Candles are a great addition to any home. Candle light itself adds warmth, but in addition the candles themselves are a decorative item even when they’re not lit.  I’ve found some  ideas for candle projects at Candle Making Crafts. Here’s a project you can use to turn plain votive candles into decorative items.

There are several good things about this project. For one, you can make any number of variations. By changing the type of decorations you use you can create candles appropriate for any season or occasion.

For another, is very economical. You’re going to use votive candles in canning jars, so there’s no big investment and materials. Even if you buy new canning jars, they’re inexpensive. Better yet, you probably have some jars at home that you can use for free.

Commercially sold jam often comes in very attractive jars that you can use for this project. Garage sales are another source of inexpensive canning jars.

You’ll find inexpensive plain votive candles and glass holders for them at discount stores.

The basic idea with this project is to partially fill the canning jar with decorative material and then placing a votive candle within it. You can also decorate the outside of the jar. For example, you can attach surface decorations, paint it or tie a ribbon around it.

You can use a variety of materials in the jar. A common one is to use potpourri. This is not only visually attractive, but it adds the scent of the potpourri as well.

Since you may be using somewhat flammable material to fill the jar, it is essential that the votive is inside its own glass holder. Do not use a votive candle or a tea candle without a glass holder.

Also keep the decorative material underneath the candle holder and don’t let the candle burn all the way to the bottom. And as always, never leave the room with a candle burning.

The candle for this project is one that you buy. I suspect you’ll probably want to make your own candles sooner rather than later. You’ll find excellent basic instructions at: How to Make Your Own Candles. Not only will you find great instructions right on that page but you can sign up for a free candle making mini course that’s very informative and helpful.

And if your wondering what equipment might be involved in the hobby of candle making, you’ll find answers at Candle Making Equipment.

I’m sure you’ll find candle making to be a fun and rewarding hobby. I encourage you to give it a try.