DIY · été
Concrete candle holders, raw and warm decor
Reference tutorialCastoramaSee the tutorial →Raw concrete is everywhere in decor, and these candle holders are the simplest DIY version: two cups, a little concrete, and you get raw, chic objects for a few euros. On each diagram below, the highlighted zone shows the current step.
What you need
- Fine concrete or cement mix (~€5)
- 2 plastic cups/containers per holder (one large, one small)
- A tealight candle (for sizing)
- Oil + brush (easy release)
- Sandpaper, bowl and stick to mix
Step by step
Prepare the moulds
For each holder, take a large cup (outer mould) and a small one (to hollow the candle cavity). Oil the inside of the large and the outside of the small for easy release. Check a tealight fits the small one.
Pour the concrete
Mix concrete with water to a thick smooth paste. Pour into the large cup, then push the small one into the centre (weigh it down with stones so it doesn't float up). Tap to release bubbles, let it cure 24-48 h.
Unmould
Once the concrete is fully hard, remove the small cup from the centre then free the large one (cut it if needed). You get a cylindrical holder with its cavity. Handle with care until it's fully dry.
Sand and light
Sand the rim and base with fine grit to soften and stabilise the holder. Dust off, slip a tealight into the cavity, and it's done. In a group of three different heights, the effect is gorgeous.
The detail that changes everything
For clean concrete, mix it really smooth (not too much water) and tap to release bubbles: that's what avoids surface holes. And a light final sanding gives that soft matte chic finish.
Where does it look best?
On a dining table, a mantel or a shelf, in a trio of different heights. Grey concrete pairs with wood, linen and natural tones. You can tint or wax the concrete to vary it.
Step-by-step inspired by a tutorial spotted on YouTube. Wear gloves, fresh cement is irritating.
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