
Mod Podge is a popular crafting technique that can be used to decorate candles. The process involves using Mod Podge glue to attach colourful napkins, scrapbook paper, or photos to the outside of a candle, creating a personalised and stylish design. This simple and affordable craft can transform plain, cheap candles into colourful centrepieces or thoughtful gifts. While the process can be messy, it is a fun way to get creative and add a unique touch to your home decor or present something special to a loved one.
Modge Podging a Photo on a Candle
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Required Materials | Glass-enclosed candles, photos/napkins, scissors, Mod Podge, paintbrush, string, acrylic paint, rubbing alcohol, tape |
| Preparation | Remove labels from candles by soaking in water for a few minutes. Separate the printed ply of the napkin from the blank ply. |
| Modge Podging Process | Cut the napkin/photo to size, leaving a little extra. Paint a strip of Mod Podge along the edge of the napkin/photo. Press the napkin/photo onto the candle, smoothing out any bumps. Cover with a light coat of Mod Podge and let dry. |
| Additional Tips | Use rubbing alcohol to clean the candle surface before painting. Use tape to create perfect stripes when painting. |
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What You'll Learn
- Supplies needed: glass-enclosed candles, cocktail napkins, Mod Podge, brush, and scissors
- Prepare the candle: remove labels, separate printed ply of the napkin, and cut the napkin to size
- Apply Mod Podge: paint a strip of Mod Podge along the napkin's edge and press it onto the candle
- Smooth and secure: smooth out the napkin, trim excess, and cover with a light coat of Mod Podge to secure
- Additional tips: use spray Mod Podge for ease, or paint the candle with acrylic paint for a different look

Supplies needed: glass-enclosed candles, cocktail napkins, Mod Podge, brush, and scissors
To Mod Podge a photo on a candle, you will need a few supplies. The first step is to source your glass-enclosed candles. These can be simple, cheap candles from a dollar store. Next, you will need some cocktail napkins. You can choose from a variety of designs and colours to suit your taste. The napkins will be the decorative element of your candles, so choose a style that appeals to you. You will also need Mod Podge, which is a type of glue or decoupage medium that will help you adhere the napkins to the glass. A brush is required to apply the Mod Podge, so choose a suitable paintbrush or craft brush. Lastly, a pair of scissors will be useful to cut the napkins to the correct size and shape to fit your candles.
The Mod Podge acts as a glue to attach the napkins to the glass surface of the candles, and it also provides a protective coating. It is recommended to use a paintbrush to apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the napkin and then carefully smooth the napkin onto the glass, working in sections to avoid wrinkles. The brush helps to ensure an even application of the Mod Podge and creates a smooth finish.
When choosing your napkins, consider the size and shape of your candles. You will need to cut the napkins to fit the glass enclosure. The scissors will allow you to trim the napkins to the correct size, ensuring a neat finish. Cut the napkins to fit the height of the candle, leaving a little extra napkin at the top and bottom. You can then use the brush and Mod Podge to adhere the extra napkin at the edges, creating a seamless look.
By gathering these supplies—glass-enclosed candles, cocktail napkins, Mod Podge, a brush, and scissors—you will have everything you need to begin your candle Mod Podge project. This fun and easy craft allows you to transform plain candles into colourful centrepieces or personalised gifts. With these basic supplies, you can create stylish and unique candles that showcase your creativity and add a decorative touch to your space.
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Prepare the candle: remove labels, separate printed ply of the napkin, and cut the napkin to size
To prepare your candle for Mod Podging, start by removing any labels. An easy way to do this is by soaking the candle in a mug of water for a few minutes, after which the label should peel right off. Next, separate the printed ply of the napkin from the blank ply. If your napkins are only one-ply, there will be nothing to separate, and you can skip this step.
Now, lay your candle on the unfolded napkin, centring it so that there is a little extra napkin on both the top and bottom. Use scissors to cut off the napkin at the top edge, leaving about a half-inch extra that will be tucked around the bottom of the candle. This extra napkin will ensure complete coverage of the candle and a neat finish.
If you prefer, you can cut out specific designs from the napkin to create a unique pattern on your candle. This method involves gluing the cut-out designs onto the napkin before applying it to the candle. Alternatively, you can use the entire napkin to wrap the candle, trimming off any excess napkin at the end.
Once you are happy with the size and design of your napkin, you are ready to start Mod Podging! This process will involve applying a layer of Mod Podge to the candle and smoothly attaching the napkin, ensuring no wrinkles or bubbles.
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Apply Mod Podge: paint a strip of Mod Podge along the napkin's edge and press it onto the candle
To Mod Podge a photo on a candle, you'll need a glass-enclosed candle, a photo or decorative napkin, scissors, Mod Podge, and a brush. Begin by removing any labels from the candle by soaking it in water for a few minutes, then gently peeling off the label. Next, separate the printed ply of the napkin or photo from any blank layers, discarding the blank ply. Centre the candle on the unfolded napkin or photo, ensuring there is a little extra napkin on both the top and bottom. Cut the napkin to size, leaving about a half-inch extra.
