Old glass votives are one of those little things I hate to throw away, and this is such a sweet way to give them a fresh fall look with just two main items. For this project, I wrap dollar store faux berry picks around plain glass votive holders to make simple autumn candle rings that add color and texture to a table without a lot of cost or fuss.
I especially love this kind of project when I want the table to feel a little more special for dinner, dessert, or a weekend gathering, but I do not want to spend an afternoon on a complicated centerpiece. If you are decorating on a budget, setting a cozy fall table, or just looking for an easy seasonal craft, this one is very doable.
Materials
2 clear glass votive holders, about 2 1/2 to 3 inches wide
Instructions
1. Set each glass votive on the table and hold one faux berry pick around the outside to check the fit. Choose the fullest section of the pick and note where the stem needs to bend or overlap.
2. Bend the faux berry pick into a loose ring shape around the votive, keeping the berries facing outward. Wrap slowly so the stem follows the glass without snapping the branches off.
3. Overlap the end of the pick with the beginning point at the back or side of the votive. If the stem is too long, trim off the extra with wire cutters, leaving enough to secure the ring.
4. Use one 6-inch piece of floral wire to twist the overlapped stems together snugly. Tuck the twisted wire ends inward or behind the berries so they do not show from the front.
5. Slide the finished berry ring off the votive if needed and reshape it with your hands until it sits evenly and looks balanced. Fluff the berry sprigs so there are no bare spots.
6. Place the berry ring back around the base or middle of the glass votive, depending on the look you like best. Set a tealight inside the holder and repeat with the second votive.
Variations & Tips
For picky decorators: If bright fall colors feel too busy, look for berry picks in just one shade like deep red, rust, or cream for a calmer table.
Safer candle option: I like battery tealights best for this project, especially if the votives are going on a busy family table where little hands might reach across.
Add more texture: Tuck in a small snippet of faux leaves, wheat, or tiny pinecones before you twist the wire closed if you want a fuller candle ring.
Make them match your dinner table: Use berry picks that pick up the colors already in your napkins, runner, or dishes. That little bit of coordination makes even a simple meal feel thoughtfully set.
Keep the front pretty: Always place the wire join at the back side of the votive. I usually turn the neatest berry cluster toward the front where everyone will see it first.
Use what you have: This also works with old jelly jars, short tumblers, or slightly larger candle holders; you may just need an extra half pick or a bit more wire for a wider glass.