Give Your Old Jars New Life: Lavender Candles

Old preserving jars have so much potential, so don't throw them away once you've finished the last morsel of jam. Turn them into one of these three gorgeous makes, instead...

Shopping List

• Three jars of various sizes

• Microwavable measuring jug

• Glue dot

• Large pre-waxed candle wicks

• Soya wax flakes, around 500g

• Dried lavender on the stalk

• Lavender fragrance oil, optional

• Twine

Top tip: Try stirring a little candle dye into your melted wax, before you add the scent, to give colour to your finished candles.

Instructions

• Wash your jars thoroughly, then fill each one with water to the point where you want your wax to sit. Pour the water into the measuring jug and then make a note of the level. Let your jug and jars dry completely. Use a glue dot to stick your wick into the centre of each jar.

• Place some soy wax flakes into a measuring jug and melt in a microwave. Add flakes until you have reached the same volume as the water level noted in the previous step. Remove the flowers from most of the stalks, reserving a few for later, and then add a handful per candle to the wax along with a generous dash of fragrance oil, if using. Stir as it cools until the wax thickens enough that the dried flowers are suspended in the liquid. Pour wax into the jar around the wick.

• Allow the candle to set then decorate with twine and a few sprigs of lavender.

Why Lavender & Soy?

We love using soy wax flakes because they burn cleaner and longer than traditional paraffin. When you pair that with dried lavender and essential oils, you aren't just making a light source; you're creating an aromatherapy experience.

Pro Tip: To get those beautiful lavender buds perfectly suspended in the wax (rather than having them all sink to the bottom), wait for the wax to cool and thicken slightly before you pour!

Join me at my next Candle Making Workshop! If you loved this tutorial and want to dive deeper, I host hands-on workshops where we explore:

• Advanced Scent Blending: Create your own signature fragrance.

• Troubleshooting: No more tunnelling or sunken wicks.

• Eco-Friendly Decorating: Creative ways to style your jars for gifts.

It’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon being creative with friends. All materials are provided, and you’ll leave with your own set of handcrafted candles and the skills to make many more.

Click Here to View Upcoming Workshop Dates & Book Your Spot!

Don't forget to follow me for more upcycling tips and floral inspiration!