Incense holders are a beautiful and useful way to burn incense sticks, cones, or resins. They keep your incense from making a mess and add a touch of peace to any room.
A DIY incense holder is a great alternative to store-bought options because you can make it as unique as you are. A DIY incense holder also allows you to express your style and creativity, and it can be a fun and satisfying project.
This article will show you how to create your own DIY incense holder. We’ll cover clay-based designs and other creative materials so you can craft an incense holder that’s perfect for you.
Choosing Your Materials: Clay, Wood, and Beyond
The type of material you choose for your DIY incense holder will affect how it looks and how easy it is to make. Here are some options:
Clay: A Versatile Option
Clay is a great choice for an incense holder because it’s so versatile. You can use air-dry clay, which is easy to work with and doesn’t need to be fired in a kiln. Polymer clay is durable and comes in lots of colors. Ceramic clay gives you a professional finish, but you’ll need access to a kiln.
When you’re picking out clay, think about how long it takes to dry (it depends on the type and how thick it is) and how much it costs. Availability might also affect your choice.
Wood: Natural and Rustic
Wood gives your incense holder a natural, rustic look. You can use different types of wood like pine, cedar, or bamboo, depending on the look you want.
Working with wood means you’ll need to saw, drill, and sand. You can also use wood-burning tools to add decorative details.
Other Creative Materials
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box! You can use other materials too.
- Concrete gives a modern, industrial vibe, but it can be heavy and you’ll need molds.
- Resin lets you embed objects for unique designs, but you need good ventilation and safety gear.
- Metal is durable and sleek, but it’s harder to work with unless you have special tools.
Designing Your Incense Holder: Inspiration and Ideas
Before you even start gathering materials, spend some time brainstorming and sketching out your design. Think about the size, shape, and overall vibe you want your incense holder to have.
Where can you get inspiration? Everywhere! Look to nature – the curve of a leaf, the shape of a stone. Geometric patterns are always a great starting point, or you could just go wild with abstract art.
Consider the different styles of incense holders:
- Bowl-shaped: These are great for catching ash and can be really decorative.
- Linear: These have a simple groove for the incense stick to rest on. Minimalist and chic!
- Cone-shaped: Perfect if you prefer burning incense cones instead of sticks.
Most importantly, think about functionality and safety! Make sure your holder is stable and won’t tip over easily. The hole for the incense stick needs to be positioned just right so the incense burns evenly and safely. You don’t want to set anything on fire!
Crafting a Clay Incense Holder: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to get crafty? Here’s how to make your own incense holder out of clay.
Step 1: Prepare the Clay
First, you’ll need to knead the clay until it’s soft and easy to work with. Then, roll it out into a flat sheet using a rolling pin or a special clay roller. Aim for it to be about 1.5 cm thick – not too thin, not too thick.
Step 2: Create the Base
Now, it’s time to create the base of your incense holder. You can use a template made from cardboard or plastic to cut out the shape you want. For a fun, quirky design, try using the shape of a cereal bowl!
Once you’ve cut out the shape, gently shape the edges of the clay to create a bowl or dish. To attach the edges securely, use the “score and slip” method, which basically means roughing up the edges and using a little bit of watered-down clay as glue.
Step 3: Add Details
This is where you can really get creative! Sculpt a little spoon to hold your incense stick. Use modeling tools to shape the spoon and create a hole in the handle where the incense stick will sit.
If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can even create miniature cereal-shaped decorations to add to your incense holder. Again, use modeling tools to shape and detail the cereals – the more creative, the better!
Step 4: Let the Clay Dry
Now comes the waiting game. Let the clay dry completely according to the instructions on the clay packaging. Drying time can vary, but it usually takes around 24-48 hours, depending on how thick the clay is.
Step 5: Sand and Paint
Once the clay is completely dry, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges. Then, it’s time to paint! Use acrylic paints or any other finishes you like to personalize your incense holder. Match it to your decor, create a colorful design, or go for a minimalist look – it’s all up to you!
Adding Finishing Touches: Resin, Varnish, and More
Once you’ve got the basic design set, it’s time for the fun part – making it look amazing!
Creating a “Milk” Effect with UV Resin
To get a cool, milky look, mix UV resin with white titanium acrylic paint. Then, carefully pour the mixture around the decorative elements you’ve already added. Try not to get the resin directly on the decorations, just around them. Finally, cure the resin under a UV light. Remember to follow all the safety guidelines when you’re working with resin!
Applying Varnish for Protection
Apply varnish to the outside of your incense holder (but not inside the hole where the incense stick goes!). Make sure the varnish you choose is okay to use with the paint you’ve already used. Varnish protects the paint and gives your incense holder a nice, shiny finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use to hold an incense stick?
You can use a variety of items to hold an incense stick. Purpose-made incense holders are readily available, but you can also repurpose household items. Suitable materials include small ceramic bowls filled with sand or rice, metal lids with a hole punched in the center, or even a block of clay or playdough with a hole poked into it. Make sure whatever you use is non-flammable and stable.
How do you make a makeshift incense holder?
Creating a makeshift incense holder is easy! A simple method involves using a small bowl filled with sand, salt, or uncooked rice. Gently insert the incense stick into the filling, ensuring it stands upright. Another option is to bend a paperclip into a stand or poke a hole into a piece of fruit (like an apple or orange) – just be sure to place the fruit on a non-flammable surface.
What is an alternative to incense sticks?
If you’re looking for alternatives to incense sticks, consider using essential oil diffusers, wax melts, or scented candles. Essential oil diffusers disperse fragrance into the air without smoke, while wax melts release scent when heated. Scented candles offer both fragrance and ambiance. Each option provides a different sensory experience, so experiment to find what you enjoy most.
What can I use instead of an incense holder?
Beyond the typical incense holder, many creative solutions exist! Try using a potato, a wine cork, or even a seashell. The key is to ensure the alternative is stable, non-flammable, and can safely catch the ashes. Get creative and explore different materials around your home to find a unique and functional solution. Remember safety first!
Wrapping Up
So, there you have it: a few simple ways to create your own incense holder. From choosing your materials to adding those special, finishing touches, the process is pretty straightforward and satisfying.
Don’t be afraid to play around with different designs and techniques. There are so many ways to personalize your incense holder! Try different colors, shapes, and materials to make something that truly reflects your style.
There’s something special about using something you made with your own hands. Your handcrafted incense holder won’t just hold your incense; it’ll add a little bit of peace and beauty to your home, too.