Anyone who spends time in the kitchen knows about the inevitable abundance of empty glass jars – from small ones that hold curries to medium ones for jam to larger ones for peanut butter. Instead of overwhelming the recycling bin with these toss-offs, why not re-create them into a rustic-chic candle arrangement? It’s easy, cheap and adds an elegant yet unfussy component to the decor.

Thoroughly cleaning the jars is an essential first step. The light from votive candles will shine brightly if the glass is free from labels and glue lines. Add them to soapy dishwater, with labels completely submerged as you wash the rest of the dishes. While the glass is warm and wet, peel or scrape off any markings, using a scouring pad to remove stubborn sections. A spritz of WD-40, which loosens the glue, is a last-resort cleanser.

An eclectic combination of sizes, heights and shapes, each filled with a small candle, adds warm ambiance to any dinner party. For a long table, place them in a centerline from one end to another, varying the sizes. For small or round tables, gather the jars into a centerpiece. I’ve had as many as 20 on my table and as few as four scattered among snacks on the coffee table. I also use the larger ones with scented votives on a mirror-backed shelf in the guest bathroom. (Never use scented ones in the kitchen or dining room; the aroma of dinner should never mingle with the perfume of candles.)

Jar candle arrangements go best with natural wood tables and gently distressed painted surfaces. My favorite style complements to the jars are rattan place mats, white cloth napkins, the good silver, and oversized wine glasses. But I’ve also used them for white-cloth holiday tables and as smaller lights alongside formal candlesticks. For the larger jars, try adding shells or tiny polished stones to create a coastal variation, or fill the jars part way with kosher salt so the candles rest higher in the jar.

The recycled votive lights subtly contribute to the simple spirit of entertaining I try to embrace in my home. They are part of an invitation for guests to be at home, to relax and to forget stuffy formalities.