Interior designers know that there are a number of tricks to make candles function as simple and inexpensive decorations. Try some of these tricks to transform your home without shelling out a lot for a decorator:
*Set up candles on a ledge or mantle behind some panes of colored glass and position the candles so that they cast their light on the wall. Of course, make sure that there is nothing flammable nearby. The effect will be a rainbow-like tint on your walls, which looks stunning on both white and colored walls. You can add a few inexpensive ledges to your walls solely for this purpose.
*Take a tin or tin pail, paint it a pretty color and punch out tiny holes in the tin. Create decorative patterns with the holes. Then, place the tins or buckets in windows or on shelves and place tiny tea lights inside. In a dim room, the effect is very summery and fresh, as the light escapes the tiny holes in pretty patterns.
*Experiment with pretty candleholders. There are many craft shops, craft fairs, junk shops, and department stores selling candleholders. You are sure to find something that matches both your style and your budget. Look for old-fashioned tall candlesticks made from iron or brass and for candelabras, both of which can really liven up mantels and tabletops. Also, be on the lookout for tiny candleholders for tea lights. There are candleholders that project the candlelight through a thick pane of colored glass. The candle is lit behind the glass so that it is hidden and only its glow can be seen.
*Bunch decorative candles of different heights but the same colors together on a table. Even unlit, these create a very professional effect. You see this sort of arrangement in professionally-decorated homes all the time, but you can achieve the same effect yourself.
*Add candle shades. In Victorian homes, candles were placed in tall candleholders and women created pretty candle shades for the candle flame. Similar in appearance to lamp shades, candle shades dim down the flame of a candle for a softer glow and also can create pretty color variations. Add a pink candle shade to a candle, for example, and you will get soft pink candle light. This can be very useful if you are trying to get a specific effect. Beyond that, candle shades can look very elegant.
*Experiment with unusual candles. Opt for unusual shades, sizes, shapes, and colors. Try an enormous candle surrounded by tiny tea lights. Or try a huge round candle. Opt for a candle that has a rich, multi-layered scent. Whatever you do, try candles that attract attention. It's a lot less expensive than artwork and can easily be changed with your mood or style.
*Create centerpieces with candles. Place candles in a wreath, under a bell jar or in a pretty basket. Place some unit candles on top of your books, creating a pretty display. While your candles are sitting around waiting to be used, you can make the most of their pretty shapes and colors by displaying them.
Article source: http://decorative-candles.blogspot.com/2007/09/decorative-candles-and-design.html
