There’s something so satisfying about turning a couple of plain dollar store glass vases into warm, textured harvest candle holders that look like they came from a little fall boutique. This project is one of my favorite kinds of decorating: inexpensive, fast, and forgiving, but with a finished look that feels full and special once the candles are glowing. The burlap softens the glass, the twine adds that cozy farmhouse layer, and a few simple craft-drawer accents make the whole thing feel thoughtfully finished.
I especially love this project for a kitchen table, entry console, or Thanksgiving centerpiece because it’s easy enough to make in an afternoon, even if you’re squeezing it in between dinner prep and everything else. If you’ve got a few clear cylindrical vases and want a harvest look without a lot of fuss, this one is very doable and gives a big payoff.
Materials
Instructions
1. Clean and dry each glass vase so the burlap will sit flat and the glue will hold well. If there are price stickers, remove them completely and wipe away any residue.
2. Measure the height around the middle section of one vase and cut 3 burlap rectangles to fit, each about 1 inch shorter than the vase height and long enough to wrap around with a 1-inch overlap. Keeping the burlap slightly shorter than the glass leaves a clean border at the top and bottom.
3. Run a vertical line of hot glue down the back of one vase and press the short end of a burlap rectangle into place. Wrap the burlap snugly around the vase, add another line of glue at the overlap, and press firmly so the seam stays neat.
4. Repeat with the other two vases, keeping the seams lined up at the back. If any burlap threads stick out, trim them lightly instead of pulling, which keeps the edges tidy.
5. Cut 3 lengths of twine about 36 inches each and wrap one piece around the center of each burlap-covered vase 5 to 7 times. Tie the twine into a tight knot or small bow at the front, slightly off-center, and secure the knot with a dot of hot glue.
6. Build a decorative cluster on each vase by gluing 2 or 3 small artificial fall leaves under the twine knot or bow, then layering 2 or 3 wooden buttons on top. This is the step that makes them look finished instead of plain, so don’t be shy about giving each vase a full little accent cluster.
7. Check each holder from all sides and add a little extra glue anywhere the burlap lifts or the embellishments need support. If you want a fuller harvest look, tuck one extra leaf under the twine near the side of the cluster.
8. Place one LED pillar candle inside each vase and fluff the leaf accents so they sit outward and show well. Group the three candle holders together, tallest-looking one in back or center, for the most generous centerpiece effect.
Variations & Tips
For a fuller centerpiece: Make 5 holders instead of 3 and vary the vase heights slightly if you can find them. I love mixing a couple shorter cylinders in front with taller ones in back so the whole arrangement feels layered and abundant.
For picky decorators: If your family likes fall decor but not anything too rustic, use fewer leaves and more wooden buttons for a cleaner look. You still get the harvest warmth without making it feel overly themed.
Ribbon option: If you have a narrow cream or burnt orange ribbon in your craft drawer, tie it over the twine knot for a softer finish. I’d keep it small so it adds polish without hiding the burlap texture.
Safer candle choice: I strongly recommend LED candles for these since burlap and twine are flammable materials. You still get that cozy glow, especially at dinner, without worrying about an open flame.
Make it more polished: Brush off loose burlap fibers before styling the finished holders on your table. That quick little cleanup makes them look much more intentional, and it’s the kind of finishing touch I always appreciate once everything is set out for guests.
Color swap: For late fall or Thanksgiving, use deeper leaves in rust, mustard, and brown. For early autumn, mix in a few muted green leaves so the holders bridge that summer-to-fall transition beautifully.
Gift idea: These make sweet host gifts when paired with a set of battery candles or a small bag of wrapped caramels. I’ve found handmade pieces like this feel extra special because they’re useful right away and easy to set out the same day.