We propose the format, decoration and finishing direction, you approve and refine, then we produce to the agreed specification
ODM is the faster route to market. Rather than supplying a complete specification, you tell us the product position and the customer, and we propose a format and finish direction for you to approve.
We run pressed glass production in Shandong, China, with our own tool room. Odm design and development is available on our standard candle jar formats and on formats we develop for you. Here is what the process actually involves, and what you need to decide before we start.
How ODM candle jar works
Odm design and development is applied after the glass is formed and annealed. The sequence matters: decoration applied before annealing will crack, and decoration applied without proper curing will not survive handling. The order is not negotiable, which is why it belongs to the factory rather than to a separate decorator.
| Stage | What happens | Your decision point |
|---|---|---|
| Tooling | Existing format reused, or a new mould developed | Confirm whether your volume is an existing format — this can save weeks |
| Sample proof | Decoration proofed on the actual glass, fired, and sent to you | Approve the proof before production. Colour on screen is not colour on glass. |
| Production | Batch produced to your confirmed specification | Confirm fill volume and weight tolerance in writing |
| Decoration | ODM candle jar applied across the batch | Confirm artwork files, Pantone references, coverage percentage |
| Inspection | Random sampling on volume, weight, appearance, decoration adhesion | Agree the AQL level before the batch ships |
| Packing | 48 pcs per carton, palletised, export packed | Decide standard export packing or retail-ready individual boxes |
What you need to provide
- Artwork. Vector format preferred (AI, EPS, PDF). If you only have a raster file, tell us and we will advise on resolution before anything is cut.
- Colour references. Pantone codes, or a physical sample you want matched. Screen colours and fired colours differ, which is normal.
- Coverage. Full wrap, panel, single logo, or a band. Coverage drives both cost and appearance.
- Quantity. Decoration setup is a one-off. It is worth understanding how it is amortised across your order before you place it.
Where buyers get this wrong
Approving from a screen. A colour that looks correct on your monitor will look different after firing. Always approve a physical proof. We send these before production for exactly this reason.
Not asking about durability. Adhesive labels peel. Decals under a dishwasher eventually lift. If the container will be washed or handled, say so at enquiry.
Ordering a new format when an existing one would do. New mould development is the single largest avoidable cost in glass packaging. Ask first. We have a broad range of standard capacities and most can be adjusted.
Application
Our tool room and production history mean we can usually propose a format close to your requirement without new tooling. That single point often moves a project from months to weeks and removes the largest cost line.
Lead time and cost
ODM candle jar on an existing format is one of the shortest routes we offer. On a new format, mould development dominates the schedule. We quote both together so you can see the difference. Every quotation we send carries a validity period, because glass and decoration costs move.
If this format matches what you are looking at, request a quotation. We reply with pricing, lead time and packing detail — no obligation, and we will tell you honestly if your volume does not suit a particular format.