Guide to Candle Jars for Candle Making

Container candles can be some of the most beautiful candles you can make. Many different looks can be achieved by using the various styles and sizes of glass containers that we offer. Distinct labeling and/or packaging is also helpful in achieving your own special look for your candles.

Many candle-makers prefer the traditional look of an apothecary jar with a glass lid, such as the one shown to the right. Others prefer the rustic look of an apothecary jar with rustic metal lids. Many customers appreciate the value of our large selection of jars with gold colored lids such as our hexagon jars or tureen jars. Which container to choose is a matter of personal taste.

Safety is a very important issue to keep in mind when selecting a container for your candle. All containers that we offer are approved for use as a candle container.

One very important safety factor to consider is whether or not the container is constructed of non-flammable material. Wood, obviously, would make a poor choice as a candle container due to its flammability. Another important factor to consider is whether or not the container is constructed of non-porous material. A highly porous material such as terracotta or clay has the potential ability to soak up the wax and act as a wick, drawing enough of the wax (fuel) to the combustion cycle of a flame to become a hazard.

Glass is an ideal material for a candle container due to its non-flammable and non-porous properties. However, glass can still crack if exposed to too much heat. If a glass container were to crack and then break while a candle is lit, hot wax can spill out and expose more wax-soaked wick resulting in a flame which is much higher than was ever expected. There are several ways to help prevent this from happening. First, be sure to purchase glassware which is approved for use as a candle container. The thicker the glass, the less likely it is to crack. Second, always ensure that the proper wick is being used. An over-sized wick will result in a deeper and hotter melt pool of wax. Properly centering the wick within the container will also help to prevent an uneven build up of heat on one part of the container, greatly reducing the likelihood of cracking.

Although following these guidelines will greatly minimize the chances of a problem occurring, nothing is infallible. All candles should be burned on a heat resistant surface far from any flammable objects such as overhead cabinets or draperies. Most importantly, a burning candle should never be left unattended. We recommend that all of our customers follow these safety guidelines and label their products with a caution label which should include proper burning instructions.