DIY Wine Bottle Candle Holder: Step-by-Step Tutorial

Join me as I show you three simple and creative ways to turn a wine bottle into beautiful candle holders!

Candles in glass bottles, with wax dripped decoratively over them, are lit on a wooden table. A small, lit candle in a clear glass holder sits nearby. In the background, a floral arrangement with white and green flowers is visible.

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Hand Crafted Society

I’m so excited to be back with the Handcrafted Society after the holiday break! It feels great to jump back into our monthly blog hop and share some incredible creativity from talented bloggers across the country.

This month, we’re focusing on upcycling glass items, and let me tell you—the projects are nothing short of amazing! From stunning home decor to unique plates, the creativity in this group never ceases to inspire. I can’t wait for you to see what everyone has crafted.

So grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and join us as we showcase our latest DIYs. You’re sure to walk away with fresh inspiration for your next upcycling project!

You can see all of the bloggers posts at the end of this post.


Candleholders made from wine bottles

There’s something so charming about repurposing everyday items into beautiful home decor, and for any wine lover, empty wine bottles make a creative DIY project or holiday crafts. 

Instead of tossing them away, why not transform them into beautiful centerpieces or make a few holiday gifts? In this tutorial, I’ll show you three innovative ways to give wine bottles a stylish second life. 

These DIY wine bottle candle holders are simple to make and add a warm, inviting glow to any space. Whether making diy gifts or planning a big wedding day, these stunning creations will impress your guests and start a fun conversation. 

You can use almost any wine bottle to make these beautiful candle holders, but thicker bottles are easier to cut. 

Try your favorite bottle of wine, and be sure to save your old wine bottles. Or try a bottle of bubbles for a little thicker bottle. 

​

A lit candle placed inside a clear glass sits on a wooden table amidst other burning candles. In the background, blurred flowers and greenery contribute to a warm, ambient setting.
A dining table with a vase of white lilies in the background. In the foreground, glass bottles hold white taper candles of varying heights, and a small glass holds a white tealight candle. The scene is well-lit and elegant.

Materials you’ll need to make candlestick holders out of old wine bottles

A crafting kit with various tools arranged on a wooden surface. Includes a black board with rollers, a marker, a metal tool, a small transparent container, a rubber band, and a black sheet. A small green leaf is partially visible at the top.
Two empty wine bottles on a table: one clear and one green. The background features a pair of glass doors with greenery visible outside.


How to make wine bottle candles

Four lit taper candles in textured holders are arranged on a table, surrounded by greenery and white flowers. The background features a dimly lit room with patterned wallpaper and antique furniture.
Five lit taper candles with wax drippings are arranged on a table among green foliage and a floral arrangement. A single floating candle is in a clear glass container in the foreground. The setting is dimly lit, creating a warm ambiance.

Step 1: Remove the labels from the wine bottles

  • Remove label using hot water and a razor blade.
  • Dry the bottle entirely before cutting.
  • Mark the bottle at the desired height with a Sharpie pen.
Tip from wendy’s craft room:

If there is any sticky residue remaining on the glass bottles, use Goof Off to remove it. 

A glass bottle cutter sits on a wooden table. The device features a black base with adjustable metal components and five white wheels. A clear glass bottle is partially visible at the top of the image.
Close-up of a glass tube apparatus with a metal component on a black base. The tube contains a small, glowing purple line. Natural light filters from the background, highlighting the reflective surfaces.
A gloved hand stretching a transparent, flexible sheet over a metal clamp set on a wooden surface. A plant is blurred in the background. The scene suggests a science experiment or demonstration.

Step 2: How to turn a wine bottle into a candle holder

  • Adjust the backstop on the glass cutter.
  • Move the bottle to align the marking line with the glass cutting head. 
  • Adjust the backstop against the bottom of the bottle. 
  • Remove the entire bottle and tighten the screws. 
  • Replace the bottle on the cutter. 
Tip from wendy’s craft room:

Be sure to read all of the instructions before you start using the bottle cutter for your projects

Step 3: The cutting process to cut the wine bottles as candle holders

A large, clear glass bottle is placed horizontally on a white table with a string wrapped around its middle, possibly as a cutting guide. The bottle is supported by a makeshift holder with white wheels.
  • Adjust the cutting head so it is perpendicular to the bottle. (sightly facing up towards the bottle) 
  • Tighten the wingnut on the cutting head using the wrench.
  • Add a drop of canola oil on the blade using the eyedropper in the bottle-cutting kit. 
  • Rotate the bottle with medium pressure and a steady grip, slowly rolling the bottle towards you. Be sure to always keep the bottom of the bottle firmly against the backstop. Rotate the bottle one full turn. 
  • Do not go over the score line more than once; make sure it is straight and connected end to end, or you will not get a clean cut.
Tip from wendy’s craft room:

If this is your first time cutting wine bottles, I recommend saving a few extras for practice. The process isn’t too difficult, but a little practice will help you perfect your technique before working on your final project.

Step 4: Separating the score line of the diy candle holders 

  • Place two correct-sized rubber rings (in the glass cutter kit) on both sides of the score line. 
  • Pour boiling hot water over the score line while rotating the bottle for about 20 seconds. (Do this in the bottom of the sink)
  • Use cold running water over the score line while rotating the bottle for about 20 seconds. 
  • The bottle should come apart with a clean break. 
  • To smooth any rough edges, use wet sandpaper and sand the flat edge of the wine bottle. 
A clear glass bottle with a narrow neck and a cylindrical base rests upright on a wooden table. Two black rubber bands are around the neck and the base. A blurred background shows a window and greenery.
A clear glass container with black rubber rings is being rinsed under a stream of water in a white sink. The sink's metal drain is visible in the bottom left corner. Water droplets are scattered around the sink's surface.
Two transparent glasses with black rims are lying horizontally in a white sink, partially submerged in water. A gloved hand is visible in the top right corner, suggesting the action of washing the glasses.

Step 5: How to put a candle in a wine bottle


After cutting the bottles, I decided to get creative and use both ends to make unique candle holders in three different ways:

  1. Bottle drip candles–The neck of the bottle holds a taper candle perfectly and looks great with drippy wax.
  2. Floating candles- The shorter bottom half creates a beautiful floating candle holder, You can also try floating candles in wine glasses. 
  3. Candle inside wine bottle-The taller bottom section makes a stylish holder for a taper candle, giving it a different look. I used a small piece of Quakehold to hold the taper in place.

I love using these fantastic non-drip taper candles—they burn for about eight hours without making a mess. However, I wanted a drippy wax effect for my candle holders, so I simply melted some candle wax and let it drip around the neck of the bottle tops for a decorative touch.

To add a candle in a bottle, you may need to adjust the bottom of the candle (with a knife)  to fit into the neck of the bottle and use a lighter to soften the wax before inserting. 

Once you have placed the candles in wine bottles, use a second candle and drip wax around the base of the candle to secure the candle.

To enhance the drippy candle look, drip the wax onto the candle holder until you have accomplished the look you want. 

Tip from wendy’s craft room:

You can turn the candle stick holder as you are dripping the wax to get full coverage.

Glass bottles used as candle holders with white wax dripped down their sides, creating a textured, artistic effect. The bottles are placed on a wooden surface, and the scene is softly lit, highlighting the intricate wax patterns.
A white floating candle is lit in a clear glass filled with water. The scene is warm and inviting with blurred greenery and additional candles in the background on a wooden surface.
A lit candle in a glass holder is surrounded by greenery and flowers. Two other candles, with wax dripped down their sides, stand nearby. Soft lighting highlights the arrangement, creating an elegant and warm atmosphere.

flourish
Yield: 2 Candle Holders per Bottle

How to Make DIY Wine Bottle Candle Stick Holders

Five lit taper candles with wax drippings are arranged on a table among green foliage and a floral arrangement. A single floating candle is in a clear glass container in the foreground. The setting is dimly lit, creating a warm ambiance.

Create a stunning DIY wine bottle candle holder with this easy step-by-step tutorial! Upcycle empty bottles into elegant decor for your home.

Materials

  • Empty wine bottles 
  • Ice cold water
  • Hot water 
  • Dripless taper candles
  • Sandpaper (120-200 grit) waterproof 
  • Safety gloves and goggles
  • Sharpie pen 
  • Quakehold
  • Floating candles

Tools

  • Godora Glass Bottle Cutter Kit

Instructions

    Step One- Remove the labels from the wine bottles

    1. Remove label using hot water and a razor blade. If there is any sticky residue remaining on the glass bottles, use Goof Off to remove it. 
    2. Dry the bottle entirely before cutting.
    3. Mark the bottle at the desired height with a Sharpie pen.

    Step Two- How to turn a wine bottle into a candle holder

    1. Adjust the backstop on the glass cutter
    2. Move the bottle to align the marking line with the glass cutting head. 
    3. Adjust the backstop against the bottom of the bottle. 
    4. Remove the entire bottle and tighten the screws. 
    5. Replace the bottle on the cutter. 

