Do you love mason jar crafts? I’m obsessed with the countless ways to decorate jars; here are some DIY projects using glass jars I think you’ll love.
Are you wanting to try some creative jar decorating ideas? Of course you are – they are all the rage right now! There are so many things I love about mason jars, and one of the biggest is that they are really easy to craft with.
I’m talking about instant gratification. I’ve done a few projects with mason jars and loved the results.
Tips for Crafting with Mason Jars
A lot of people are intimidated by working with glass of any sort, but there’s no reason to be.
It’s basically the same as working with other craft surfaces, you just have to be more careful since the likelihood of breaking is obviously increased.
Mason jar crafts are perfect for decor and gifts – those are my two favorite uses. Making decor with mason jars is pretty awesome, especially when you can dig jars out of the recycling bin (hello, free!).
I also love giving gifts in mason jars because the packaging is also the gift. Me likey giving and receiving mason jar gifts. If you feel that way too you’ll love our Christmas mason jars, by the way.
Preparing the Jars
Whether you like painted jars or are using Mod Podge, etc. you’re going to need to prepare the jars first. Remove labels using one of our DIY sticker remover methods.
Mason jars tend to get greasy fingerprints on the outside from handling, so I recommend washing them with mild soap and water. You can also use rubbing alcohol and a cotton ball.
Painting the Jars
You can paint mason jars before decoupaging over the top. If you use any sort of paint, it should be either a spray paint (like a primer) or an acrylic paint made for glass.
This means the paint needs to be an enamel or multi surface paint. You should definitely make sure to clean the jars before painting if you want it to stick.
You can also DYE mason jars with Mod Podge and drops of food coloring. Learn how to do that here. I also have a post so you can learn how to Mod Podge on glass.
Mod Podge is an acrylic product so it works with/over the top of acrylic paint just fine. You can also use chalk paint or milk paint.
You can use just about any Mod Podge formula with mason jars. Glass is shiny by nature, so Gloss is the most commonly used on mason jar decor.
However, you can always use the Matte or Satin formulas if you are looking for a bit of a different finish.
Using Lights
You can absolutely use tea lights for mason jar lights – real or battery powered. Just keep in mind that the Mod Podge should be on the outside of the jar if you are planning on using real tea lights.
The glass will act as a barrier and, while the jar might get a little hot, it’ll be fine and nothing will melt (PS – Mod Podge is non-flammable, but it can melt when exposed to direct flame or heat).
You can also use Christmas lights or fairy lights in your mason jar decor. They look great!
Special Techniques
Remember that both the tops and bottoms of mason jars are curved. If you are going to Mod Podge mason jars completely from top to bottom, you’re going to need to place darts in the paper or fabric (similar to a sewing pattern).
To adds darts means to cut a triangle in the paper or fabric and then fold over. You can see in the image here.
Besides the above, there’s not much else you need to do besides experiment and have fun! In fact, here are 60+ unique ways to decorate mason jars. Which one inspires you the most?
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Sheet Music Centerpieces
Make mason jar votives using Mod Podge and some other simple supplies. Perfect for party or wedding.
These mason jar toppers are a great idea for all sorts of applications – kids' parties, room decor, craft rooms, and even gifts! Would I have these in my office? Of course!
I love that you can make these pretty lamps in any colors you like! Assembling a lamp is easy, and you're going to love trying this with a variety of jar styles and colors.
Making candles in mason jars couldn't be easier or satisfying, especially when they smell good and look great too! These are great gifts; you'll want to make a ton of them.
Try this mason jar to wind chimes upcycle, just in time for spring and outdoor decor. There will be some cutting and drilling of glass, but don’t fear, you can do this!
There are beachy themed jars and then there are beachy amazing jars! I would say this project falls into the latter category. I simply love the fishnet wrap.
Ashley attached the scraps of paper using a sewing machine, then decoupaged directly to the jar. This paper piecing method is so unique and I love it for Mod Podge mason jars.
Combine Mod Podge and drops of food coloring to dye the jars – then add solar lights on top. What a perfect garden decoration, or for a walkway leading up to a house.
Are you sick of sitting outside and enjoying the out-of-doors with all of your insect friends? These are perfect for keeping the bugs away, and they look good too!
Where is that book of restaurant matches? Who knows! Make sure you always have them on hand (and can light them) with this simple project. Great for taking camping.
Learn how to inexpensively transform a basic vanity bathroom light into a farmhouse style light using mason jars and spray paint. It's easier than you think!
Learn how to make DIY bath salts with your favorite essential oils and baking soda! Decorate the mason jar container and add a scoop for a unique gift.
Do you love to watch the birds? The best way to attract them to your backyard is to feed them! Learn how to make your a cute mason jar bird feeder with this easy and inexpensive tutorial.
These mummy mason jars are so fun to make for Halloween – both kids and adults will love them! Learn how to make these jar luminaries in a few easy steps.
Make Halloween mason jar lanterns that look like Dracula, a ghost, and a jack o' lantern! These are the perfect holiday decor craft for both kids and adults.
Maybe you get your tree in a station wagon – but I love that Linda gets hers in a Jeep! This snowglobe is easy to create and is perfect Christmas decor.
Betty Dehart
Wednesday 16th of October 2024
My favorite, love the ideas, have used many...
Linda @ Mason Jar Crafts Love
Thursday 6th of March 2014
Thank you so much for including my Mod Podge pink mason jars here!!!
:) Linda
Denise Key
Tuesday 18th of February 2014
These are beautiful! Love to mod podge mason jars these just gave me some new ideals! Thanks for sharing!
Creative Mind
Tuesday 18th of February 2014
so much fun! cute ideas :)