How to Use a Lantern Vase for Candles and Flowers
By Handmade Glasses & Glassware | LSA International | Published: 2026-10-25
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to use a lantern vase for candles and flowers. This guide covers setup, styling, and care tips for your versatile glass piece.
Quick answer
To use a lantern vase for candles and flowers, first decide on your primary use—candle or floral display—then follow simple setup steps to ensure safety and longevity. This versatile piece can transition between roles with ease.
Why a lantern vase works for both candles and flowers
A lantern vase is designed with a wide opening and a stable base, making it suitable for holding a pillar candle or a small bouquet. The hand-painted iridescent lustre adds a decorative touch whether lit or unlit, and the subtly-fluted texture catches light beautifully. Its dual-purpose nature means you can change the look of a room without buying separate pieces.
When to choose candles over flowers (and vice versa)
Use candles when you want warm, ambient lighting for dinners or cozy evenings. The unscented pillar candle supplied with the piece is a safe choice that won't compete with food aromas. Choose flowers when you need a fresh, colorful centerpiece for daytime events or when the vase is placed in a well-lit area. Avoid mixing both at the same time—the candle flame can damage fresh blooms and create a fire hazard.
Step-by-step guide
- Prepare the vase for use: Wash the lantern vase with warm soapy water and dry it thoroughly. If using a candle, ensure the interior is completely dry to prevent uneven burning. Check that the base is level on your table. A clean, dry vase prevents residue and ensures the candle sits flat.
- Set up the candle option: Place the unscented pillar candle (included) inside the vase. Center it on the solid glass base. Light the candle and allow the flame to settle. Keep the vase away from drafts and flammable materials. Never leave a burning candle unattended. Always trim the candle wick to ¼ inch before lighting to reduce soot.
- Arrange flowers for the floral option: Fill the vase with fresh water up to two-thirds of the height. Trim flower stems at a 45-degree angle and remove lower leaves. Arrange a small bouquet—3 to 5 stems work best—so the flowers sit above the rim. Change water every two days to keep blooms fresh. Avoid overfilling the vase; too many stems can block light and shorten vase life.
- Transition between uses: To switch from candle to flowers, extinguish the candle and let the vase cool completely. Remove any wax residue by placing the vase in warm water until the wax softens, then wipe clean. For the reverse, dry the vase thoroughly before inserting a new candle. Allow the vase to return to room temperature before changing functions to avoid thermal shock.
Product facts
- Lantern/Vase: This mouth-blown glass lantern/vase is hand painted with iridescent lustre and sits on a stepped cylindrical base of solid glass. The solid base provides stability for a candle or flowers, while the iridescent finish adds a subtle shimmer that enhances both candlelight and floral colors.
Lantern/Vase
