There’s something extra cozy about fall — the crisp air, the warm colors, and of course, the glow of candles on a cool evening. This year, I decided to create some DIY fall décor using items I already had around the house: old yogurt Oui jars, leftover candle wax, and scrap pallet wood. The result? A beautiful little candle tray that brings autumn charm to my home without spending a dime.
Let me walk you through how I made it!
Materials I Used
5 small yogurt wheat jars (or any glass jars you’ve saved) Leftover candle wax (from nearly finished candles) Scrap pallet board + wood shims (for the tray) Tan acrylic paint Paintbrushes Paper leaf punch Fall-colored scrapbook paper (yellows, oranges, browns) Mod Podge Nails and hammer (or wood glue if you prefer)
Step 1: Repour the Candles
I started by melting down leftover wax from old candles. You know those ones that burn almost all the way down, but you don’t want to toss them just yet? Perfect for this project! I melted the wax, then poured it into my five little yogurt jars.
The wax ended up being a rich maroon shade — which gives a gorgeous contrast against the lighter jars.
Step 2: Paint the Jars
Next, I gave the outside of the jars a coat of primer then tan paint. This neutral color makes the jars feel rustic and cozy, and it also helps the colorful leaves stand out later.
Step 3: Build the Tray
For the tray, I grabbed a long piece of pallet board that could fit all five candles side by side. To make sure the candles wouldn’t slide off, I nailed on some thin pallet scraps/wood shims around the edges.
This created a shallow tray that perfectly cradles the jars but still lets them be the star of the show. I painted the whole tray the same tan as the jars so it would all tie together.
Step 4: Add Fall Leaf Accents
To bring in that autumn vibe, I used my paper leaf punch to cut out little leaves from fall-colored scrapbook paper. Then I brushed Mod Podge on the jars and sealed the leaves onto the glass. The look is simple but so pretty — colorful fall leaves against the neutral tan paint, with dark wax glowing inside.
The Finished Look
The finished piece is rustic, cozy, and perfectly fall. The five little candle jars look beautiful sitting together on their handmade tray.
This DIY project was such a fun way to repurpose items I already had at home — jars, leftover wax, and scrap wood — and turn them into something I’ll enjoy all season long.
✨ Pro Tip: This idea can be customized for any season! Swap the tan paint for white and add snowflake cutouts for winter, or pastel flowers for spring.
— Your Frugal Crafter,
Dandychandee 