    Step three- The cutting process to cut the wine bottle

    1. Adjust the cutting head so it is perpendicular to the bottle. (sightly facing up towards the bottle) 
    2. Tighten the wingnut on the cutting head using the wrench.
    3. Add a drop of canola oil on the blade using the eyedropper in the bottle-cutting kit. 
    4. Rotate the bottle with medium pressure and a steady grip, slowly rolling the bottle towards you. Be sure to always keep the bottom of the bottle firmly against the backstop. Rotate the bottle one full turn. 
    5. Do not go over the score line more than once; make sure it is straight and connected end to end, or you will not get a clean cut.

    Step Four -Separating the scored line 

    1. Place two correct-sized rubber rings (in the glass cutter kit) on both sides of the score line. 
    2. Pour boiling hot water over the score line while rotating the bottle for about 20 seconds. (Do this in the bottom of the sink)
    3. Use cold running water over the score line while rotating the bottle for about 20 seconds. 
    4. The bottle should come apart with a clean break. 
    5. To smooth any rough edges, use wet sandpaper and sand the flat edge of the wine bottle. 

    Step five- how to put a candle in a wine bottle

    1. After cutting the bottles, I decided to get creative and use both ends to make unique candleholders in three different ways:
    2. The neck of the bottle holds a taper candle perfectly.
    3. The shorter bottom half creates a beautiful floating candle holder.
    4. The taller bottom section makes a stylish holder for a taper candle, giving it a different look.
    © Wendy
    Project Type: DIY


    How to Style Wine Bottle Candle Holders


    There are so many different ways you can style these candle holders, but here are a few suggestions. 

    1. Elegant Centerpiece – Arrange wine bottle candle holders of varying heights on a dining table with taper candles, greenery, or flowers.

    A lit candle in a glass holder is surrounded by greenery and flowers. Two other candles, with wax dripped down their sides, stand nearby. Soft lighting highlights the arrangement, creating an elegant and warm atmosphere.

    2. Outdoor Ambiance — Use it on a patio table with citronella candles for a cozy glow.

    Tall candles with wax drippings stand on a wooden table, surrounded by greenery and framed by DIY wine bottle candle holders. A smaller candle flickers in front. The background reveals a darkening sky with clouds, hinting at nightfall, with a glimpse of outdoor greenery and furniture.

    3. Rustic Farmhouse Style – Wrap bottles in twine or burlap and pair with wooden trays, dried flowers, or eucalyptus.

    4. Wedding Decor – Use painted or frosted wine bottle candle holders for romantic lighting, paired with fresh flowers or lace.

    5. Modern Minimalist – Spray-paint bottles matte black, white, or gold and display them on a sleek tray.

    A decorative setting featuring tall, lit white candles on wooden stands in front of an ornate mirror. The reflection shows additional candles and a chandelier. The background includes a floral-patterned wallpaper and a pair of table lamps.
    A lit candle placed inside a clear glass sits on a wooden table amidst other burning candles. In the background, blurred flowers and greenery contribute to a warm, ambient setting.
    Tall white candles are lit and placed in clear glass bottles and holders on a wooden table. The setup is in front of a mirror, doubling the candlelight, with a blurred leafy background visible.
    Lit candles of varying heights are elegantly arranged in wine bottle candle holders on a table, with a centerpiece of white flowers and greenery in a white vase. The soft glow creates a cozy atmosphere in the dimly lit room.
    A lit candle in a glass holder is surrounded by greenery and flowers. Two other candles, with wax dripped down their sides, stand nearby. Soft lighting highlights the arrangement, creating an elegant and warm atmosphere.
    Four lit taper candles in textured holders are arranged on a table, surrounded by greenery and white flowers. The background features a dimly lit room with patterned wallpaper and antique furniture.


    Common questions you may have about this project

    Are wine bottles safe for candles? 

    Yes, wine bottles can be safe for candles with proper precautions. Use snug-fitting taper candles or ensure good airflow for tea lights or pillar candles inside cut bottles. Avoid overheating, as glass can crack under extreme heat. For safety, place bottles on a stable surface and consider LED candles as a flameless alternative. Continuously monitor the flame while in use.

    What are some innovative ideas to decorate old glass bottles? 

    You can decorate old glass bottles and paint them on the interior or exterior with metallic paint for a mercury glass look. 

    Add twine or rope to old bottles for a Nautical party. 

