DIY Biscuit Tin Sconces - Inexpensive Wall Heaters for Any Room

Warm Up Any Room with DIY Tin Sconces

As energy costs continue rising, many people are looking for affordable ways to add warmth and ambiance to their homes. One creative solution is to make custom tin sconces using recycled materials. These charming wall sconces made from old biscuit tins and tealight candles allow you to inexpensively heat up small spaces in your home.

The Benefits of Tin Sconce Wall Heaters

During tough economic times, finding ways to reduce your cost of living is essential. Heating an entire house can be expensive, especially for those on tight budgets. Tin sconces offer a cost-effective way to generate a surprising amount of heat while using very few resources.

Some key benefits of DIY tin sconce wall heaters include:

• Very inexpensive to make
• Reuse old biscuit tins and tea candles
• Warm up small rooms and spaces
• Create a decorative, cozy ambiance
• Easy project for beginner DIYers
• Safe to mount on walls when proper precautions taken

Heating full rooms with tin sconces might not be realistic. But they work excellently for warming up entryways, bathrooms, offices, dorm rooms, or other small spaces in your home frugally.

Getting Started with Materials

The great thing about building biscuit tin wall heaters is that you likely already have most of the materials at home.

Here is what you will need:

• Empty tin containers (biscuit tins work perfectly)
• Tealight candles
• Drill with 1/2 inch bit
• Sturdy mounting hardware
• Decorative embellishments (optional)
• Heat resistant paint (optional)

Before using any tin container, inspect closely for sharp edges and dull them down with sandpaper. Thoroughly clean and dry the inside of each tin as well.

Constructing Biscuit Tin Wall Sconces

With the right planning, constructing functional and beautiful tin sconces is simple.

Follow these key steps:

1. Measure and mark holes where candles will go
2. Carefully drill holes for tealight cups
3. Add optional decorative outer holes/cutouts
4. Paint or embellish (optional)
5. Attach sturdy mounting plates and hardware
6. Mount securely on walls
7. Add tealight candles and enjoy the warmth

Drill the candle holes slightly larger than the bottoms of the tealights. This allows heat to radiate better. Place candle holes strategically to distribute heat evenly.

When drilling outer decorative holes, avoid removing so much metal that it compromises stability. Reinforce extensively pierced tins with additional mounting plates.

Mounting Your Tin Sconces Securely

Safely securing your homemade tin sconces is critical, as they will be heating up. Proper mounting keeps the wall and mounting surface protected too.

Use sturdy mounting plates and hardware designed for the wall type. Screw through the back of the tin into at least one stud. Consider adhesives designed for high temperatures as well.

Mount them at least 12 inches away from other combustibles. Position out of reach of pets and away from high traffic areas.

Decorating DIY Tin Sconces

Beyond just providing warmth, these charming tin sconces can become beautiful focal points full of personality.

Some ideas for decorating your recycled tea candle wall sconces include:

• Paint with heat resistant spray paint
• Use hammer and nails to create patterns
• Embellish with lace, ribbons, trim
• Glue on flowers, beads, sea glass
• Stencil on inspiring words or images

Choose lightweight decorations that can withstand higher temperatures. Avoid paper or other flammable items. Place most décor on cooler outer areas of each tin.

Warm Up Your Space Economically This Winter

With some spare tins, tealight candles, and DIY gusto, you can create gorgeous tin sconces that provide heat all winter for very little money.

Inexpensive, eco-friendly, and pretty, these homemade biscuit tin wall heaters are ideal for going green while keeping your budget out of the red. They allow you to save on energy bills without sacrificing comfort or charm.

FAQs

How much heat do tin sconces put out?

A single tin sconce with 3-4 tealight candles can produce around 50-150 BTUs of heat output. The amount of warmth will depend on the size of the container, number of candles, and other factors. This is generally enough to heat a 25 square foot area quite effectively.

Is it safe to mount tin sconces on my walls?

Yes, biscuit tin sconces are safe if installed properly. Use sturdy hardware designed for high temperatures. Screw into studs or use quality adhesives. Allow plenty of clearance from other combustibles. Never mount near flammable liquids or materials.

How creative can I get with decorating these?

Feel free to decorate the cool outer areas of your tin sconce however you wish! Paint designs, glue trim or findings, stencil inspirational words, and more. Just avoid paper or flammable embellishments near candle heat zones.

What size drill bit should I use?

For most tealight candles, a 1/2 inch drill bit will create holes slightly larger than the candle base. This helps maximize heat dissipation potential. Adjust drill bit size as needed based on your candles and container.