DIY Lace Votives...

Create sturdy candleholders from lace saturated with fabric stiffener. Fitted with tea lights in glass containers, these luminarias can be positioned alone or in groups around a room or along a mantel for instant ambience.

Votive Holder How-To

Use rectangular pieces of lace in several sizes to make a variety of votive holders. The long side of the lace will determine the circumference of the finished item. We used pieces that were 5 inches wide and 14 to 21 inches long. We like guipure for this project, because it has a large and distinct motif, but any medium- to heavy-weight lace will work. 

1. Cut lace into a rectangle in the desired size. Trim one of the long sides, which will be the top of the votive holder, following the lace's motif. Sew across the bottom with a loose running stitch and connect the 2 ends. Pull the thread, gathering the bottom into a tight circle, and knot. Whipstitch the short sides together. 

2. Place a balloon inside the lace, and then blow it up to fit the lace's dimensions. Set the balloon upright in a paper cup so the lace form is upside down. Arrange the gathered lace to create an even bottom. Spray with fabric stiffener until saturated. Let dry. 

3. Pop the balloon.

(via Martha Stewart)