Looking for a unique way to store and light your matches? Follow these simple steps to create an adorable, upcycled match holder with a built-in striker for easy and convenient use.
It’s an easy project that adds a decorative touch to your tabletop.
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Let’s Normalize Upcycled Crafts
My father began calling me “the Scavenger Martha Stewart” when I was 22. I had gathered pinecones from the balcony of my first solo apartment to make crafts and thought it was a genius idea.
It’s a habit (and nickname) I embrace… I’ve collected wild plums to make jelly, fall leaves for wreaths, and empty containers to make glass spray bottles.
It’s rewarding to make something from (practically) nothing while reducing the amount of waste created by crafts.
It’s a win for the environment and a win for your wallet!
If you’re a fellow scavenger (or avid recycler), you’ll love this easy recycled craft for Valentine’s Day or anytime.
Upcycled Match Holder
I keep noticing charming match containers for sale everywhere, from Anthropologie to Etsy.
These stylish containers are perfect to pair with a candle for a simple gift and would make adorable wedding favors!
But… while I adore the aesthetic, shelling out $38 or even $8 for matches doesn’t quite align with my budget.
Fortunately, crafting your own DIY match holder is a breeze! This article provides detailed instructions and free printable labels.
Match Holder Supplies
You’ll need a few simple supplies to make your own stylish match jars.
The project starts with a small, match-sized container. Look for a small glass bottle from the recycling bin (I used old spice jars) or upcycle an empty pill container for waterproof match storage.
Then gather these supplies:
- Small, empty bottles
- Printable label paper (buy it here)
- Match striker (cut the strike pad from a book of matches or use fine grit sandpaper)
- Free Printable Match Labels (click to download the PDF)
- Scissors
- Glue or permanent double-sided tape
- Wooden matches
Match Holder Instructions
- Wash and dry the bottle and lid.
- Download the free printable Match Holder labels and print on self-adhesive labels.
- Cut the desired label to size and attach it to the front of the jar.
- Cut a small match strike pad from an old box of matches or a small piece of sandpaper. Attach it to the cap, back, or side of the jar using glue or double-sided tape.
- Fill the jar with matches.
- Screw the lid onto the container.
Project Tips
- You can easily remove labels in three ways:
– Heat the label with a warm hair dryer for several minutes before peeling.
– Scrub the label with a mixture of baking soda or table salt and dish soap.
– Apply a bit of DIY oil polish cleaner to dissolve the adhesive. - Print on water-resistant labels to make the jars more durable.
- 400-grit wet/dry sandpaper from the hardware store makes a great match striker.
- Buy self-adhesive match striker pads to simplify the craft if you’re making a lot of holders.
- Use recycled pill bottles to make waterproof matches for camping or an emergency kit. (Be sure to attach the strike plate inside the cap.)
- Pair the matches with a soy candle for an easy housewarming or Valentine’s Day gift.
- Follow these instructions from In My Own Style to make a larger, painted match jar.
Project FAQ
A match striker is a surface that ignites a match when it is struck against it. It’s used to light the match by creating friction. You can cut the strike pad from a book of matches or use fine-grit sandpaper as a match striker for this DIY match holder.
Safety matches are the type of matches that need a striker. They have a special surface that ignites when rubbed against a rough surface. Wooden safety matches are the ideal type to pair with this DIY match holder for lighting convenience.
For the match holder project, it’s easiest to use printable label paper or self-adhesive labels. You can also print on water-resistant labels to make the jars more durable or coat the labels in Mod Podge after attaching them to the jars.
And That’s It…
Craft a match holder with a built-in striker to conveniently keep matches accessible on a table. It’s an easy project that combines functionality with a decorative touch. When lighting a candle, just open the jar, grab a match, and strike it on the jar to light. After the match jar serves its main purpose, the holder adds style to your tabletop.
Love easy, free printable crafts? Check out these Coffee Gifts for teachers or any coffee lover.
You can discover additional recycled crafts for Valentine’s Day here. Also, visit the free printables page for more Valentine’s Day ideas.
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