As a first step, if your gourds won’t sit flat on their own, slice off the bottom so they won’t wobble.
Next, cut off the top where you will drill your hole. For pumpkins, you won’t need to do this step.
Drill a hole in the top wide enough and just deep enough to hold the tea light.
Drop in your tea lights, and that’s it! Super easy and cute fall decoration.
DIY Gourd Tea Light Holder Tips
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Choose the Right Gourd: Select a small, firm gourd with a smooth surface. If you’re using a dried gourd, make sure it’s completely hollowed out and clean before starting your project.
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Clean the Gourd: If using a fresh gourd, scrape out the seeds and pulp with a spoon or knife. Dried gourds might need some gentle cleaning to remove any leftover debris.
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Design Your Patterns: Use a pencil or marker to sketch your design lightly on the surface. You can create intricate patterns, geometric designs, or even simple cut-out shapes for a more rustic look.
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Use the Right Tools: A small carving knife or a Dremel tool with fine tips is ideal for creating clean, detailed holes in the gourd for the tea light to shine through. Make sure to wear gloves for protection and work in a well-ventilated area if you’re using power tools.
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Test the Fit: Before making any permanent cuts, place the tea light inside the gourd to check the fit. Make sure it’s stable and won’t tip over easily.
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Finishing Touches: Once you’re satisfied with the holes, use sandpaper to smooth the edges of your carving. If you want to give your gourd a polished look, apply a coat of varnish or natural oil to enhance the color and texture.
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Safety First: Always keep the tea light holder away from flammable materials, and never leave a lit tea light unattended. Consider using battery-operated LED tea lights for added safety.
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Decorate: After the carving is done, you can further decorate your gourd by painting, adding beads, or incorporating natural elements like twine or ribbon for a personalized touch.
FAQs About DIY Gourd Tea Light Holders
1. How do I dry a gourd for crafting?
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To dry a gourd, clean out the seeds and pulp, then let it air dry in a warm, dry place for several weeks. You can also use a dehydrator for faster results. Ensure it’s fully dried out to prevent mold growth.
2. What’s the best way to carve a gourd?
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Use a small carving knife or a Dremel tool. Start by scoring your design with a pencil, then gently carve along the lines. It’s easier to carve in stages than to cut too deep all at once.
3. Can I use real candles in my gourd holders?
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You can use real candles, but be very cautious. Make sure the gourd is not too close to anything flammable, and never leave a lit candle unattended. For added safety, LED tea lights are recommended.
4. Can I paint the gourd after carving it?
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Yes, you can paint the gourd after carving. Make sure the carving is smooth, then apply a primer and your choice of paint. Acrylic paint works best, and you can seal it with a clear varnish afterward.
5. How do I know where to cut the holes for the light?
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It’s helpful to test out different designs on paper first. For a simple effect, you can cut small holes along the gourd’s surface. Larger holes work well for a more dramatic light effect. Be sure to leave space at the top for the tea light to sit comfortably.
6. Can I make a large gourd tea light holder?
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Yes, larger gourds can be used for bigger tea light holders. Just be mindful of the weight, as larger gourds can be top-heavy. Consider adding a sturdy base to support it.
Becky is the voice behind Life in Velvet, an organised, intentional living blog focused on practical food, calm homes, thoughtful projects, and everyday systems that make real life feel easier. A mum of 3 living in the UK, Becky writes from lived experience, sharing what works, what doesn’t, and the decisions that make family life run more smoothly.
With a background in marketing and content writing, and over a decade of blogging experience, she brings a thoughtful, structured approach to everything from baking and home projects to routines and decision-making. Life in Velvet is where planning meets creativity, with ideas designed for real homes and real life.