How to make DIY wooden candlesticks
Got a chainsaw and 20 minutes to spare? Whip up some festive outdoor magic with these DIY wooden Christmas candlestick decorations.
12.07.2023
Christmas candles: enjoy the warm glow of traditional decorations
We love making the home a cosy space during the Christmas period, with warm cinnamon aromas and a dazzling Christmas tree creating a snug atmosphere and a comforting haven from the world. The glow of an Advent candle adds a special touch. Why not spread some of that festive ambience outdoors too? DIY outdoor Christmas decorations are a great way to celebrate the season and share some magic with anyone who passes by.
We’ve put together instructions to make a simple and striking set of rustic wooden candlesticks as a charming and long-lasting alternative to the usual outdoor Christmas decorations. The best thing is that it's a simple design and you only need a couple of different items: to make your own wooden candlesticks, you’ll need just four logs and a chainsaw.
DIY wooden candlesticks: materials and tools
Select four logs of different lengths (around 15-20 cm in diameter) and choose whatever type of wood you like: any softwood or hardwood will work, though soft coniferous timber is easier to saw than hardwood.
The right chainsaw
To make crafting your outdoor wooden Christmas decorations fast and fun, you need the right power tool. STIHL offers a range of compact chainsaws for DIY projects.
Committed to your safety: protective equipment
Don't forget that you should always wear your personal protective equipment when working with your chainsaw. This includes a cut protection trousers, safety boots, safety glasses, a face shield, gloves and a helmet if there is a risk of falling objects. You will also need ear protection if the noise of your chainsaw is above a certain level, although most of our cordless chainsaws are quiet enough that you don't need ear defenders. More details are available in the instruction manuals for your product.
Before using your chainsaw for the first time, fully familiarise yourself with the power tool and ensure it is in flawless condition before each use. On request, your STIHL dealer will be happy to prepare your power tool for its first job, and will also advise you on models and sizes of protective clothing that you can try on at your leisure. Please remember that personal protective equipment is no substitute for safe working techniques.
How to make your DIY wooden Christmas candlesticks
Let’s get to work! Carving four wooden candlesticks for a festive outdoor display won’t take long.
Secure a log so that it doesn’t roll away; a tree stump with a V-shaped notch makes a great saw horse.
Decide how tall you want the flame on your candlestick to be. Mark the base of the flame with a cut all around the log. Cut about a quarter of the way into the wood – the centre part will be the wick.
Slowly carve out the flame for your DIY wooden candlestick. Start by cutting a wedge to begin forming the tip of the flame, then guide the chainsaw down towards the line that you have already marked. Keep turning and sawing until the shape of the flame becomes clear.
Decide whether the flame should be rounded or more angular, with a natural finish or painted – let your creative juices flow!
Repeat all the steps with the other logs. Using a range of sizes for your wooden candlesticks adds interest to the display.
More ideas for outdoor wooden Christmas decorations
Your DIY wooden candlesticks are ready to add a festive mood to your garden.
Do you think they need some company? We have lots more ideas for DIY winter decorations for your garden and patio.
More DIY decoration projects
Summary: How to Make DIY wooden candlesticks
- For this wooden candlestick project, you’ll need four logs that stand up and a chainsaw. Any kind of softwood or hardwood is suitable for outdoor Christmas decorations, but remember that softwood with a low resin content is easier to carve with a chainsaw.
- When working with a chainsaw, always wear personal protective equipment as per the operating instructions.
- Use your chainsaw to mark the base of the flame all around the log.
- Slowly carve out the flame shape until its outline becomes clear.
