10 of the Best Mason Jars DIY Ideas

Mason jars were first invented in 1858, by John Landis Mason. These glass jars with a screw-on lid revolutionised the way that food could be stored and preserved. Many people interested in repurposing household items to create new things use Mason jars, as they are attractive and serve a multitude of new purposes. Here are 10 great DIY ideas for using the humble Mason jar.

Vase

One of the simplest ways you can transform a Mason jar is to make it into a vase. Simple but stunning, you can either leave the jar as it is, or add some crafty techniques to provide a unique edge. Paint the vase in vibrant colours and designs for an instant facelift.

Candleholder

Mason jars make fantastic candleholders, and there are lots of ways you can interest and detail beyond just sticking a tea light inside it. Why not string the jar up and hang with a number of other jars to create a stunning effect? Add designs to the jar or give it a seasonal twist.

Sewing kit

If you’re looking for an interesting way to store your cotton reels, needles and pins, then turn a Mason jar into a sewing kit. If you don’t mind a bit of crafty DIY then you could even incorporate a pincushion into the lid.

Arty storage for kids

Create a really tasteful container to store your children’s loose pencils, crayons and pens, etc. Paint the lid a vibrant colour and glue on fun elements to the top such as plastic animals.

Sipping cup

Transforming Mason jars into drinking vessels is a really fun way to entertain guests, and will be a firm favourite with children. Make a hole in the lid for a straw to go through and fill with an enticing drink such as homemade lemonade.

Dried goods container

Used Mason jars look really attractive filled with colourful dried goods such as beans and pulses, so why not get a few of them and line them up in your kitchen for a wonderful display?

Serving bowls

Next time you’re having a dinner party, create a buzz by using old Mason jars to serve up a sumptuous pudding in. Go for something decadent and colourful, topped with lashings of cream. You may even want to personalise the jars so that your guests can take it home as a keepsake.

Protecting plants

If you are nurturing tender vegetable shoots outside then keep old Mason jars and use them to protect vulnerable plants by placing over them. They’ll look very stylish in the garden vegetable plot!

Cocktail shaker

If you’re partial to a cocktail, then put your bartending skills into practice by turning a used Mason jar into a cocktail shaker. Create a container in the lid for measuring and pouring the liquids.

Hanging ceiling light

If you’re looking for a unique lampshade for a ceiling light that adds a contemporary and quirky twist, then why not consider repurposing a Mason jar for the job? You’ll need to create an opening in the lid so that the fitting sits securely.

Amy is a recent graduate who loves to write and get creative when it comes to home interiors and decoration. She enjoys regularly sharing her ideas and opinions in blog posts and works with the team at Vivid Doors, writing for them and coming up with other creative projects.