Brooke Martin
There are many ways to repurpose candle jars, from using them as storage containers for small items to creating new candles. Before repurposing a candle jar, you must ensure that it is clean and free of wax. This can be done by boiling water, freezing the jar, or melting the wax in a microwave. Once the jar is clean, you can use it for various purposes, such as storing coins or serving drinks. You can also make new candles by purchasing refill wax kits or using leftover wax from old candles. Decorating the jars is another option, and they can be used as decorative items or even plant pots. Repurposing candle jars is a great way to be resourceful and reduce waste.
Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reuse candle jars | Make new candles |
| Storage for coins, jewellery, bobby pins, ponytail holders, etc. | |
| Food and drink containers | |
| Plant pots | |
| Candle-making and candle-burning accessories storage | |
| DIY décor items | |
| Methods to remove wax | Boiling water |
| Freezing | |
| Soaking in warm water | |
| Baking |
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What You'll Learn
Use candle jars for storage
Candle jars can be used for storage in a variety of ways. Firstly, it is important to remove any remaining wax from the candle jar. This can be done by boiling water and pouring it into the candle jar, leaving an inch of space at the top. The water will melt the wax, causing it to float to the surface, and then it can be discarded. Another method is to place the candle jar in the freezer overnight, and in the morning, the wax should pop out easily.
Once the jar is clean, it can be used for a variety of storage purposes. For example, it can be used as a change jar, where you can drop in your spare change, or as a storage jar for small items such as jewellery, bobby pins, or hair ties. You could also use it to store candle-burning accessories such as wick dippers, candle snuffers, long-stemmed matches, lighters, and small matchbooks.
Candle jars can also be used as decorative storage. For example, you could decorate the outside of the jar by painting it or transferring a photo onto it with modge podge and placing an LED tea light inside. You could also use the jar as a snack bowl or tumbler, especially if the jar is food-safe, but be sure to check with the manufacturer if you are unsure.
Finally, candle jars can be used for storage in the home, such as keeping one near the front door to empty your pockets into when you come home, or using it to store small items in your bathroom or bedroom.
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Make new candles
Making new candles from old jars is a great way to save money and be environmentally friendly. Here is a step-by-step guide to making new candles from your old candle jars:
Step 1: Clean Out the Old Jars
First, you need to remove the old wax from your candle jars. One way to do this is by boiling water and pouring it into the jar, leaving about an inch of space at the top. The hot water will melt the wax, causing it to float to the surface. Let the water cool completely before removing the wax. Be sure to strain the water and discard any remaining wax or candle bits. You can also try this method with warm water and let the jar soak for about 30 minutes. This method may remove the label on the jar, but if you want to remove labels, you can also try soaking the jars in hot water.
Another option is to freeze the candle jar overnight and then flip it upside down to pop out the wax. If the wax doesn't come out easily, use a spoon or butter knife to lift and remove it.
Step 2: Prepare the Wax
You can buy candle refill wax kits online, or you can reuse the extra wax from your old candles. To melt the wax, put it in a microwavable tub or a disposable plastic cup and microwave it in short intervals until it is thoroughly melted. You can also try melting the wax on the stove or using an electric kettle to boil water.
Step 3: Prepare the Wick
Measure your jar before ordering a wick to ensure you get the correct size. Swan Creek sells wicks of varying widths, so you can find one that fits your jar perfectly. This will ensure an even burn. Use a skewer, chopstick, or similar item to wrap any extra length of the wick around, keeping the wick centred as the wax hardens.
Step 4: Pour and Set
Line your surface with wax paper to catch any spills. Pour the melted wax into your clean candle jars, being careful not to spill. Allow the wax to harden, and you're done! You have a new candle in your old jar.
Tips
- If you want to layer different scented waxes, pour and set one scent at a time.
- Be cautious when melting wax, as it can be dangerous. Always use a glass dish to melt the wax in the microwave, and be careful not to spill.
- Do not attempt to make candles in a small, enclosed space, as the scent will linger for a long time.
Repurposing your old candle jars to make new candles is a fun and sustainable way to enjoy your favourite scents.
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Use as a drinking glass
Candle jars can be reused in many ways, but if you want to use them as drinking glasses, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, you need to ensure that the jar is thoroughly cleaned and free of any wax residue. This can be done by using one of several methods: boiling water, freezing, or soaking in warm water.
The boiling water method involves boiling enough water to fill the jar, leaving an inch of space at the top. The hot water will melt the wax, causing it to float to the surface. Let the water cool completely before removing the wax and discarding it. Be sure to strain the water and remaining candle bits over a sink with a closed drain to avoid any wax clogging.
