Painting Mason Jars

Mason jars are instantly charming to use as drinking glasses, planters, or as holders for gifts, dressings, and candles.  They are also easy to find at Salvation Army or a good hand-me-down to ask family members, friends, or church members for.

Painting Mason jars is an easy craft for a rainy (or snowy) day and requires a short list of materials:

- Spray paint (easier) or acrylic paint and a brush
- Mason jar(s)
- Newspaper for setting jars on to paint and dry

The steps to creating these fun decorations are equally simple:

1. Set out newspaper on a flat surface.  
2. Set the jar upside down on the paper and spray (or brush) paint in a single, even coat.  Let dry for about 5 minutes.  
3. Add at least one or two more coats until paint looks solid and even and is the shade of your liking.
4. Let dry over night (or at least 8 hours) and then you can be creative with its use!  I use mine as bookends, pen holders, and flowerpots.  They also make great gifts when used as a flowerpot, to hold a back-to-school survival kit stuffed with pens, pencils, and bookmarks, or as a pretty jar.  

Note: Once painted, do not use for food!