I wanted to chime in as both reviews missed that the matches can use the ridge of non-glazed pottery at the bottom of the holder. I am sure you can also use the very bottom but it is ridged, so I just used the very narrow strip just at the bottom that rings around the holder. Worked perfectly. Bought the other match striker and really like this just as much because it has the area to leave the match to cool. I really love the matches, too. They are a bit longer than the ones you usually buy and have an awesome strike tip to ensure it lights. I could not tell anything I bought was seconds, so I am thrilled with my shopping haul!