DIY Double-Paned Tea Light Holders: Dollar Store Craft!

Updated at: 10/05/2025

Transform ordinary dollar store glassware into enchanting, ambient lighting with this simple DIY project! Creating your own double-paned tea light holders is surprisingly easy and incredibly cost-effective, adding a touch of rustic charm to any space, from cozy living rooms to romantic dinner tables. Forget expensive store-bought decorations; this project utilizes readily available materials to achieve a stunning, handcrafted result that will impress your guests and brighten your home. The warm glow emanating from these handcrafted holders adds a unique and personal touch to your décor, perfect for creating a welcoming atmosphere.

This tutorial guides you through the straightforward process of assembling these beautiful tea light holders using nothing more than inexpensive supplies. Prepare to be amazed at how easily you can elevate your home décor with this budget-friendly craft. Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions, transforming plain glass jars into captivating pieces of home décor!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Dollar Store glass candle holders (various sizes)
  • Dollar Store tea light holders
  • E6000 glue
  • Hot glue gun
  • Optional: spray paint, marbles, gems
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use real tea lights, not candles with a larger flame. Larger flames pose a significant fire risk with this DIY project.
  • Never leave burning tea lights unattended. Place the finished tea light holder on a heat-resistant, non-flammable surface away from anything that could catch fire.
  • Ensure there's adequate ventilation around the tea light holder to prevent overheating and potential cracking of the glass.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Smallest Holder

    • Prepare the smallest glass candle holder. Because the smallest Dollar Tree tea light holder is too tall, use a smaller, empty Dollar Tree tea light holder instead.
    Prepare the smallest glass candle holder. Because the smallest Dollar Tree tea light holder is too tall, use a smaller, empty Dollar Tree tea light holder instead.
    Prepare Smallest Holder

  2. Glue Smallest Holder

    • Apply a small amount of E6000 glue to the outer edge of the smaller tea light holder.
    • Add a small amount of hot glue to the four corners of the smaller tea light holder for immediate hold.
    • Carefully center and press the smaller tea light holder into the larger glass candle holder. Let it cure overnight.
    Carefully center and press the smaller tea light holder into the larger glass candle holder. Let it cure overnight.Carefully center and press the smaller tea light holder into the larger glass candle holder. Let it cure overnight.Carefully center and press the smaller tea light holder into the larger glass candle holder. Let it cure overnight.
    Glue Smallest Holder

  3. Glue Remaining Holders

    • the speaker suggests using only E6000 for the larger sizes and letting it cure overnight.
    Repeat steps 2-4 for the medium and large glass candle holders, using appropriately sized tea light holders. Note: the speaker suggests using only E6000 for the larger sizes and letting it cure overnight.
    Glue Remaining Holders

  4. Decorate (Optional)

    • Add decorative elements like marbles, gems, or colored rocks inside the holders.
    Optional: Add decorative elements like marbles, gems, or colored rocks inside the holders.
    Decorate (Optional)

Read more: DIY: Create Custom Canister Labels with Silhouette Cameo

Tips

  • For a cleaner look, use only E6000 glue and let it cure overnight before handling.
  • Consider spray painting the inner tea light holder for a pop of color before assembling.
  • Use various sizes of Dollar Tree candle holders to create a set of different sizes.
  • These make excellent wedding centerpieces; try using a mirror and additional crystals for an elegant display.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Glue Application

Reason: Uneven glue distribution leads to air gaps and an unstable bond between the glass layers.
Solution: Ensure a thin, even layer of glue is applied around the entire edge of the inner glass before placing the outer glass on top.

2. Insufficient Drying Time

Reason: Rushing the drying process can result in the glass separating or the glue becoming weak, leading to a fragile and potentially unsafe tea light holder.
Solution: Allow the glue to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions before using the tea light holder.

FAQs

Can I use any type of glass jar for this project?
While many glass jars work, look for ones with a relatively wide mouth and straight sides for easiest assembly and a more even light distribution. Avoid jars with extremely thin or fragile glass.