Alternatively, you can try the freezing method. Place the candle jar in the freezer overnight, and in the morning, the wax should have shrunk enough to pop out easily. If it doesn't come out on its own, use a spoon or butter knife to lift and remove it.
Finally, you can try soaking the jar in warm water for about 30 minutes. This will soften the wax, making it easier to remove. Keep in mind that this method may also remove the label on the jar.
Once the jar is clean and free of wax, it's important to check if the glass is food-safe. Some candle companies, like Boy Smells, use food-safe glass jars, but it's always good to check with the manufacturer if you're unsure.
Now that your jar is clean and food-safe, you can use it as a stylish drinking glass or tumbler. You can even use it to serve drinks to your guests, as suggested by Matthew Herman, co-founder of Boy Smells, who repurposes his favourite candle jars as unique serving glasses for parties. So, go ahead, give your favourite candle jar a second life, and cheers to sustainability!
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Decorate and add fairy lights
Decorating candle jars and adding fairy lights is a great way to repurpose them. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Painting and Modge Podge
You can decorate the outside of your candle jars by painting them or using the modge podge technique to transfer a photo onto the glass. This will give your jars a personal touch and make them stand out. Once you're happy with the design, pop an LED tea light inside, and you've got yourself a lovely little lantern!
Fairy Lights
Fairy lights can be wrapped around the outside of the jar or placed inside, creating a magical effect. If you opt for placing them inside, ensure the wiring and battery pack are easily accessible and not trapped. You could also try solar-powered fairy lights for a more eco-friendly option.
Colour and Theme
Consider the colour of your fairy lights and any decorations you add. Warm white or yellow fairy lights can create a cosy atmosphere, while cooler-toned lights may give a more modern or wintry feel. You could also theme your decorated jars and fairy lights to suit different occasions, such as a particular holiday or season.
Display Ideas
These decorated jars with fairy lights can be used as part of a table centrepiece or placed on a windowsill to create a warm and inviting glow. You could even hang them from hooks or branches to create a unique mobile or chandelier. Grouping multiple jars together can also make a stunning impact, especially if you vary the height and size of the jars.
Repurposing candle jars is a fun and creative way to reduce waste and add a personal touch to your space. With a little imagination, the possibilities are endless!
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Use for plant pots
If you're looking to repurpose your candle jars as plant pots, there are a few steps you should follow first to ensure your plants thrive. Firstly, you'll need to remove any remaining wax from the candle jar. One way to do this is by boiling enough water to fill the candle jar, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Pour the boiled water into the jar, melting the wax, which will then float to the surface. Let the water cool completely before removing the wax. You can also try freezing the candle jar, which will shrink the wax, making it easier to remove. Place the jar in the freezer overnight, and in the morning, the wax should pop right out.
Once the wax is removed, you'll need to clean the jar thoroughly. You can use soap and warm water, or for more stubborn wax residue, try using a butter knife or spoon to lift and remove it. Be sure to dry the jar completely before adding soil and plants.
When choosing plants for your new candle jar pot, consider the size and shape of the jar and select plants with similar water needs. Succulents and small cacti are great options for candle jars as they typically require less water and can thrive in smaller containers. You can also use candle jars for herbs like basil, parsley, or chives, or even small flowers like violets or pansies.
To plant in your candle jar, start by adding a layer of small rocks or pebbles to the bottom of the jar for drainage. Then, fill the jar about two-thirds full with potting soil. Carefully remove your plant from its current container and loosen the roots gently with your fingers. Place the plant in the centre of the candle jar and fill in the sides with more potting soil, patting down gently. Water your plant according to its needs, being careful not to overwater, as candle jars may not have drainage holes.
With these simple steps, you can give your candle jars a new life as stylish plant pots, adding a touch of greenery to your space while also being environmentally conscious.
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Frequently asked questions
One way to remove wax from a candle jar is to boil enough water to fill the candle jar, then pour it into the container, leaving an inch of space at the top. The wax will melt and float to the top. Let it cool before removing the wax. You can also try freezing the candle jar, which will shrink the wax, making it easier to remove.
Once you've removed the wax, you can repurpose your candle jars in many ways. You can use them as storage containers for small items like jewellery, bobby pins, spare change, or plant pots. You can also use them as drinking glasses or snack bowls, as long as you've cleaned them out well.
Yes, you can use your candle jars to make new candles. You can buy refill kits or use leftover wax from old candles. You can choose the scent and colour of the wax. Just make sure to measure your jars before ordering wicks to ensure an even burn.
Soak the jars in hot water to remove old labels.
