Mason Jars

Good afternoon Tribers, Anahita here. Since everyone's situation is different, we wanted to give y'all some ideas on how you can create something beautiful and unique with items you may already have in your home. We'll also give you options of alternative things to use in the event you don't have all the items, as well as links to where you can purchase them online. Many stores, such as Michael's, are offering curbside pickup as well as coupons!  I hope you like this one and stay tuned for more from Kristen and myself. 

---

Spring Vase- mason jar, acrylic paint, paint brush, nail file, twine.

Vase on board- mason jar, acrylic paint, paint brush, nail file, hose clamp, scrap wood, and wood stain.

Materials:

• Mason jars
• Old craft paint/stain
• Paint brush
• Rag
• Twine or ribbon
• Sandpaper or nail file
• Hose clamp 
• Scrap wood
• Glue gun (Optional)

These were some of the materials I had laying around the house in random craft boxes.

Wash and dry your mason jar to make sure the surface is clean. Then choose your paint(s) and apply a thin coat. Any acrylic or spray paint will work, I just used an old chalky finish paint I had because I wanted a matte finish. This is where you can get creative. For example, for stripes, use painter's tape to lay out your straight lines. Once it's dry, apply a second coat and let that dry for a few hours. When the paint is completely dry use a nail file (or sandpaper or a sanding sponge) to give it a vintage, distressed look. You can distress it as much or as little (or not at all) as you like. To make our each jar unique this is where can start adding embellishments if you like! Use a glue gun (always be careful with hot tools) to add glitter or flowers or anything else you may find around the house. Get creative! 

NOTE:
* I didn't worry about painting the lip where the lid screws on or the bottom. Mine won't be displayed high, so no one will see the bottom. And once the ribbon is wrapped around the top (or a hose clamp) no one will see the unfinished parts or not-so-straight lines. 
** If you have a problem with streaks or brush strokes, just apply another coat. 

If you just want to make a vase, you're almost there! You just need to wrap the top with some ribbon or twine and you're done! 

I had some scrap wood so I decided to use it as a mount for my vase. 

Use sandpaper or a sanding sponge to create a smooth surface on your wood board. Apply stain or paint using a brush, old rag or paper towel. Allow to dry completely before applying a second coat, if necessary. 

Mark on the board where you want your mason jar. Use the drill to create a small pilot hole (not necessary, but helpful). Then using the drill, screw your hose clamp to the board. Slide the mason jar in and tighten the nut on the side using a flat head screwdriver. You're all finished! Just add flowers!

NOTE:
* I had a few hose clamps already (thanks to my husband). You can order them online or find them at any hardware store. The one I used was about $1.50 at Lowe's. 

I hope you guys enjoyed this! Please comment below or send a message if you have questions or need help! We can't wait to see your finished projects! HAPPY CRAFTING & WASH YOUR HANDS! :)