I love a project like this because it looks collected and charming, but it’s honestly so simple you can pull it together in one evening after work. These autumn candle holders are made by gluing dollar store glass votive cups onto thrifted brass drawer pulls, and the combination gives you that warm, vintage fall-table look without spending much at all.
If you decorate seasonally but don’t want to store a ton of bulky pieces, this is exactly the kind of small project I reach for. I’ve made versions of these for a Thanksgiving table, a cozy weeknight dinner, and even just to make the kitchen island feel a little more finished in October. They’re perfect for anyone who likes easy, budget-friendly décor that still feels thoughtful.
Materials
2 clear glass votive cups, about 2 to 2.5 inches tall
Instructions
1. Wash the glass votive cups with warm soapy water, then dry them fully. Wipe the bottoms of the cups and the tops of the brass drawer pulls with rubbing alcohol so the glue bonds well.
2. Set each drawer pull upside down so the broad decorative side becomes the base. Check that it sits level on the table, and if it wobbles, choose a flatter side or adjust with a felt pad later.
3. Apply a small ring of clear adhesive to the top center of one brass drawer pull. Use enough to cover the contact area, but not so much that it will squeeze far out from under the glass.
4. Center one glass votive cup over the glued area and press it down gently for a few seconds. Repeat with the second votive cup and drawer pull.
5. Look at the holders from all sides and nudge the cups into alignment before the glue begins to set. Wipe away any visible excess adhesive with a cotton pad right away.
6. Let the candle holders cure according to the adhesive directions, usually 12 to 24 hours, without moving them. This is the hardest part for me because I always want instant results, but the full cure makes them feel much sturdier.
7. Add felt pads to the underside of each brass base to protect your table and help level the holders if needed. Use two pads per holder, or more if your hardware has an uneven shape.
8. Place a tea light inside each glass cup and style them on a tray, runner, or fall table setting with a few faux leaves and berry stems around the bases. Keep the decorations outside the cup so the candle area stays clear and safe.
Variations & Tips
Use LED candles: If you’re decorating a buffet, entry table, or anywhere kids and pets might pass by, LED tea lights are my favorite choice. You still get the glow without worrying about an open flame.
Mix your brass finishes: Don’t stress if the drawer pulls don’t match perfectly. A slightly varied thrifted brass look actually makes the finished set feel more collected and interesting.
Try a deeper fall look: If you want a moodier table, tuck in darker faux accents like rust leaves, wheat stems, or deep burgundy berries around the holders. I love this especially for Thanksgiving dinner.
Check the top surface first: The easiest assembly happens when the drawer pull has a top area wide enough for the votive cup to sit securely. If the hardware is very curved or narrow, save it for another project and choose flatter pieces.
Make a matched centerpiece: These look especially pretty grouped in pairs or trios down the center of a table. When I’m short on time, repeating one simple project like this always makes the whole table feel pulled together.
Protect delicate finishes: If your thrifted brass has flaking lacquer or sharp edges, give it a gentle cleaning and inspect it before using. The felt pads underneath help prevent scratches on wood tables and make the holders feel more finished.