CANDLES

Adding some personal touches to create a one-of-a-kind gift can be really fun.  Start by being frugal and stop in to your local Dollar Tree to pick up some basic glass candle holders.   Then, let your imagination and creativity be your guide as you decorate the holder and add just the right complimentary touches with the "filler", candle and trim to complete the package.   If you've been following my blog you'll know that I have many of these glass candle holders from my daughter's wedding.  So, I plan to capitalize on the supply I have and make some gifts.  I also plan to use a couple as a "thank you" to the florist and baker who did such an awesome job at the wedding!

I'm always watching for sales or using coupons to Hobby Lobby, Michael's or JoAnn Fabrics  to keep the cost reasonable for the candles and other trim work.  At one point I was making my own candles, but I got tired of the clean up.  But.....I may have to pull my supplies back out. 

 I have fun deciding which fillers to use; here are some that I've played around with so far:

• Rice and Beans                
• Sand
• Miniature shells
• Silk Flowers
• Stones
• Split Peas
•  Marbles

In addition to making gifts that compliment someone's home decor, you can have a blast with different themes.  I started playing around with Fall and Christmas candle holders.  I just couldn't muster the energy to dig through my holiday decoration bins for the fake snow to use as a filler, but as soon as I pull it out, I'm going swap out the sand.  Have Fun....I sure did!