Make a Simple T-light and Joss Stick/incense Holder

Quite simple to make using almost any type of wood, use this as a guide and design something
individual or carve a pattern or a personal design, as for the finish you could use straight sawn timber
and simply sand it, without any other detail being introduced.
This one is from an Oak offcut.

Step 1: Tools and Materials:

I've kept it basic so that most people can try this project...
Fret saw, Jig saw, Scroll saw or band saw.
Drill.
40mm Forstner bit. (but a spade bit would do - an auger would make a real mess).
2mm twist drill. (or nail).
Sharp 1/4" chisel. (or knife).
Sharp knife.
Various sandpapers.
Oil, wax or whichever you prefer.  - I go for natural wax or Danish or Tung oil.

Suitable wood, approx, 12mm - 25mm thick, 250mm - 300mm long, 50mm - 75mm wide - These measurements are only a guide as you can use your own design,

Step 2: WARNING!

- I now state the obvious...
Sharp tools and power tools are dangerous, you may hurt yourself if you don't take care.
Some wood finishes are flammable, so don't use them to finish a candle holder.
Never leave a burning candle unnattended.

Step 3: Get Your Pencil Ready...

Depending on what tools are available, design the shape you want, use the grain and natural features
such as knots and burrs to guide you so that you end up with an "organic" look.
Make sure that the end where you want the t-light to be is wide enough - at least 50mm, to accept a 40mm wide hole.

Step 4: Next...

Using a suitable saw, cut out the basic shape.  I'm using a band saw here, but a coping or fret saw would do also.

Step 5: Drill the Hole to Take a T-light

Drill a 40mm hole to take a t-light candle, make sure there is enough space around the hole, If using thinner stock then
take care that you don't drill too deep.

Step 6: Roughly Shape It...

Take off the sharp edges and add some interesting curves - A sharp knife would do for this, but here I am using a drawknife.

Step 7: Then...

Sand the piece nice and smooth using a course sandpaper first, and working down to a finer grade for the final finish.

Step 8: Now...

Using a 1/4" (6mm) chisel or a sharp knife cut out a small wedge shape at the opposite end from the hole.

Step 9: Drill a Hole As Shown..

Drill a 2mm diameter hole in the wedge at approximatley a 45 degree angle, this is to accept a
Joss stick/incense stick.
A small nail could  be used for this also.
At this point you may want to create a shallow channel, to better contain the incense ash, using a gouge or hook knife.

Step 10: Finally...

Give the piece a final smooth over with fine sandpaper, then apply your prefered finish and allow to completely dry before use, apart from the possible danger of flammable fumes, if the finish is still tacky the ash will stick to it.

Step 11: The Finished Product

This idea can be adapted in so many ways to design something to suit most peoples taste, from basic or rustic, to modern and stylish - you just need your imagination.
The forstner bit is a worthwhile investment.

Thanks for your time.