    Decoupage a bottle with napkins and Mod Podge. 

    Use sealing wax and put a monogram on the front of a bottle. 

    Can you reuse wine corks for crafts? 

    Don’t throw the corks away! You can also make so many fun crafts with the corks. Here are just a few ideas for you. 

    A heart-shaped decoration made of sliced branches in shades of brown and pink dangles from a twine loop. It's displayed on a wooden shelf, next to a rustic DIY wine bottle candle holder, surrounded by plants and natural materials like seed pods and dried leaves.
    • Make a Heart Wreath for Valentine’s Day ❤️
      Create a charming heart-shaped wreath using wine corks. Arrange them in a layered pattern by color and glue them together to form a heart. This makes a perfect Valentine’s Day decoration for your door or wall.
    • Craft a Cork Christmas Tree 🎄
      Stack wine corks in a pyramid shape and secure them with hot glue to form a mini Christmas tree. Embellish with tiny ornaments, beads, or glitter for a festive touch. You can even insert small fairy lights between the corks for a magical glow.
    • DIY Wine Cork Trivet 🍷
      Cork trivets are both functional and stylish! Arrange wine corks in a circular or square pattern, glue them to a backing (such as corkboard or wood), and seal with a heat-resistant finish. These make great gifts or kitchen decor pieces.
    • Wine Cork Coasters ☕
      Slice wine corks into even rounds and glue them onto a corkboard or wood base to make unique coasters. You can arrange them in hexagonal, circular, or square patterns to match your aesthetic.
    A rustic sideboard with labeled drawers showcases a tray featuring two decorative Christmas trees adorned with red beads, a DIY wine bottle candle holder, and four wine glasses. Above, a wall lamp and thermostat are mounted on the shiplap wall.
    The Ponds FarmHouse
    flourish

    Other DIY Tutorials from WM Design House

    If you love these glass bottle candle holders, you might also enjoy some of my other favorite DIY projects:

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    How to Upcycle a Picket Fence into a Creative Easel

    Click Here
    Carrot-dyed DIY Fabric rag wreath hanging on a door.

    How to Make an Easy Easter DIY Carrot Wreath

    Click Here
    Living room with spring decor, throw pillows, plants, etc.

    The 10 Best Spring Decorating Ideas to Freshen Up Your Home

    Click Here

    I hope this tutorial has inspired you to upcycle your wine bottles into beautiful candle holders! With a little creativity and practice, you can turn ordinary glass into stunning decor. Thanks for stopping by—happy crafting, and see you next time! ✨🍷

    Be sure to click the links below to see the other bloggers’ posts.

    signature
    A collage image with a pink banner showcases how to craft a Wine Bottle Candle Holder. Featuring photos of flowers and candles, a close-up of a lit candle, and three wine bottles, this tutorial is from wmdesignhouse.com.

    Did you make this craft?

    We would love to see what you have created, so mention us @wmdesignhouse or tag us using #wmdesignhouse so we can see your creations!

    More about me!

    Wendy

    Hello, I’m Wendy – a dedicated homemaker with a deep passion for decorating, gardening, cooking, and crafting. I find joy in harmonizing beautiful elements to fashion a space that is both comfortable and inspiring. I will help you create a beautiful home, one project at a time.

    Connect with Wendy

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    8 Comments

    1. Wendy, I need a bottle cutter in my life! There is something about the drippy wax that makes the wine bottle candle holders just p-e-r-f-e-c-t! Beautiful, my friend!

      Reply

    2. Wendy, These are so good! They remind me of all my favorite time period movies! Love!

      Reply

    4. I just love the dripped candle wax on the bottles. It so fun and unexpectedly lovely. I may just steal that idea!

      Reply

    5. Absolutely stunning! The drippy wax makes all the difference!!! Well done my friend!

      Reply

    6. This is such a beautiful project, Wendy! Thanks for the detailed instructions for cutting the wine bottles! I didn’t know such a tool existed! Love this creative idea!

      Reply

    7. Hi Wendy! This looks like such a fun project! I’ve always wondered how people cut wine bottles, and now I know! The tool you used is so handy! I bet it was so fun dripping the wax down the bottles. They look amazing! Pinning now so I can try this sometime!

      Reply

    8. These are so pretty, Wendy! I love that these candles can be used to help celebrate Valentine’s Day and for so many other special occasions throughout the year. They would be so pretty at a white party in the summer too. Thanks for the step by step. I’ve always wanted to try this. Sending you hugs and continued prayers for those affected by the fires, CoCo

      Reply

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