DIY Edition: Jars

Do you like to burn candles? How about those scented waxes that you heat up in warmers? I have used both for some time and was frustrated when it came time to pitch all of that excess wax. So, I stopped by my local craft store, picked up a small box of candle wicks and now I'm reusing wax to make new candles.

It's easy - let me walk you through it.

Steps for candles:

• Once candle is burnt up, remove the excess wax with a butter knife. Sometimes you can cut it into small sections to remove it from the jar. You can also freeze it for a short time and the wax should pop right out. Once the wax is out, pry off the old wick base if you plan to reuse the jar.
• Prep the new candle jar by pouring a drop of oil into the bottom for the wick to set on. This makes them easier to remove when your new candle burns up.
• Place the wick in the bottom of the jar and steady the top of the wick to keep it centered during the wax pouring process. I use popsicle sticks, forks, or any other worthy utensil laying around.
• Heat the old wax on a candle warmer [in an appropriate jar or bowl] or a wax warmer. Once melted, pour into the new candle jar.

Steps for warmers:

• When the wax is no longer scented [or you tire of it] simply begin by heating it up and preparing it for your new candle.
• Prep the new candle jar by pouring a drop of oil into the bottom for the wick to set on. This makes them easier to remove when your new candle burns up.
• Place the wick in the bottom of the jar and steady the top of the wick to keep it centered during the wax pouring process. I use popsicle sticks, forks, or any other worthy utensil laying around.
• Once the wax is ready, pour into the new candle jar.

The not-so-obvious perks to these gems are:

• Multiple scents throughout the candle's burn
• Color coordination with your decor
• Great little gifts to give alongside gift cards 

On the topic of jars, I found this transition quite natural. Below is a jar that once contained a single serving of jam. Albeit cute, the lid was a bit tacky for re-gifting or exposed use throughout my house. A little roughing up with sandpaper did the trick and now they're ready for re-use!

Thanks for stopping by the Humble Hammock and looking around; do come back!

Cara

P.S. - Comment below with blog posts that you'd like to see!