Turn Empty Wine Bottles Into Cozy Candles

There’s something about autumn that makes us want to light candles, sip wine, and get crafty. 🍂 After all, the days are shorter, the nights are cooler, and creating a little extra glow at home feels just right.

Here’s a project that combines all three: transforming your empty Willowcroft wine bottles into homemade candles. Not only do they make beautiful home décor, but they also double as thoughtful, handmade gifts for the holidays. Let’s get started!

1. Empty wine bottles (cleaned and label-free)
2. A glass bottle cutter
3. Soy wax (a clean-burning, non-toxic option)
4. Candle wicks (wooden or cotton)
5. Essential oils (optional for fragrance—think cinnamon, clove, or vanilla for fall vibes)
6. A double boiler or melting pot
7. Ice and boiling water (for cutting bottles)
8. Paint, twine, or decorative extras (optional for finishing touches)

First things first: enjoy the wine (that’s the best part!). Once your bottle is empty, give it a rinse in warm, soapy water. You can leave labels on for a branded look, or remove them if you prefer a clean canvas for decorating. Make sure the bottle is dry before moving on.

This step feels a little magical. Use your glass cutter to score a line around the bottle at your desired candle height. Then:

• Pour boiling water over the scored line.
• Immediately dunk the bottle into ice water.
• Repeat until the bottle separates cleanly.
• Voilà! You now have a glass vessel ready for wax. (Tip: Sand the edges if they feel sharp.)

In a double boiler, gently melt your soy wax until smooth. If you want to add fragrance, stir in a few drops of essential oil once the wax has cooled slightly—about 7–8% of your wax weight. Fall scents like pumpkin spice, cedarwood, or orange are always a hit.

Place your wick in the center of the bottle base. Secure it with a wick holder or even a pencil laid across the top. Slowly pour in the melted wax, leaving about half an inch of space at the top. Keep the wick centered as the wax sets.

Let the wax cool for several hours. Once hardened, trim your wick to about ¼ inch. Then comes the fun part—decorating! Wrap the outside with twine, add dried flowers, or paint the glass with metallics for a festive glow.

That’s it! You’ve just created a cozy wine bottle candle, perfect for your fall evenings. These candles not only add warmth to your home but also make sustainable use of those beautiful Willowcroft bottles.

**Pro tip: Make a few extras to give as hostess gifts for Thanksgiving or holiday parties. Friends and family will love the personal touch!

✨ Whether you’re sipping on a glass of Willowcroft Riesling while you craft or gifting your candles to loved ones, this DIY project is a beautiful way to blend creativity, sustainability, and the spirit of fall.