Now, you're ready to apply the Mod Podge. Paint a one-inch strip of Mod Podge along the front edge of the napkin or photo. Carefully lay the candle onto the glued edge, aligning the top edge of the napkin with the top lip of the glass. Smooth out any air bubbles and creases as you go. Repeat this process, turning the glass over and applying Mod Podge to the glass before gently rolling the napkin onto the glue, working in small sections.
Once the entire glass surface is covered, apply a small amount of glue to the first edge of the napkin and overlap the second edge on top. Smooth everything together to ensure a seamless finish. Trim off any excess napkin, except for the edge along the bottom. Finally, brush a little glue along the bottom of the glass and press the edges of the napkin into place. Allow the project to dry for at least 15 minutes before displaying your beautifully decorated candle!
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Smooth and secure: smooth out the napkin, trim excess, and cover with a light coat of Mod Podge to secure
To mod podge a photo on a candle, you'll need a glass-enclosed candle, a photo or napkin, scissors, Mod Podge, and a brush. First, remove any labels from the candle by soaking it in water for a few minutes, then peel off the label. Next, separate the printed ply of the napkin from the blank ply. Lay your candle on the unfolded napkin, centering it so there's a little extra napkin on both the top and bottom. Cut the napkin down to size, leaving about a half-inch extra.
Now, you're ready to smooth and secure:
Smooth and Secure
Paint a one-inch strip of Mod Podge along the front edge of the napkin. Gently lay the candle onto the glued edge of the napkin, ensuring the top edge of the napkin lines up with the top edge of the glass. Smooth out the napkin as you go, removing any air bubbles or creases. Turn the candle over and brush Mod Podge along the glass, rolling the napkin onto the glue in small sections at a time. Use a piece of plastic wrap on top to smooth the napkin and prevent tearing. Work from the middle out, applying light but firm pressure with your brush. Trim off any excess napkin, leaving only the edge along the bottom.
Once the entire candle is covered, apply a light coat of Mod Podge to the bottom edge of the napkin and overlap the second edge on top of the first. Smooth this final section to ensure the glue attaches to the napkin and glass. Set the candle on its top edge to dry for at least 15 minutes.
With these steps, you can smoothly and securely apply a photo or design to your candle using Mod Podge!
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Additional tips: use spray Mod Podge for ease, or paint the candle with acrylic paint for a different look
Mod Podge is a popular decoupage medium that is used by crafters to easily adhere paper, fabric, and other materials to a variety of surfaces. It is available in different formulas, such as spray, gloss, and matte, each offering unique advantages. The spray formula provides a convenient and mess-free application, making it ideal for quick DIY projects. Its ease of use and versatility make Mod Podge a crafting essential for many.
When using Mod Podge to adhere a photo to a candle, there are some additional tips that can enhance the final result and simplify the process. One suggestion is to use spray Mod Podge, which offers convenience and precision in application. The spray formula eliminates the need for brushes, reducing cleanup time and mess. It also allows for better control over the amount of product applied, ensuring a more uniform and smooth finish.
Another tip is to explore painting the candle with acrylic paint to create a unique and personalized look. Painting candles can be a fun and relaxing activity, offering a variety of decorative options. However, it is important to note that burning a candle painted with acrylic paint may release toxic fumes due to the plastic content in the paint. Therefore, painted candles are best used for decorative purposes or as thoughtful gifts, adding a special touch without being burned.
When painting a candle, it is recommended to use non-toxic acrylic paint and avoid applying paint too close to the wick. This helps ensure that even if the paint melts, it won't mix with the flame. Creating an ombre effect or adding decorative leaves and berries are some creative ways to decorate your candle. Remember to always exercise caution and prioritize safety when working with candles.
Additionally, when using Mod Podge, it is important to properly clean the brushes after each use. Regular brush cleaner or non-abrasive soap can effectively remove the product, allowing for repeated use without the need for constant replacement. This not only saves costs but also ensures a smooth and mess-free crafting experience.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a glass-enclosed candle, cocktail napkins, scissors, Mod Podge, a brush, and rubbing alcohol.
First, clean the surface of the candle with rubbing alcohol. Then, cut the napkin to the size of the candle, with about a half-inch extra. Paint a strip of Mod Podge along the napkin's edge and press it onto the glass, smoothing as you go. Cover the whole thing with a light coat of Mod Podge and let it dry for at least 15 minutes.
It is not recommended to burn a candle with Mod Podge on it. Instead, you can use a battery-operated candle.
Yes, you can use any type of napkin, but make sure to separate the printed ply from the blank ply if you are using 2-ply napkins. You can also cut out designs from the napkins to glue onto the candle.











































