I seem to do a lot with lighting, particularly candles, but candlelight can set the mood for a party or intimate gathering. If you don’t have time to clean, just turn down the lamps, light the candles and no one will be the wiser. Besides, you look better in candlelight than any other light source!

A few years ago I showed you how to update and personalize fabric shades for lamps. View that article here!

I found frosted and pressed glass shades that were extras from ceiling light fixtures. Set them right side up or upside down over small votive candles. The light really sparkles through the design on the shade.

Be sure to use a glass votive cup for safety and to protect your table or tablecloth.

You can line them up on the center or your table or make your display more interesting by using books to create height.

You can try colored candles for a really dramatic look or, like below, a red votive cup.

I found sets of 3 and 4 shades, but a grouping of different individual styles and heights would be just as interesting, if not more.

Never leave candles unattended!

Email me at askmerri@goodwillsew.com or post a comment on our Facebook page.

Save this article (PDF)