This set was designed, fired, and reduced in stages to achieve a cohesive glaze coloring and effect. Insert the end of an incense stick into the raised center of the bowl. If hole is oversized, break a small portion off end of incense stick off and use to shim or use a tiny bit of candle or beeswax to hold in place. When burning, the ashes will fall down into the bowl. Store your incense sticks with the lighter or matches (not included) in the cup. A complementary pack of incense is included for easy gifting!