Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir & Oak Tealight Trio with Custom Steel & Slate Inserts
A set of three handcrafted wooden tealight holders, one in western red cedar, one in Douglas fir and one in oak. Made in my Shropshire workshop, each holder features my own stainless steel and slate insert design, developed with safety in mind.
My custom insert design
I cut and finish each stainless steel insert myself. The construction brings together three carefully considered details:
- Stainless steel insert: separates the tealight’s metal cup from direct contact with the wooden sides of the holder.
- Reclaimed slate base: a disc at least 5 mm thick sits beneath the candle, forming a separate layer between it and the wooden base.
- Permanently fitted assembly: the steel and slate are fixed in place using heat resistant adhesive, with epoxy putty sealing the upper edge.
This carefully considered construction is an integral part of every holder I make, with attention given to the details inside as well as the finished appearance.
Three woods, brought together
The warm tones and contrasting grain of western red cedar, Douglas fir and oak give this trio its character. From the flowing grain of the softwoods to the more textured appearance of oak, each holder brings something different to the set.
Individually turned, sanded and finished with a softly rounded profile, the three holders can be arranged together as a centrepiece or displayed separately around your home.
What is included
- One western red cedar tealight holder
- One Douglas fir tealight holder
- One oak tealight holder
£68 for the complete set of three holders, each with its permanently fitted stainless steel and slate insert.
Making the most of the wood
Where possible, I use reclaimed wood, offcuts and smaller pieces bought from local timber merchants to make my homeware. Working with the timber available helps me keep waste to a minimum and can bring small differences in thickness, dimensions or shape between pieces. Each follows the same overall design, with measurements given approximately.
Handmade variation
Each piece is individually handmade, so slight variations in size, shape, grain and colour are part of the making process. The photographs show examples of the design. Your pieces will be very similar in overall style, but will not be the exact ones pictured.
The holders within a trio may also differ slightly from one another in size and shape. These small differences are part of the character of a handmade set.
Natural wood movement
Natural wood movement may occasionally cause small surface checks or slight separation around the insert.
Inspect the holders regularly, and discontinue use if an insert becomes loose, a holder becomes unstable, or a crack develops through the wooden wall or base.
Care and use
Wipe the wooden exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Never leave a burning candle unattended. Use on a stable, heat resistant surface, away from draughts, flammable materials, children and pets.
Use a tealight that fits comfortably within the insert. Follow the candle manufacturer’s instructions and allow everything to cool fully before handling.