Choosing the Perfect Vessel for Your Candles

Imagine a wide range of options, like beautiful glass jars, charming tin containers, sturdy cement pots, and even lovely ceramic holders. 

With so many choices available, it's normal to feel a little overwhelmed. But don't worry, I'm here to help! I want to take you on an enjoyable journey into the world of candle vessels. 

In this article, I'll guide you step-by-step in choosing the perfect vessel for your candles. We'll focus on safety and making your candles look fabulous. So, let's dive right in and discover the secrets of selecting the best vessel for your candle creations!

Safety First, Always

When it comes to selecting a candle vessel, safety should be your top priority. 

Whether you plan to sell your candles or give them as gifts, it's crucial to avoid any potential risks like a house fire. 

To ensure safety, opt for glass jars that can handle heat effectively. If you prefer materials like cement or wood, make sure they have been properly sealed to prevent oil and wax absorption, which could pose a fire hazard. 

While some people use wood bowls as candle vessels, I recommend exercising caution and ensuring they are adequately sealed to prevent any unfortunate incidents.

Aesthetics Matter

The appearance of your candle plays a significant role in attracting customers or recipients. 

The vessel serves as the first impression, so it should be visually appealing and entice people to pick it up and take a whiff. 

Consider your target market and the style you wish to convey. Are you going for a rustic and country look, or do you want to attract those seeking a more luxurious and elegant experience? 

Understanding your audience will help you narrow down the vessel options that align with your vision.

The Right Match for Your Style

Now that you have an idea of the style you want to achieve, it's time to find a vessel that matches it perfectly. 

Let's explore some options from our selection at Village Craft & Candle. 

For a rustic or economical vibe, you might consider libraries, flints, ambers, or Madisons.

While these vessels can be more budget-friendly, you can enhance their appeal with personalised labels and lids. 

On the other hand, if you're aiming for a luxury line, our Lux jars or the Terra jars, exude elegance and beauty. 

Remember, this is just a small sample of what we offer, so explore all the possibilities to find your ideal match.

Size Matters – Balancing Cost and Design

The size of your vessel plays a crucial role in determining the cost and overall aesthetic of your candle. 

Larger jars, such as 15-ounce ones or above, will require more wax, fragrance oil, dye (if used), and possibly larger wicks compared to smaller options like our 106-millilitre library jar. 

It's essential to consider the final cost you want to achieve when selecting a vessel. Keep in mind that the jar's cost, in addition to the supplies, will contribute to the overall expense. 

Choose a size that strikes a balance between your desired cost and the visual impact you want to create.

The Finishing Touch – To Lid or Not to Lid?

While lids are not a necessity, they add that extra touch of completion and beauty to your candle. 

A candle without a lid will still function perfectly fine, but a lid elevates its overall presentation. Think of it as the cherry on top! 

Moreover, when customers or gift recipients remove the lid, they are greeted with an instant burst of fragrance, which can be a compelling selling point. 

Therefore, I highly recommend considering a lid for your candles. However, the choice ultimately rests with you, and it won't affect the candle's functionality.

Wick Selection and Vessel Size

When determining the number of wicks for your candle, the size of the vessel is a critical factor. 

For instance, a smaller jar like the one we mentioned earlier is suitable for a single wick. Larger vessels, especially those with a diameter exceeding four inches, generally require multiple wicks to ensure proper burning. 

It's essential to select your vessel before choosing the wick, as the wick size depends on the vessel's dimensions. 

If you're aiming for a three-wick candle, make sure your jar accommodates it appropriately. 

Start with multiple wicks when the vessel reaches around three to four inches in diameter to maintain optimal burning conditions.

The shape of the jar also plays a role in wick selection. For example, if your jar is thinner at the top than it is on the bottom, you will need to find a happy medium between the 2 diameters. If you wick for the skinnier top, then there might be unmelted wax around the edges of the wider bottom. On the other hand, if you wick for the wider bottom, then it might be too much heat for the skinner top. Finding middle ground that you are happy with will require some testing on your part.

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect vessel for your candles is an exciting journey that requires careful consideration. 

Remember to prioritise safety, choose vessels that align with your desired aesthetics, strike a balance between cost and design, and consider the benefits of using lids. 

Additionally, match the wick selection to the size of your chosen vessel to ensure an optimal burning experience. 

Now that you have these essential tips, go ahead and explore the wonderful world of candle vessels! 

Happy crafting!

Note: For a more detailed visual guide on selecting the perfect vessels for your candles, I highly recommend checking out our video titled "Choosing the Perfect Vessels for Your Candles."