Tutorial: Faux Gilded Votive Cups (with Sharpie!)

What could be more perfect for the holidays than something that sparkles and glows?  These faux gilded candleholders couldn't be easier to make and require simple supplies, but look so fancy when they are finished!



What You'll Need: glass cups (anything that will fit a votive or tea light candle will work - from thrifted cups to old jars.  My frosted cups were once cheap Glade candles from Target; after we used them up, I removed the old wax (stick them in the freezer over night and it pops right out!) and gave them a quick scrub to get rid of soot.  Good as new!); a doily (I used two for these - one small and one large); spray adhesive or water-soluble craft glue; Sharpie metallic paint pens.


Step 1: Spray a light coating of adhesive onto the back of the doily and stick it onto your cup.  Or, if you're like me, discover that your spray adhesive has adhered its nozzle shut, be too afraid of getting adhesive in your eyes to try to fix it, and use a glue stick instead.  Whatever works!

Make sure to press all the little pieces down firmly!


Step 2: Following the directions from my Sharpie Stencil Technique, use the paint pen to color all the open spaces of your doily.


Step 3: If you'd like, trace a line around the outside edge of the doily.

Step 4: Wait a minute for everything to dry a bit, then peel the doily off of the cup (my favorite part!).  Don't worry if some pieces are stubborn.

Step 5: Let the cup sit for a few hours to set the paint.  When it has throughly dried, run it under warm water and rub gently to remove any excess glue and paper.

Step 6: Place a votive or tea light inside and enjoy the glow!



These look so pretty as part of a tablescape, and they make perfect holiday hostess gifts.  Enjoy!