There’s a reason eucalyptus has shot to the top of wedding decor trends in recent years.  The silvery grey-green hue of a eucalyptus leaf provides the ideal accompaniment to any number of colour schemes.

Think of eucalyptus paired with an industrial theme – pops of copper and a mix of greens, or included in a whimsical palate along with soft peach and blush or even a classic romantic scheme paired with crisp whites and creams. It’s a versatile leaf that is not only readily available but budget-conscious too. This DIY Eucalyptus Candle Tutorial is a simple one and able to be replicated en-masse.

The leaves maintain their freshness for up to a week so the candles could be created ahead of time. You can either find eucalyptus leaves at your local flower market or if like me you’re partial to a morning walk, have a look closely at your local park, a nature strip or nearby bushland.  You’ll most likely find exactly what you need somewhere within your neighbourhood.

What you’ll need:

  • 3 x pillar candles in varying sizes
  • A few branches of eucalyptus leaves (or a bunch from your local flower market)
  • Scissors
  • Hot glue gun + glue
  • Jute twine

Step One.

Snip the leaves individually from the branches and arrange them in size order.  Depending on the size of your candles,


Step Two.

Plug in the hot glue gun and place some old paper down to catch any of the excess glue. Start with the smallest candle.  Place a thin bead of glue vertically down the candle.  Place a leaf on top and press until it holds.  Repeat this process until you have one layer of leaves around the candle.  Once you are at this point, take a good look at the candle and layer leaves on top using the same process if you think it looks sparse in any area.

Step Three.  

Repeat the process for the other two candles.  The first candle takes a little while but once you are in the swing it is an easy and enjoyable process.  Using the scissors, cut a length of twine approximately 80cm long.

Step Four.

Wrap the candle three times and tie it neatly with a double knot.  Repeat for all candles.  Voila! You now have a beautiful, rustic and handmade addition to your wedding tables.

All images by Jessica Derrick

Ms Polka Dot says: Bringing a touch of our best known Australian tree into your wedding, with its subtle colours and the memorable smell would be a simple yet wonderful way of reminding us of home.

About Jessica: I’m a writer and a lover of words and stories, pretty papers and flowers. I find great satisfaction in creating something beautiful from the simplest of materials. I’m happiest in a home bustling with conversation and music, sitting at a beautifully decorated table surrounded by good friends and delicious food – with a glass of champagne in hand, of course!