Step 1
Obtain Metal
Pick up a piece of scrap metal (make sure it can bend) at a metal shop. Ours was cut to 42" x 16". Make sure to leave at least three extra inches so it can fold over the sides of the wood.
Step 2
Cut Wood Base
Cut the piece of wood to just two inches shorter than the length of your centerpiece. For a 42" x 10" centerpiece, cut the wood to 40".
Step 3

Score Metal
Lay the sheet metal facedown. Place the board in the middle of the metal and use a flat head screwdriver to score along the edges that will be folded.
Step 4

Bend Metal
Turn the piece around and carefully hammer along the edge to help bend it over the sides.
Step 5

Fold Metal
Turn the sheet metal back around again and pull the edges in together. Carefully fold up the edge. They will not be totally flat until they are hammered along the edges. Hammer carefully.
Step 6

Hammer Into Shape
Hammer the back until it lays the way you want. Turn it over to check the results.
Step 7

Mark Candles
Turn over to back and lay out the candles in the location you want them to sit on the piece. Mark the candle placement with a black marker.
Step 8
Pre-Drill For Screws
Use a metal drill to pre-drill all holes where the black markers are placed.
Step 9

Insert Screws
Insert screws in all the marked locations — only part way through.
Step 10
Tighten Screws
Move the piece to a place where you can fully insert the screws so they are sticking out of the front of the metal. Finish by tightening the screws by hand. Be careful handling the centerpiece with the screws now exposed through the top.
Step 11

Drill Decorative Holes on the Ends
Drill holes along the two unfinished ends. You may need to slide a piece of scrap wood underneath the metal while drilling the holes.
Step 12

Add Fringe
Use floral wire to create a fringe that closes the edge. You can make it decorative or close it like a seam.
Step 13

Apply Felt Pieces
Add felt furniture pads to the bottom of the piece, over the screw heads so it will protect your furniture from scratching.
Step 14

Insert Candle
Carefully screw in the large candles into the screws.
Optional: Take pieces of plastic leaves and place along the edge (tuck under) once placed on the table.