Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re anything like me, you probably want to add a little romantic touch to your home. But let’s be real—there’s not much time left for elaborate DIY projects. That’s why I decided to try out an old hack I’d been meaning to test for ages: decorating candles using napkins.
I had a few plain white candles lying around (because honestly, candles are never a bad idea), and I happened to have some Valentine’s-themed napkins with cute hearts. It felt like the perfect quick and easy project to create a cozy, love-filled vibe at home. And let me tell you—this hack did not disappoint. It’s simple, takes just a few minutes, and the result is way fancier than the effort required. Bonus: If you’re planning a romantic dinner, these candles will totally set the mood!
What You’ll Need
- White candles – Stick with white or light-colored ones. Dark candles might bleed through the napkin, ruining the design.
- Patterned napkins – Make sure they’re the thick, three-ply kind. We only need the top printed layer.
- Parchment paper – This helps secure the napkin while heating.
- Clear tape (or painter’s tape) – To secure the parchment paper tightly.
- An iron – A hairdryer might work, but an iron gives the best results.
And that’s it! No glue, no mess, just some heat and a bit of patience.
Step-by-step Guide
Start by carefully peeling away the top layer of the napkin (the one with the design). You don’t need the other layers. Cut the napkin to roughly match the size of your candle—trust me, it's way easier to do this now than to trim it after.
Place the napkin around the candle with the pattern facing outward. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but try to line it up neatly.
Wrap the entire candle with parchment paper, covering the napkin completely. Pull it tight and use tape to secure it. Now for the fun part! Take your iron (on low heat, no steam) and gently press it against the parchment paper. Move it around evenly—after a few seconds, you’ll see the wax melting just enough to absorb the napkin. Keep going until the entire surface looks sealed.
Once the napkin has fused with the candle, carefully remove the parchment paper. You should now have a smooth, printed candle that looks like you bought it that way! If any napkin edges are sticking out, just go over them again with a bit of heat or trim them with scissors. And that’s it—your custom Valentine’s candle is ready!.
Bonus: Nail Polish Heart Candles
If you want an even quicker and easier idea, try decorating small candles with red nail polish.
Use the nail polish brush to make two short strokes in a V-shape—this forms a heart. Repeat around the candle for a cute, handmade look. Let dry completely before lighting the candle.
This method is perfect for tealights or votive candles!.
Final Thoughts
This DIY is so easy and looks amazing! It takes just minutes, but the results are beautiful, cozy, and totally perfect for Valentine’s Day. Sure, they might not look exactly like expensive store-bought candles, but for a quick and budget-friendly project, they’re a win.
These candles are perfect for setting the mood at a romantic dinner—just dim the lights, add a few of these, and you’ve got instant ambiance. They also make thoughtful handmade gifts for friends, family, or anyone who appreciates a cozy, personalized touch. Plus, they’re so easy to customize with different napkin designs, making them great for other occasions too!