Create a Tree Branch Candle Chandelier

Last month I created this guest tutorial for Craft Gossip and I'm so excited to share it here on Salvage Savvy today!! I just love this chandelier in my office, it's so pretty and festive... and is made from items that you probably have around your house already [tree branch, spray paint, yarn, glue, ribbon, ornaments & flameless candles]... not very fancy stuff, but it all combines to make a spectacular piece!

Here's how I made it...

First, begin by selecting a branch [this sounds simple enough… but I walked around waaaay too long searching for the perfect one!]. I liked this one because it had bark falling off which added great texture and interest.

I dusted it off and spray painted it using a Brushed Nickel color. Doesn't the bark look amazing in silver?!

 

Next I made the white yarn “candle holders.” For this you’ll need:

-100% Cotton yarn

-Plain-old School glue with a little water mixed in [about a 5:1 ratio]

-Balloons blown-up to the size of a large grapefruit and then covered in Vaseline

-A plastic table cloth [or just use a trash bag like me if you’re fancy!] because it gets messy.

Begin by dipping about 24” sections of your yarn into the glue and then squeeze off the excess back into the bowl.  Now immediately begin wrapping your balloon. You can’t mess this up, wrap away in any and every direction making sure to keep each layer tight on the balloon.  Just make sure to leave an opening big enough to squeeze your candles into it [I didn’t really do that, soooo yea… that’s important.].

Once you’re done, tuck the last piece underneath another so it’s not hangin’ out all loosey-goosey. Then roll the wrapped balloon around in glitter until it is nice and sparkly.

 Now set it aside and wait for it to dry completely [which is the hardest part for me because I’m impatient].

Once your balloons are dry, deflate the balloon inside and pull it out…so easy!

 

Next, I screwed 2 Mug hooks into the ceiling based upon my branch measurements. *Note: I chose a light branch… if you choose a heavy branch then you’ll want to use ceiling toggle bolts instead to make sure it’s safe.

Then I decided how low I wanted the branch and tied ribbon “loops” onto each hook at that length, which allowed me to simply slip my branch into the hanging loops.

Now you’re ready to assemble everything! Just thread ribbon into each yarn candle holder and ornament and tie them at the top of the branch.  Be sure to arrange it all at varying lengths for interest.

And I added a little birdy to my branch… I secured it onto the branch with hot glue, but I also attached it to the Mug hook using clear fishing wire for extra safety.

Finally, insert your flameless candles, turn them on and enjoy your beautiful new creation!! *Another safety note: ONLY use flamesless candles for this project!!*

I love this project because it can be used in so many different ways and for all seasons, but for now... it's all about Christmas :)