From Onion Jar to Enchanted Candle Holder ✨

For the second part of my AECP Level 2 Final Challenge, I had to create an altered/upcycled project. I transformed an empty onion confit jar into a decorative candle holder, giving it new life while experimenting with stamping, stenciling, and texture.

Step 1: Preparing the Vellum

I started by measuring and cutting a piece of vellum to wrap around the jar. I left extra margin at the bottom to secure the panel. I marked the central area where my design would be placed.

 

Step 2: Stamping and Embossing

I stamped the small branch from the Magnificent Branches Stamp Set in the center and heat-embossed it with shimmer gold embossing powder for a subtle, elegant shine.

Step 3: Stenciling and Masking

Next, I stenciled the branch, leaves, and flowers. I used shades of purple for the flowers and Forest Trail for the leaves. To create layering, I stamped and masked the design twice along the vellum panel.

Step 4: Adding Texture

I brought in some texture using the Luminous Diamond Rings stencil. I spread Pearl Shimmer Relief Paste across the central area, repeated once to cover the design, and sprinkled embossing powder randomly for extra sparkle. To speed up drying, I used a heat gun, which also caused the shimmer paste to bubble slightly, creating a lovely tactile effect.

 

Step 5: Wrapping the Jar

I carefully adhered the vellum along one side of the jar using double-sided tape, then wrapped it around the opening, gluing as I went. The extra margin at the bottom was also secured with tape.

 

Step 6: Final Touches

To finish, I added some twine around the jar opening and base for a rustic, handmade feel. The result is a unique, upcycled candle holder that combines shimmer, stamping, stenciling, and texture — a perfect decorative piece and a functional upcycled item.

  

When lit, the candle softly illuminates the vellum panel, making the gold embossed branches shimmer and the pear shimmer paste glow subtly. The light highlights the bubbled texture of the paste and casts a delicate pattern through the stenciled leaves and flowers. The purple and green tones of the design take on a warm, ethereal look, while the twine adds a cozy, rustic charm. Overall, it creates a magical, warm ambiance — perfect for a relaxing evening or as a charming decorative accent.

 

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