A floating candle over clear water beads is one of the simplest centrepieces you can make. The beads fill the vase and almost disappear in water, so the candle looks like it is sitting on glass. It works for weddings, dinner parties and long tables at events.
What you need
- A clear glass vase, cylinder or bowl
- Jumbo Clear Water Beads or standard Clear Water Beads
- Floating candles sized to the opening of your vase
- Water, and a jug for topping up
- Optional: flowers, greenery or a few coloured beads for an accent layer
Step 1: Soak the beads
Put the dry beads in a large bowl or bucket and cover them well with water. Leave them for about 8 hours, or overnight, until they stop growing. Drain any water they haven't taken up. Soak more than you think you need, as it is easier to have spares than to wait for a second batch on the day.
Step 2: Fill the vase
Spoon the beads into the vase until it is about two-thirds to three-quarters full. Jumbo clear beads give a bolder look where you can see each bead. Standard clear beads pack tighter and look more like clear water.
Step 3: Add water and the candle
Pour water over the beads until it sits a few centimetres above them. Float the candle on top. Keep the wick well clear of any flowers or greenery.
Step 4: Style it
- Push a single stem or a few leaves down between the beads before you add water, so they look suspended.
- Add a thin band of White or coloured beads at the base to match a wedding or party colour scheme.
- Group three vases of different heights down the middle of a table.
How long will it last?
In a vase, water beads stay looking good for about 2 to 3 weeks with water top-ups, and can be kept clean for up to 3 months. For a one-night event, set the vases up the day before.
Which pack size?
A 200g pack of standard beads makes roughly 11,000 beads, which suits several vases. If you are styling a whole venue, look at our 1kg packs. For one or two vases, a 50g pack is usually plenty. Our vase guide has more on sizing.
Common questions
- Can I reuse the beads? You can often get more than one use from them if you keep them clean, but fresh beads look clearest for an event.
- Are clear beads invisible? They are close to invisible under water, which is why they suit floating candles.
- Do I need special candles? Use candles sold as floating candles, and never leave a lit candle unattended.
Shipping
Regular shipping is free on all orders. Express Post is a flat $10. For Christmas and summer events, order by Saturday 19 December for delivery before Christmas.
Safety
Not a toy. Keep away from children and pets. Swallowed beads can cause a blockage. If swallowed, call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.
