She Transforms PVC Pipes Into Jumbo Candle Holders That Look High-End

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Oversized candle holders can make a room feel layered and expensive, but the ones in home decor stores are often pricey, and the cheaper versions tend to look it. Luckily, a DIYer, @glamwithisis found the fix in the plumbing aisle: Cut a length of PVC pipe to the height you want, set it on a base plate, and cover it with pretty contact paper to give it a natural stone look. The result? A jumbo candle holder that looks like a boutique piece at a fraction of the price.

Though PVC pipes are typically used in plumbing, they're a smart pick for this project because they're lightweight, inexpensive, and sold in a range of widths. So, skip pricey candle holders and try a cheaper way to decorate your home with this DIY instead. And chances are you already have most of the finishing supplies at home, like leftover contact paper, adhesive window film, or peel-and-stick wallpaper (bonus points if it mimics the look of marble) and a wide-mouth plastic container (PVC duct reducer or craft-material tub works). Besides, you'll need a strong adhesive (think E6000), a glass plate for a stable base, and a hacksaw or miter saw to cut your pipe to the desired height. You'll also need jumbo LED candles, such as Homemory's 6 inch by 9 inch Extra Large Outdoor Waterproof Candle, to complete the look. Don't use real ones since the heat can melt the plastic pipe and lead to unwarranted fires. Spray paint is optional, and you can get a can in any color you like to boost your candle holder's aesthetic appeal.

Before you decorate anything, decide how the candle will sit on top. The simplest option is to pick a pipe as wide as your candle, so it rests on the rim instead of dropping inside. And if you have a wider pipe on hand, set a PVC duct reducer on top and place the candle in it. Fit the narrow end into the pipe and keep the wide end free for a jumbo-size pillar candle.

Once you've picked your setup, move on to the finish, since that is what will make your pipe stop looking like a part of your home's plumbing. To achieve the desired effect, lay contact paper all around your pipe for a gorgeous look. Keep pressing it down with every inch you cover to eliminate bubbles if any. If you don't have any left over from a previous project, you can order a fresh roll, like Veelike's Luxurious White Gold Marble Contact Paper or Veelike's Luxurious Purple Gold Marble Contact Paper. Alternatively, apply a coat of spray paint. For the base plate and top container, use the same contact paper or spray paint. But if it seems too matchy-matchy for your tastes, pick a paper or paint color in a complementary shade. You can even add a line or two of colored tape, stick a line of pearls, or glue a few wood beads to ensure your holder gels well with the overall decor scheme of your living or bedroom. Once the finishes are dry, it's time to assemble your candle holder. Attach your embellished pipe to the base plate and glue the duct reducer to the top. Set your jumbo candle in the base and it'll be ready for display.