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What to Do With Empty Whiskey Bottles: 8 DIY Projects

Jun 17, 2025

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A good bottle of whiskey is worth remembering—not just for the flavor, but for the story. Whether it marked a big celebration, a special gift, or just a weekend well spent, that empty bottle deserves better than the recycling bin. Here are eight creative ways to repurpose your empties into functional, stylish crafts that bring those memories back to life.

1. Put Them on Display

Sometimes, the best DIY project is simply giving your bottle a place of honor. Line up your favorites on a shelf in the home bar, mount a ledge in the garage, or cluster them on a mantle as conversation pieces. Group by distillery, region, or style—bonus points for including limited releases or custom-labeled bottles that spark stories.

2. Turn It Into a Lamp

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Transform your favorite bottle into a lamp with a simple DIY kit. Pair it with an Edison bulb or metal shade for a rugged look that works great in a den or office.

3. Build a Whiskey Bottle Torch (& Bug Repellant!)

With just a few parts—copper coupling, wick, and fuel—you can turn your bottle into a backyard torch. To keep the bugs at bay, add citronella to the torch fuel. Mosquitoes hate it—but you’ll appreciate the crisp, lemony scent with hints of grass and wood smoke.

4. Whiskey Soap Dispenser

Add a soap pump to your empty bottle for a dispenser with personality. It’s a perfect touch for a bar sink or guest bathroom.

5. Whiskey Bottle Planters

Cut the bottle and turn it into a planter for herbs or succulents. It’s a great way to bring some green into your space while keeping the whiskey aesthetic alive.

6. Make a Whiskey Bottle Candle

Melt wax into the base of a cut bottle and add your own scent blend—think oak, vanilla, and smoke—for a candle that matches your taste. You can save the top of the bottle for a candle cover!

7. Repurpose for Bar Mixers

Bar mixers and oil and vinegar bottles from whiskey bottles

Fill your bottles with homemade syrups, infused oils, or even filtered water. Clean them well, relabel them, and keep them behind your bar for a polished look.

Raise One More Glass

An empty bottle doesn’t mean it’s over—it means it’s time to get to work. Whether you keep it classic or break out the power tools, these projects give your whiskey bottles a second life and your space a shot of character.