I have seen a lot of different ways to use wood to make ornaments and candle holders using old firewood and logs. I like the rustic and natural look of the wood so I’m going to make some ornaments, cedar candle holders and candles using wood covered containers.

CANDLE HOLDERS

These were left over cedar pieces from making the wood slices and other projects.

I clamped the wood and drilled with an 1 1/2″ bit to the depth of a votive candle.

I then sanded and varnished the top only. After the varnish dried, I added the votive candles.

Now they are ready to display.

MAKING CANDLES

I wanted to make a few candles for Christmas, but I wanted something rustic. I used soy wax and added pumpkin wax scent.

I purchased these birch wrapped containers of various sizes, and I used these to make Christmas candles.

Let the candle wax hardened over night. Cut the wick to desired length and now they are ready to display.

SLICED WOOD ORNAMENTS

I used fresh cedar and aged oak firewood to make the ornaments.

I first cut the wood into 1/4- 1/2″ slices. I chose a width of about 4-5 inches. This size is easy to cut.

I then drilled a small hole for the hanger. I then sanded each slice for a smooth finish in front and back. I left the outer ring natural.

I then hung the slices up and spray painted with clear gloss to bring out the natural color in the wood.

After they were dry, I was ready to finish decorating them.

I then glued these rusted cut metal snowflakes on the wood. I applied some Elmers glue and white glitter to each snowflake.

Once the glue is dried then I added a wire hanger and they are ready to use.