Upcycling Jars for J in the A to Z Challenge

As a Canner I use jars for everything, especially since I always have them hanging around. And I do like to store in glass instead of plastic so that's a bonus. But what do you do with all of those jars that aren't canning jars, put them in the recycling bin? Well that's one thing but how about prettying them up and using them all around the house.

It doesn't matter if  you have big jars or small jars, decorative jars or simple pickle jars there is an idea for it.  Scroll down to see how others are saving money and adding storage and interest to their spaces. And what's even better these don't generally need more than some basic tools, paint and  a glue gun.

 While a jar is a jar, and it's made for storing something not much you can do about that, the easiest change you can make is with the lids. Adding a knob, finial or even a little plastic animal can turn plain into chic.


 
Ideal Home                                                                                      Torie Jayne

A little paint can go a long way towards creating something new out of something old


Create Craft Love                           Attainable Sustainable


With a small amount of effort you can go all out and create something truly remarkable
How about Apothecary Jars, they can be very expensive but are the rage for all kinds of decor

Say Not Sweet Anne  used jars, bowls and candle sticks to get this great arrangement. I don;t know how many if these items I've seen at yard sales and auctions for very little money.

Love the idea but want a little less Bling- Check out A Diamond in the Stuff version

Candle Sticks, Mason Jars and a Finial- Add a little paint and glue and a bit of nature for inspiration

And last but not least if you are really handy or want a bigger project, try your hand a lighting

You can start with Candles, Luminaries are a great idea, fill the bottom of the jar with your decor of choice, sand, pebbles, stones or marbles, then add your candle. they can be hung, placed on shelves or just set along a path.

Rae posted this tutorial over on A Southern Fairy Tale

Then you can work up to LED or solar lights also as luminaries or as outdoor lighting

Fairy Twinkle Lights? Lightn' Bugs? I'll take them!

Thanks to All Things Heart to Home for this idea

Are you feeling you want a bit more? Here are two ideas for Chandeliers, one is on the simpler side and the other will require a bit of electrical know how.

Here Comes the Sun took an existing light and just added jars. Love the new colored jars Ball is coming out with, look for these blue, green and even purple jars.

IkeaHackers took some everyday items and made some eye catching lighting for the kitchen!

This one used premade light cords but there is a bit of electrical work in tying it all together.

No matter your level of craftiness, there is a jar project just waiting for you! Have you upcycled some jars, used them for storage or just for display? Le me know how it went!

Thanks for stopping by and be sure to check out all of the other bloggers who are doing the A to Z Challenge this April!

Tomorrow my K got started in the Kitchen but it can't be contained! I'll see you tomorrow for more ideas...