With summer BBQs and pool parties right around the corner, there’s no better time to start working on some DIY home décor. And what better way to kick off craft season than by using mason jars? Let’s face it, they are a hot trend we don’t see going away anytime soon. Here are a few ideas to help spark your creativity when working with those empty jars.
String Lights
There are many different ways to brighten up your mason jars (see what we did there?). Our favorite is by using old Christmas lights. Simply cut a hole in the lid of a 16oz jar that is big enough to fit your bulbs. Be sure to secure them to prevent the bulb from slipping out and your jar from smashing onto the ground. Check out this picture guide for examples on how to secure your lights. You can also use zip ties to secure the lights to your porch outside to create a fun look for your next BBQ.
Wanting something a bit simpler? Grab a bunch of tea lights, preferably the ones that require batteries so you don’t have to worry about lighting each individual candle, and place them in each jar. Voila! Pretty and simple outdoor lighting. Try getting more creative by painting the inside of the jar with bright colors. If you decide to paint the inside, only use one coat so that the light can still be visible through the paint.
To-Go Lunches
It’s no secret that packing a healthy lunch for work can be time consuming and sometimes difficult. We found a way to save time without sacrificing health. All you need are a few ingredients and a big ol’ jar.
For a healthy salad: Gather up cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, goat cheese and whatever else you like to top your greens with. Layer each topping into a mason jar. Add spinach, kale or iceberg lettuce to the top and close. When you are ready for lunch, open the jar and flip it over onto a plate for an easy, ready-made salad and top with your fave dressing.
For a seasonal stir-fry: Place diced up chicken on a baking sheet and cook thoroughly. While your chicken bakes, fry your favorite veggies in a pan with olive oil. Let all ingredients cool before placing them in your mason jar (chicken should be put in first with the veggies on top). You can turn this into a salad by adding lettuce to the top. As with the salad, when you are ready to eat just flip over onto a plate and enjoy!
Now, time to THINK BIG! These mason jars aren’t just limited to lunch. Use a smaller jar to create a healthy breakfast parfait. Layer with yogurt, granola and fresh fruit. Just grab a spoon and you will be ready to dig in! These creations will also impress your guests at your next at-home gathering.
Flower Vase
Wanting something a bit simpler? Get artsy with your empty jars to create beautiful and reusable flower vases. Paint the inside with a pastel color to match your favorite petals or bedazzle the outside of the jar with gold flecks for a timeless statement piece. However you decide to decorate, be sure to follow two rules: (1) let everything dry for at least one night before adding water and flowers, and (2) have fun with it!
Kitchen Herb Garden
You probably just finished your flower vase and have decided you want to do something more to bring spring indoors. Why not create your own herb garden? Fresh herbs are great for cooking and are easily maintained indoors. Here’s what you will need:
- Your favorite herbs (try a place like Home Depot with a large selection)
- Empty Mason Jars
- Gravel or Broken Clay Pieces
- Soil
When you have all your herbs (we chose Cilantro, Rosemary and Basil), remove them from their pots. Some places keep their plants in containers that break down with the soil, if this is the case with your plants then you can easily break these up and add them to the soil you are working with. Fill your jars with soil before moving your herbs in. This can get messy so we suggest working outside or using a box to catch any soil that might try and make a break for it. Once your herbs are placed in the jar, add a bit more soil to secure them in place. Add gravel or broken clay pieces on top to help hold the water and keep your plants hydrated. When you have successfully repotted your herbs, label your jars so you know which plant is which. We used chalkboard stickers for a fun look.
We couldn’t list everything but the possibilities with mason jars are endless. And what better way to spend a rainy spring day than by getting crafty (and maybe drinking your favorite Bai). Have mason jar ideas that you want to share with us? Send us your ideas through Instagram or Twitter using @drinkbai and maybe we will give your mason jar activity a try!
