3 Simple Mason Jar Crafts for Summer

Mason jars are more than just kitchen storage; they embody an artistic and nostalgic charm that many of us cherish. Their simple design invokes memories of summer picnics, homemade treats, and cozy evenings with family. This summer, why not harness that charm and creativity by transforming mason jars into beautiful crafts? In this post, we’ll explore three easy projects that are budget-friendly and fun. Plus, you’ll find inspiration at every turn.

Craft 1: Mason Jar Lanterns

Materials Needed:

• Mason jars (any size)

• Battery-operated tea light candles

• Wire (for handles)

• Pliers

• Decorative twine or ribbon

• Optional: paint or mason jar stickers for decoration

  
  

Instructions:

1. Clean your jars: Thoroughly wash and dry the mason jars to prepare them for crafting.

   
   

2. Add the tea light: Place a battery-operated tea light candle inside each jar for safety.

   
   

3. Create a handle: Cut about 24 inches of wire. Use the pliers to form a loop around the jar's neck and twist the ends to create a handle.

   
   

4. Decorate the jar: Personalize your lanterns by painting them or adding mason jar stickers. Finish with a touch of twine or ribbon around the neck for a rustic flair.

   
   

5. Display your lanterns: Place them on your porch, hang them from tree branches, or use them to add ambiance to your picnic table.

   
   

Personal Tip: I can still remember lighting these lanterns at summer garden parties with my grandmother. The warm glow they created as the sun dipped below the horizon was unforgettable and fostered a magical atmosphere.

Craft 2: Mason Jar Flower Vases

Materials Needed:

• Mason jars (any size)

• Fresh flowers or wildflowers

• Optional: floral foam (for larger flowers)

• Decorative burlap or lace

• Stapler or glue

  
  

Instructions:

1. Prepare the jars: Clean and remove labels for a clear presentation.

   
   

2. Add floral foam (if needed): If using larger flowers, place a small piece of floral foam at the bottom of the jar to stabilize them.

   
   

3. Fill with flowers: Trim flowers to your preferred height. For a lively bouquet, mix different types of wildflowers.

   
   

4. Add decoration: Wrap burlap or lace around the jar and secure it with a stapler or glue to enhance your arrangement.

   
   

5. Find the perfect spot: These beautiful vases look wonderful on kitchen tables, mantels, or as centerpieces for summer barbecues.

   
   

Personal Tip: As a child, I loved roaming fields with my mom, collecting wildflowers to fill our jars. Each arrangement was a reminder of the beauty of nature inside our home.

Craft 3: Mason Jar Herb Garden

Materials Needed:

• Several mason jars

• Potting soil

• Herb seeds or small herb plants (basil, mint, parsley are excellent choices)

• Small stones or pebbles (for drainage)

• Labels (optional)

  
  

Instructions:

1. Prepare jars: Clean mason jars thoroughly and let them dry.

   
   

2. Add drainage stones: Place pebbles at the bottom of each jar for proper drainage.

   
   

3. Add potting soil: Fill each jar with potting soil, leaving room for planting.

   
   

4. Plant your herbs: Follow seed instructions or transplant small herb plants into the soil. Water lightly after planting.

   
   

5. Label your jars: Use labels to identify each herb, which can help if you want to track their growth.

   
   

6. Find a sunny spot: Place your herb garden on a kitchen windowsill, ensuring they soak up plenty of sunlight.

   
   

Personal Tip: My dad always believed that fresh herbs could transform a meal. Setting these jars on my windowsill brings back fond memories while adding flavor to my cooking.

Mason jars are versatile crafts that spark creativity while infusing warmth into your home. From cozy lanterns to lush herb gardens, these simple projects can brighten up your summer days.

We invite you to share your own mason jar creations. Whether you've made lanterns, vases, or herb gardens, your experiences can inspire others. Together, let’s celebrate the spirit of creativity and the joys of summer in our homes!

Mason jars filled with fresh herbs on a windowsill.

Mason jar lanterns glowing softly in a rustic setting.