Winter Warmers 2
Lighting & Candles
As I sit here on this dreary, rainy Saturday afternoon, I can't help but think about how crucial lighting is for all of us - especially in the winter months when it gets dark so early in the northern hemisphere. It can feel like we never see the light of day, right?
I know that feeling all too well! When I get home, I immediately change into my comfy PJs and by 8pm, I'm already dreaming of my cozy bed!
That's why I love setting the mood with some soft, calming lighting. Right now, I have a variety of battery-operated lights in my living room, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
There are so many lighting options available these days - from candles to fancy lightbulbs - that can help you create the perfect ambiance in your home.
I've gathered some of my favorite creative ways to use lighting, and I hope you find them as interesting and inspiring as I do.
Edison Antique Style Lightbulbs
I haven't gotten around to getting myself some of these yet, but I absolutely adore these vintage style bulbs!
They come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, and I've spotted them in various places like Amazon and eBay.
I'm actually thinking of getting some for the tree branch light fixture I mentioned in a previous blog post.
I can't get enough of how you can hang them up and admire the gorgeous blown glass designs without needing a lampshade.
Copper Wire Twinkle Lights
I first discovered these lovely copper wire lights at Wilkinson's last Christmas.
What I really like about them is how they blend seamlessly into the background, unlike the typical twinkle lights with bulky white plastic-coated wires.
The fact that the copper wire is flexible and bendable makes it perfect for shaping as needed.
I recently checked out the Wilko website & they are available online so it might be a good idea to grab some extras while they're still in stock.
I've come across similar lights online, both battery and mains operated. I only did a quick search on Amazon, but I'm sure you can find them in other places too.
I haven't personally purchased any from Amazon, so I can't vouch for their quality, but they're worth looking into.
I love using these lights to decorate by wrapping them around plants, weaving them through objects, like bookshelves, and winding them around tree branches.
I've also come across these amazing indoor/outdoor twinkle light curtains online that I'm very tempted to buy. They would look fantastic hung up behind a bed or covering a living room wall.
So cozy and inviting!
Candles and Tealights
Isn't it amazing how many beautiful candles are out there?
It just goes to show how much we appreciate good lighting and lovely scents in our lives.
Personally, I'm a big fan of the Yankee Candle range because they have so many fresh scents to choose from. I'm not really into candles that smell like baked goods or fruits, so I'm always on the lookout for new ones with natural, fresh scents.
However, one issue I've had with jar candles is that they tend to melt down the middle and leave the sides untouched, which feels like such a waste.
I recently learned a great tip to prevent this - make sure the wax melts all the way across the surface before blowing it out. It can take a few hours for this to happen, and it's not always practical to have a candle burning all day, especially if you're heading out.
That's why I prefer jar candles with multiple wicks - they melt across the surface faster.
I never thought I'd say this, but I've really grown to love battery-operated candles and tea lights.
While I still prefer the real deal, battery-operated ones are so convenient, especially in places where traditional candles aren't suitable.
The ones made from real wax look the most natural, and when grouped together, they create a stunning display.
There are countless ways to display your candles and tea lights, but here are a couple of ideas to get you started.
How about placing them in a cluster on a tray or arranging them on a mantelpiece for a cozy touch? The possibilities are endless!
Jam Jars -
Have you ever thought about using them as lanterns?
I mean, the possibilities are endless! You can paint them, cover them with pretty papers or fabrics, or even fill them with all sorts of interesting stuff.
I actually hosted a workshop recently where we made these awesome Moroccan style lanterns using jewel colored glass paints and gold puffy paints. They were super easy to put together and a lot of fun to make. P
And when you add a tea light or pillar candle inside, they give off the most beautiful light. It's like having a little piece of magic in your home.
So, next time you have some empty jam jars lying around, why not get creative and try making your own lanterns?
Containers you could use to hold candles
Candle Glass Jars -
You could try reusing candle glass jars once your candle has gone. I like the ones leftover from my from Yankee Candle, they're so versatile and I just love finding new ways to use them.
Here I have used one to hold some stones and a t-light candle. I think a plain pillar candle would look even better, but I didn't have any on hand.
You could also try using gravel or sand instead of stones, or get creative with items from your pantry like dried lentils, rice, or corn!
If you're using battery-operated candles or t-lights, you can even add flammable items like dried flowers.
The possibilities are endless!
Tin Cans -
Have you ever thought about turning tin cans into something super cute?
They actually look amazing when you paint and decorate them. And the best part is, it's so easy!
All you have to do is grab a hammer and nail, punch some holes in the can, and you've got yourself a beautiful lantern.
Plus, it's a budget-friendly DIY project! If you want to see how it's done, check out this tutorial.
Or you could use paint or paper to decorate them. There are so many ways to create them.
I hope you've enjoyed these fun ideas for making your home cozy and winter-ready!
I've put together a Pinterest folder with even more inspiring lighting ideas, so take a peek if you'd like.
I'd love to hear your thoughts and see your creations, so feel free to share them here on the blog or with me directly.
Create! Crafting From the Heart CIC - Company Number: 15765146
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