We all have them. Those old jars that are sitting around our house, or lurking in the cupboards, just waiting to be used.
They’re too good to toss into the recycle bin, but you’re not exactly sure what you’re going to do with that lone mason jar or cool shaped jar from that salsa you bought one time.
Never fear, we’re here to help. We’ve rounded up several really great DIY projects for upcycled jars. The best part is that they are oh so easy, and really look good.
Kitschy Dinosaur Christmas Ornament – While this actually uses a Christmas ornament that looks like a jar, you could totally make it with a small lightweight plastic jar.
Summer Mason Jar Vases – Distressed chalk paint makes these mason jars perfect for any vintage or cottage style. They’re easy to change to fit your own home decor.
Red, White and Blue Mason Jars – These jars are so cute for 4th of July, and really, any kind of patriotic or Americana decor. They’re fairly easy to make, too.
Succulent Mason Jar with Free Printable – The unique shape of these mason jars make for great planters for plants with shallow roots. The gold adds that little sumtin-sumtin.
Lighted Canning Jar Centerpiece – This centerpiece looks so elegant, and can easily be changed out for the seasons. It’s a totally affordable DIY decorating hack, too.
Painted Watermelon Mason Jar Craft – This painted mason jar just screams summer. It would be so cute for your summer al fresco dining.
Air Plant Hangers – Have you ever wondered what to do with air plants? Well, wonder no longer with this cute and simple DIY planter idea.
Spring Duck Tape Mason Jar Vase – This decorative mason jar craft uses decorative tape instead of paint for a more modern aesthetic. It’s practically mess free, too.
Mosquito Repellent Candles – Make any size mason jar into a mosquito repellent candle with just a few items. These look really elegant for an outdoor party, too.
Watercolor Mason Jar Vases – These painted mason jars look more like stained glass and would look fabulous in a Mid Century Mod or beachy setting.
Mason Jar Glitter Lava Lamp – This is a great project to do with kids, and would also make a great homeschool or after school program project. It looks cool without glitter, too.
Mason Jar Scarecrows Craft – Get ready for fall and Halloween with these DIY Scarecrow mason jars.
Upcycled Snowman Mason Jar – How cute is this jar that’s decorated to look like a snowman? You can create a whole grouping in different sizes.
Painted Mason Jars – Another version of distressed mason jars. This one uses acrylic craft paint instead of chalk paint.
Patriotic Mason Jars – A different twist on the Americana mason jar trend. It would be easy to rework as a different theme in different colors, too.
Sea Glass Mason Jars – A very elegant take on the painted mason jar.
Upcycled Farmhouse Style Jars – This DIY project uses textured jars and acrylic paint. A little secret – we got the jars for this project at Dollar Tree and painted them.
Beach Photo Display Jar – Showcase your beach vacation with this easy to make display jar. All you need is some sand, a few shells or trinkets, and a great photo.
Simple Lanterns – This is a great way to use mason jars for outdoor lighting and ambiance. A handful or two of small rocks, a candle, and a little bit of wire make for a great project.
Upcycled Pineapple Succulent Planter – This is such a cute project. Paint a jar yellow, then plant a succulent in it. Voila, pineapple! This makes a great little gift or an addition to a larger gift.
Looking for other great ideas to do with old jars? Check out these 7 ways to use mason jars.