I kept seeing painted taper candles with ribbons and gold stars in décor shoppes — and of course, I wanted some for my own. One box of candles later… well, you can guess how that ended. 🕯️✨ (Photo from a decor shoppe below.)
Painting candles is one of those simple, satisfying projects that looks high-end but takes just a few minutes. Whether you’re making them for your own holiday table or as a hostess gift, this is an easy way to add a personal touch that feels thoughtful and handmade.
Materials You’ll Need
(Links to the supplies I used here)
Box of plain taper candles (white, cream, or any color you love)
Candle paints (metallic or classic shades work beautifully)
Paper towels
Ribbon (optional, for finishing touches)
Small box or wrap for gifting
Crinkle Paper
Designs I Tried
⭐ Gold Stars
Gold stars are trending on taper candles this season — I’ve spotted them in several home décor shoppes. They add a little sparkle that feels festive but still timeless.
🎀 Red Bows
These are a total Pottery Barn dupe — the original version has been popping up all over social media. The look is simple to recreate with candle paint, and it brings that cheerful, classic holiday charm to your table.
🍬 Candy Canes
Because sometimes you just want to paint something fun. The red-and-white stripes instantly feel festive and pair beautifully with greenery or metallics for an easy holiday accent.
Tips for Applying Candle Paint
A few small tricks make a big difference:
01. Hold the pen just above the surface.
If you rest the pen directly on the candle, it can leave a visible line from the point. Hover slightly as you draw for a clean, even finish.
02. Apply gentle pressure.
Start with no pressure on the tube, then add a small amount of pressure as you move the pen along the candle. This gives you more control and smoother lines.
03. If you need to start over, no problem.
Simply wipe the wet wax paint off with a paper towel and try again.
04. Let it dry fully before layering colors.
Once dry, you can add metallic accents or another color on top without smudging.
Finishing Touches
Once your candles are dry, bundle a few together with ribbon or twine for an easy hostess gift. Or, display them on your mantel, dining table, or entryway for an instant holiday update.
Simple. Elegant. Done.
