Choosing the container is a key step in making a handcrafted candle. Far more than a simple holder, it has to be safe, withstand heat and show off your creations. Depending on the material you choose, the look, the durability and even the scent experience can vary.
Now that you know all the secrets of candle customisation, here is how to choose the perfect vessel for your scented or decorative candles.
Choosing the material for your candle containers: glass, metal or concrete?
Every material has its own characteristics. Glass, metal or concrete: each has advantages and limitations that are worth knowing before you make your choice.
Glass candle jars: a durable, attractive choice
Glass is probably the most popular material for handcrafted candles. Its transparency shows off the wax, the dyes and decorative inclusions such as dried flowers or glitter. A glass vessel can be recycled, or cleaned and reused, which makes it a sustainable option. It also suits many different styles: amber glass brings a retro touch, a frosted jar suggests elegance, while plain clear glass highlights the purity of the wax.
However, opt for thick, heat-resistant glass to avoid cracks while the candle burns. And bear in mind that this material, however sturdy, can still break if knocked.
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Metal candle tins: practical and modern
Metal wins people over with its sturdiness and practicality. Unlike glass, it will not break, which makes it ideal for shipping or for collections designed to travel. It comes in many finishes – matt, glossy, coloured or hammered – so you can give your candles a modern edge or plenty of character. There are also containers fitted with a pouring spout, perfect for making massage candles.
The lid, often supplied with this type of container, is a further plus: it protects the candle from dust and helps the fragrance keep its intensity for longer. However, the sizes available are usually more limited, and the look will be more understated than with glass.
Concrete candle containers: authentic, raw design
Concrete has become a very fashionable choice for premium handcrafted candles. With its raw, mineral look, it brings a contemporary touch and goes perfectly with modern interiors. Each piece is often unique, which adds a strong handmade feel.
This material is sturdy and reusable, but it must be protected with a suitable sealant so that the wax does not seep into its pores. Its weight may also call for a few precautions, such as adding a cork or felt coaster to protect delicate surfaces.
The different styles of candle container
The vessel does more than hold the wax: it defines the candle's visual character and the feeling it creates once lit. Each type of container shapes the atmosphere of a room and can suit different moods
Classic clear glass containers
Clear glass is a timeless classic. It shows off the natural colour of the wax and lets you play with decorative inclusions such as dried flowers, glitter or dyes. It is the ideal choice for makers who want to put their creativity on display. This type of container blends easily into every interior style, from the most modern to the most traditional, while creating a bright, elegant ambience. Make sure the glass of your container is thick enough to withstand the heat of the molten wax.
Patterned containers
Whether the patterns are floral, geometric or seasonal, these vessels add strong visual impact. They are perfect for special occasions such as Halloween, Christmas, Valentine's Day or weddings, and for eye-catching limited collections. These containers turn the candle into a genuine decorative object, even when it is not lit.
Amber containers
Amber glass gives off a soft, subdued light, instantly creating a cosy, intimate atmosphere. Paired with woody or spicy fragrances, it heightens the feeling of warmth and comfort. This type of container is very popular for sophisticated collections or to add an elegant touch to home décor.
Good to know: amber glass has different thermal properties from clear glass, in particular a greater ability to absorb thermal radiation. As a result, more heat builds up inside the container, which reaches higher temperatures. This can cause more pronounced internal overheating than with clear glass, increasing the risk of weakening the glass.
We therefore advise against using a wick that is too large with this type of container, to limit any risk of breakage. To ensure the best possible burn, it is essential to choose a suitable wick, as listed on the product page for the glass in question.
Coloured containers
A vessel tinted in bright or pastel colours is a great way to add originality. Colour brings a burst of energy and turns the candle into a real decorative accessory that instantly catches the eye.
Concrete containers
With their raw, mineral look, concrete containers have become a premium option, very much in vogue in contemporary décor. Their appeal lies in their sturdiness and individuality, as every piece has a unique finish. Their understated, designer style particularly suits modern or industrial interiors. Being durable and eco-responsible, they also meet the growing demand for environmentally friendly objects. Our concrete containers come with a protective cork base so they will not scratch your surfaces.
The essential rules for successful homemade candles
Choosing the container is a decisive step in making your scented candles or wax melts. But beyond looks, a few technical precautions are essential to guarantee safety, durability and a professional finish. Here are the must-do steps before and after pouring.
Cleaning: for a spotless container
A clean, completely dry vessel is the foundation of a successful candle. The slightest trace of dust, moisture or greasy residue can stop the wax from adhering properly and compromise the burn. So before pouring, take the time to wash your containers thoroughly in soapy water, whether they are candle glasses, ceramic jars or metal containers.
Preheating: gently warm the vessel
A little pro tip: preheat the container. Bringing the vessel up to a gentle temperature (60°C maximum) prevents thermal shock, which weakens glass and sometimes causes hairline cracks invisible to the naked eye. It is a simple step, but a decisive one for a smooth, long-lasting finish without wet spots. Simply go over the container with a heat gun for a few seconds, moving in circles around and above it, 5–10 cm away. If you do not have a heat gun, you can put your container in the oven, provided the material allows it, as glass, metal and concrete do. Remember, the aim is to warm your containers, so do not go above 60°C.
Filling your candle
For a quality candle, wax should make up about 80% to 90% of the total composition.
For example, for a 200 g candle, fragrance will usually account for 7% to 10% of the formula. If you use an additive such as stearin, it will make up about 10% of the candle.
Allow time to set
Once the wax is poured, let your candles cool at room temperature, in a stable spot on a flat surface. Do not move the vessel during this time: this promotes even crystallisation, prevents cracks from forming and ensures a solid candle.
Choosing the right candle jar: a question of style and safety
Choosing a container is much more than a technical decision: it is a truly creative act, just like choosing your candle mould. The vessel becomes an extension of the candle, revealing its character and shaping the feeling it creates. Minimalist, festive, sophisticated, bold or contemporary, every style tells a story and creates a unique atmosphere.
