Make DIY sunflower napkin decoupage candles using Dollar Tree flameless candles, Mod Podge, and twine for easy late-summer decor.
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DIY Sunflower Napkin Decoupage Candles
I originally planned to use wax pillar candles, but Dollar Tree didn’t have any. Instead, I grabbed two battery-operated candles and decorated them with the cutest sunflower paper napkins.
This is a quick and inexpensive way to customize plain flameless candles for late summer or early fall. Use sunflower napkins like I did, or choose any design that matches your decor.
Video Tutorial: Sunflower Napkin Decoupage Candles
Watch this quick video to see how this craft came together:
Sunflower Napkin Decoupage Candles
Decorate Dollar Tree flameless candles with sunflower napkins, Mod Podge, and rustic twine for an easy seasonal craft.
Materials
- Battery-operated pillar candles
- Sunflower paper napkins
- Matte Mod Podge
- Plastic wrap
- Twine
Tools
Instructions
- Watch the Video Tutorial. Before you begin, watch the full video tutorial to see exactly how the project comes together.
- Prepare the Candles. Remove all plastic packaging from the battery-operated candles.
- Cut the Napkin Designs. Cut small sections from the sunflower napkin. I used partial flowers so they appeared to grow into the design from the top or bottom of each candle. Separate the napkin layers and keep only the printed top layer.
- Decoupage the Napkins. Brush a thin layer of Mod Podge onto the candle. Position the napkin piece and gently smooth it with your fingertips and a piece of plastic wrap. Seal the napkin with another thin coat of Mod Podge.
- Remove the Excess. Let the candles dry completely. If a napkin overlaps the wavy top edge, gently sand away the excess using downward strokes.
- Add Twine. Wrap twine around the bottom of each candle three times and finish it with a simple bow.
Tips for Positioning the Napkins
You don’t need to use the entire sunflower image. Partial flowers create the look of blooms peeking onto the candle and make the finished design feel less like a solid band.
For flowers placed along the bottom, cut one side of the napkin in a straight line and align it with the candle’s bottom edge.
At the top, allow the napkin to extend over the candle’s uneven rim. You can easily remove the excess once the Mod Podge dries.
Can You Decoupage Real Wax Candles?
There is a separate technique for applying paper napkins to real wax candles using parchment paper and gentle heat. However, the Mod Podge method in this tutorial is intended only for battery-operated candles.
Easy Dollar Store Sunflower Decor
The little twine bows were all these candles needed to finish them off. They add a bit of rustic texture without covering the pretty sunflower designs.
Display your finished flameless candles on a mantel, shelf, or fall table. They would also look adorable glowing inside or next to an upcycled glass jar lantern.