36 Projects to Repurpose Candle Jars (Brilliant Ideas)

Candles have an undeniable charm that brings warmth and serenity to any space. However, for those of us who indulge in this warm glow often—or perhaps collect candles of various scents—the inevitable collection of empty candle jars can start to build up. Instead of tossing these potentially useful containers, why not repurpose them into something new and exciting? In this blog post, we’ll explore 36 innovative projects to give your empty candle jars a second life.

1. Elegant Planters for Small Plants
With some creativity, candle jars can transform into beautiful planters for your succulents or small leafy plants. Add some soil, a little plant, and watch your windowsill become a mini-garden oasis.

2. Stylish Q-tip Holder
For a chic bathroom accessory, wash out your candle jars and turn them into holders for Q-tips or cotton balls. A stylish way to keep your bathroom organized!

3. Bathroom Votive
Create a cozy atmosphere by placing a tealight in the emptied candle jars and using them in the bathroom for a spa-like ambiance.

4. Homemade Lotion Container
For those who dabble in DIY skincare, candle jars are the perfect vessel for storing homemade lotions or body butter. Just make sure you clean them thoroughly first.

5. Vanity Organizers
Empty candle jars are a boon for tidying up your vanity. Use them to store makeup brushes, lip pencils, or mascara tubes in a neat arrangement.

6. Kitchen Herb Garden
If you’re short on space, candle jars make excellent pots for growing small herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro right on your kitchen counter.

7. Pen and Pencil Holder
Transform your desk environment instantly. Clean candle jars can be used to organize pens, pencils, and highlighters — perfect for a clutter-free workspace.

8. Decorative Sand Art
Get creative with colorful sand or stones by layering them in the jar to create vivid patterns. This can serve as a beautiful decor piece for any room.

9. Gift Containers
Why spend on expensive wrapping when you can use beautifully designed candle jars to present gifts? Fill them with candies, small trinkets, or personal items before gifting.

10. DIY Candle Refill
For the candle lovers, you can reuse the jars by making your own candles—simply melt some wax, add a wick, and pour it into the old jar. Personalize with scents and colors.

11. Spice Storage Jars
In your kitchen pantry, these glass containers serve as excellent spice jars. Chalkboard labels can be added for charm and utility.

12. Desktop Storage System
Reimagine your work area by creating a desktop storage system with various candle jars for paper clips, rubber bands, and other small office supplies.

13. Zero-Waste Compost Jar
Transition to a sustainable lifestyle by using candle jars as compost containers for small food scraps before they hit your larger bin.

14. Artistic Paintbrush Holder
An artist’s paintbrushes need a safe haven—candle jars can help organize paints and brushes after the pigments have been applied.

15. Homemade Scented Potpourri
Create potpourri with dried flowers, essential oils, and spices, then store it in a candle jar for a beautiful and fragrant accent to any room.

16. DIY Snow Globes
Fun for the kids, transform candle jars into enchanting snow globes with a few miniature figurines and some glitter in a water-glycerin mix.

17. Chandeliers or Pendants
If you’re into more elaborate projects, combine several jars to create custom lighting fixtures like chandeliers that dazzle any visitor.

18. Miniature Terrarium
Craft a miniature desert or jungle by creating a terrarium with small rocks, sand, and miniature plants or even figures.

19. Sewing Kit Jar
Transform it into a sewing kit by filling it with threads, needles, and buttons. Add a pincushion to the lid for easy accessibility.

20. DIY Photo Frame Holder
Insert or wrap photos around candles within the jar. This serves as a cute and artistic way to display treasured memories.

21. Matchstick Holder
Keep your matches safe and accessible by storing them in a jar. For added style, place a striking strip on the edge to make it easy to light a match directly from the jar.

22. Treat Jar for Pets
Keep your four-legged friend’s treats fresh in a repurposed candle jar. They don’t have to know it’s just an elegant jar!

23. Cookie or Brownie Mix Gift
Layer ingredients for cookies or brownies within the jar, attach the recipe, and you’ve got a delightful homemade gift.

24. Emergency Kit Jar
Create an emergency kit by filling a jar with band-aids, sanitizer, or any other miniature essential. Keep it handy in the car or at home.

25. Loose Change Container
For those stray coins that seem to show up everywhere, use an empty candle jar as a designated change collector.

26. Oil Diffuser
Add essential oils and reed sticks into the jar for an easy homemade oil diffuser that will distribute pleasant aromas throughout a room.

27. Deodorizer for the Fridge
Fill a jar with baking soda and a few essential oils to naturally deodorize your fridge, maintaining freshness efficiently.

28. Yarn Holder
Crafters will appreciate how jars can store balls of yarn, keeping them tangle-free and easily accessible through the top opening.

29. DIY Gemstone Lamp
Wrap strings of LED lights and decorative gemstones within candle jars to create a magical lighting effect that can illuminate dark corners.

30. Tea Storage
Use the jars to store loose-leaf tea blends. Not only will they look beautiful, but they will also keep the aromas intact.

31. Hair Tie Holder
Loose hair ties tend to go missing. An empty candle jar can act as the perfect container to keep them all in one spot.

32. Sand Timer Craft
For a school project or as a decoration, fill two jars with sand, connect the tops, and create a makeshift hourglass.

33. Homemade Sugar Scrub
Soften the skin with a DIY sugar scrub, and use your empty jar for an aesthetically pleasing storage solution.

34. Bird Feeder
Turn your outdoor space into a bird haven by hanging candle jars filled with seeds. Little visitors will have utility and style!

35. Keepsake Container
Beautifully crafted candle jars make ideal keepsake containers for storing cherished small items, such as souvenirs or family heirlooms.

36. Patio Lanterns
Create ambient lighting outdoors by filling jars with fairy lights or placing tealights inside and using them as lanterns.

By repurposing candle jars, you’re not only reducing waste but also adding personal, decorative touches to your living space. Whether purely decorative or downright practical, using what you already have in creative ways is a rewarding and eco-friendly approach to home decor and storage. Dive into these projects, and let the repurposing begin!