicity and clean lines of your objects. A candelabra rarely connotes this style, usually evoking images of gaudy and gilded parlors. This weekend project puts a modern twist on the classic candelabra. It celebrates the simple shape and material of a wood block while being functional for use in a dining room or foyer.
The block of wood you pick out does not need to be special or expensive. Find something at your local hardware store and have it cut down. This piece of lumber is 4 inches by 6 inches by 18 inches. If you want the wood to have a certain tone or to match other woods in your home, you can stain it later. Scrap pieces work too. The knots and imperfections can really add to the beauty of the piece. Celebrate them!
Materials:
• Wood block
• Power drill and various size drill bits
• Wood stain
• Acrylic paint
• Painter’s tape
• Sandpaper
• Sponge brush
• Candles
• Wood block
• Power drill and various size drill bits
• Wood stain
• Acrylic paint
• Painter’s tape
• Sandpaper
• Sponge brush
• Candles
1. Use sandpaper to even out the surface of the wood block. It should be smooth in preparation for staining or painting. This also makes it easier to handle.
2. Choose a wood stain in a hue you like. You may want to test the stain on a small section of the wood or on a scrap piece of wood beforehand. The stain used in this example is Antique Walnut. Use a sponge brush to evenly apply the stain to the wood. Follow drying instructions listed on the can. Apply a second coat if a deeper hue is desired.
3. If you are painting stripes on your wood block, use painter’s tape to mark the edge of each stripe. Apply multiple coats for even coverage and allow plenty of drying time between coats and colors. This block is 4 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches.
4. Determine which size drill bits will work with the candles you are going to use. For this example, the bigger candles needed a ¾-inch drill bit and the smaller ones needed a ¼-inch bit.
5. Demarcate the center of the wood block with painter’s tape. Use this as a guideline when drilling. You will want to evenly space out the candles. Determine the spacing and mark with a pencil on the tape.
6. Drill holes into your wood block. Drill them deep enough so that the candles can stand up straight without wobbling.
7. Place your candles into the drilled holes. If the candles are still a little big, shave off some of the wax at the end with a craft knife.
The colorful stripes on this candelabra have a fun and youthful spirit. If you like to make bold and graphic statements in your decor, this painted version will suit your style.
Tip: As with all candles, don't leave a flame unattended, and keep the flame well away from the base.
Tip: As with all candles, don't leave a flame unattended, and keep the flame well away from the base.
The stained wood grain adds rustic charm so that the piece feels warm but still modern.
More:
How to Get the Modern Rustic Look
More:
How to Get the Modern Rustic Look