DIY: Re-purpose and Up-cycle Candle Jars

In the spirit of no-buy month, I thought what better DIY project to share than one that involves something you probably already have lying around! Whether you have a collection of old candle jars that would make even a hoarder cringe like I do, or you just finished burning one and don't want to toss it in the trash, this is a super simple way to clean them out and reuse them as various storage and decorative containers.

If you're working with an assortment like I have here, pick one out that you want to use. I chose to use the Spiced Apple Toddy jar from Bath and Body Works, since it has a decorative lid and I plan on making this into a closed storage container. Place your jar in the freezer (without the lid) for about 30 minutes or until the wax is pretty firm and frozen.

Next, take a knife and cut into the wax so that it starts to crack and break up into little pieces. I find it best to use a steak knife rather than a butter knife, so be very careful not to let it slip. The last thing we need is a sliced finger! Also, it helps if you can toss some of the pieces out as they break off. When all is said and done, you should be left just the wick(s) which are glued to the bottom of the jar.

Fill your jar with hot water and let it sit in the sink for several minutes. This will loosen the glue so you can pop the wicks out. Again, you might have to use a knife to get under the metal depending on how stubborn it is.

To remove the labels, I fill my sink with hot soapy water and let the jar soak for several more minutes. Then it's very easy to scrub the label with a rough sponge to remove it. Goo-gone also works wonders for this (and the leftover sticky residue).

Just dry your jar, and voila! You have a clean jar ready to be turned into something wonderful and new. Here are some of my personal favorite uses for these jars: