How to Make Mercury Glass Votives

Transform inexpensive glass votives and hurricanes into faux "mercury glass" candle holders using silver and gold leaf. These chic, handmade accessories will bring a little shine to any Christmas arrangement.

By Marian Parsons, Mustard Seed Interiors
Filed under: Christmas, Handmade, Decorating, Crafts, How To, Candles

Materials Needed:

glass votives and hurricanes
1 package silver leaf
1 package gold leaf

leaf adhesive
1" artist brush
soft, mop head brush

Apply Adhesive

Clean and dry glass. Using a one inch artist brush, apply leaf adhesive to inside of votive or hurricane. Allow to dry until adhesive is clear and tacky. Tip: Use a thin coat and brush over adhesive after about ten minutes of drying time to prevent drips and pooling.

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Add Gold Flecks

Tear gold leafing into small pieces and sprinkle inside votive in a random pattern. Use a finger tip to gently smooth down gold leaf.

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Apply Silver Leaf

Gently apply full sheets of silver leaf to entire interior of votive. Smooth down with a finger tip or mop brush. Once leafing is applied, buff with mop brush in a circular pattern to remove excess leaf. Insert candle or tealight and light as usual. Never leave a burning candle unattended. Tip: Gently remove some silver leaf with a finger nail to create a "crackled" effect.