The convent of St. Teresa in the remote hills of Spain has remained unchanged for nearly three centuries. Yet while the nuns have always gone about their business below, no one seems to know who maintains the candle in the room at the top of the stairs.

Or, it's just a cool piece to place on a shelf and watch people try to peer in and wonder what's up there. The magic of this small piece is the illusion created by the sense of something at the top of the stairs, where the eye cannot see, and by the candle on the table, which appears to have no wires. 

You will create these effects using detailed instructions as a guide. As with all my DIYs, the instructions are in PDF format allowing you to zoom in on the color photos and videos using your tablet, laptop or phone. (If you'd like to see a sample of the instructions for a similar DIY, check out the menu option above under Shop, then choose DIY - Sample).

You will learn techniques you can apply elsewhere, such as making a plaster look, installing lighting, and using objects to create mood. All parts needed to complete the scene as shown are provided, except the optional painting. The tools, paint and glues required are spelled out in the document.

Estimated completion time: 10 - 20 total hours, depending on pace and drying time.