If you love a home decor piece that does more than one job, this clever DIY project is about to become your new favorite. A simple IKEA candle holder found by DIYer (@tinalemac) gets a cottagecore-inspired makeover with just a little creativity, transforming it into a whimsical flower vase that feels like it belongs in a cozy countryside cottage.
This candle-flower hack proves that everyday items can have a second life. Instead of using your candle holder only for candles, turn it into a beautiful two-in-one piece that displays fresh blooms and adds handmade charm to your space.
SNÖDUVA candlestick, $29.99 at IKEA
The star of this DIY is the SNÖDUVA candlestick from IKEA, which already has a sculptural shape that works beautifully as a decorative piece. With a few simple additions, the candle holder is transformed into a vase with soft, organic details inspired by cottagecore style.
The finished look feels vintage, romantic, and handcrafted, which is perfect for displaying small bouquets on a kitchen table, bedside table, or shelf.
What You Need for This Candle Flower Hack
To recreate this DIY cottagecore vase, you’ll need:
- IKEA SNÖDUVA candle holder
- Air-dry clay
- Small test tubes
- Museum wax
- Paint
- Optional sandpaper
The air-dry clay is what gives this candle holder its floral makeover. By molding clay around the base and adding petal details along the top, you can create a flower-inspired design that makes the piece look like a handmade ceramic vase.
How to Turn a Candle Holder Into a Flower Vase
Start by adding air-dry clay around the candle holder, shaping it into a textured, organic design. Create small petals around the top edge to mimic the look of blooming flowers and add dimension to the piece.
Once the clay has fully dried, smooth any rough edges with sandpaper if needed. You can leave the natural clay finish for a minimalist look or paint the holder in soft, muted tones to enhance the cottagecore aesthetic.
Next, add small test tubes to the top of the candle holder. These will act as mini vases, giving flower stems a place to sit while keeping the candle holder’s original structure intact. Use museum wax to secure the test tubes in place and prevent them from shifting.
Once everything is assembled, fill the test tubes with water and add your favorite fresh flowers.