Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

Recycled Candle Mold & Container Ideas

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milk carton candle moldYou can reuse all kinds of things around the house for candle molds. Milk cartons work great and all you have to do is peel it off when the wax is set.

Paper cups are good and yogurt containers also make a cute shaped mold. I made a beautiful huge candle out of one of my kid’s old slushy cups.

If you’re into grubby candles you can use muffin tins, miniature loaf pans or cake pans and then cake them after and/or decorate them with whipped wax.

For containers, baby food jars are perfect for tea lights or votives. They can be decorated with paint, decoupage and rub on transfers. Broken tiles or fake jewels with grout also make a beautiful mosaic candle holder.

Mason jars are perfect for container candles and so are sturdy old jam jars. Tea cups that you don’t use anymore but can’t bear to throw out also make pretty containers. It’s a great way to use old cups and they still look charming even if they have a chip out of them out on the patio.

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – Pottery Travel Mug Template Set (3 Pieces)

There’s something so satisfying about a handmade travel mug. It’s practical, stylish, and makes your daily coffee or tea ritual feel that little bit more special. With this set of 3 pottery travel mug templates, you can create your own ceramic mugs that not only look professional but also make thoughtful, personal gifts.

What’s Included

This set comes with three different templates for slab-building your own travel mugs. Each template has slightly different proportions, giving you variety in size and style. That way you can experiment until you find the perfect fit for your hand—or make a matching set for family and friends.

Why These Templates Are Worth It

  • Reusable & Reliable: Print and trace them as many times as you want.

  • Practical Design: The angled opening and lid slot make them comfortable and functional.

  • Perfect for Beginners: Templates take the guesswork out of hand-building.

  • Gift-Worthy: A handmade travel mug is a unique, eco-friendly present that anyone would appreciate.

Inspiration for Makers

  • Try a speckled clay body with a matte glaze for a modern, minimalist vibe.

  • Add underglaze designs or decals for a personalized look.

  • Make a full set of mugs in coordinating colors—perfect for a couple or family gift.

  • Pair your finished mugs with a bag of specialty coffee or tea for a beautiful handmade gift set.

Why You’ll Love It

Handmade pottery mugs have a warmth and character that no store-bought cup can compete with. Using these templates makes the process approachable, while still leaving plenty of room for your creativity to shine. And honestly? Everyone I know could use a good travel mug—so why not make one that feels personal and one-of-a-kind?

You can grab the set here: Travel Mugs Set Templates (3 Pieces) on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I share clay tools and templates that make creating both functional and decorative pottery easier and more fun. And if you’re looking for a project that balances everyday use with handmade charm, these travel mugs might be your next go-to.