As the saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers,” and what better way to display freshly picked stems than in a craft that can be made by the whole family? These distressed mason jars can be used as flower vases, containers for craft materials (I use mine for loose buttons) or anything else that needs holding. To change it up, use chalkboard spray paint and write a special message to mom with chalk.
Materials
Mason jars ($2-$3 each)
Rubbing alcohol
Foam paint brush (50 cents each)
Plastic cups (6 pack, $2)
Acrylic craft paint ($2 each)
Sandpaper, 150 grit (6 pack, $3)
Sealer, matte or satin finish ($7-$8)
Steps
1. Remove the lids and clean your jars. Wipe the outside with rubbing alcohol and then wash with hot soapy water. Dry completely.
2. Prep your space. Lay down some newspaper or paper towels to protect your workspace. Pour each color of paint that you are using into plastic cups. If you want to mix colors or lighten a color with a white paint, this is the time to do so.
3. Paint your jars. With a paint brush, start at the top and then flip the jar over to paint the bottom half. Don’t worry about messing up the top when you flip it since you will be distressing the paint later. Finish with long even strokes from top to bottom. Once the paint is dry to the touch, apply a second coat.
4. Let the paint dry overnight. You must wait for it to completely dry so the paint adheres to the glass. If you don’t, the paint will start to peel.
5. Distress the jars using sandpaper. Sand around the top threading and bottom first, then continue to the middle and raised lettering of the jar’s logo.
6. Almost done. Finish with two coats of sealer.
Extra credit: If you want to add a little something to the lid, use one piece of scrapbooking paper to cover the insert. Using a cutting mat, place the paper on it and position the lid insert where you want it. Holding the lid insert down firmly, use an X-Acto knife to cut around the lid insert to get the right-size circle. Use Mod Podge to glue the circle cutout to the top of the lid insert.
Source: masonjarcraftslove.com
Contact the writer: dsmaldino@ocregister.com or on Instagram @dennylou
