You
have plenty of time not to get
yourself in a jam and instead work on
some DIY Christmas gifts before the month is up. A popular trend this year for homemade
exchanges will be centered around the Mason jar.
“Fill
‘er up” applies to more than just the gas tank.
Turn a simple Mason jar into a modern, thoughtful Christmas gift fitting
for kids, neighbors, teachers, family, and friends. Showcase half of your baking skills by
layering the dry ingredients of a cookie, cake, or brownie recipe in a mason
jar, decorate the outside with a ring of craft paper or fabric, and tie it off
using twine with a recipe card with all the details attached. Be sure and add a cute “To” and “From” tag as
well. If you’re sharing an old family
recipe, that makes it even sweeter.
Use
a Mason jar like a twist on a gift box by using one or a small bunch to house a
gift of art supplies for the crafty one or kitchen utensils for the cook. Decorate the jar’s exterior with layers of
craft paper rings, ribbon, and string, or decorate with paint by spray painting
the inside of the jar, making sure the outside stays clean. To have a monogram show through, use a glue
stick to carefully adhere one to three letters you’ve printed and cut out to
the inside of the jar, then spray paint the inside. When it dries, carefully peel away the letters
to reveal the outlines in the clear glass.
Pop in paint brushes, sponge brushes, colored pencils or markers, or go
the route of spatulas, spoons, and kitchen shears.
Mason
jars of varying sizes can also be used like a snow globe. Use your crafting skills for this one. Create a mini outdoor scene on the underside
of the lid, affixing your items with hot glue.
You could find inspiration in the miniatures’ section of a craft store,
like a little Christmas tree, other trees with a park bench, or a little
house. You could even use some fake
grass for the yard of a miniature house or moss for the floor of a forest. Add a scoop of the sprinkley kind of fake
snow or bigger pieces of glitter, twist the jar onto the lid carefully, and
test your snow globe effect (once the glue is firmly set) by gently turning the
jar upside down and back – no water needed.
If you’re happy with your design, use a little hot glue along the rim to
secure the lid permanently.
Your
options are only limited by your imagination . . . and your online searches for
more ideas. Plant a succulents garden in
a jar and give as a no-fuss green thumb gift for Grandma. Make batches of cookies and give them away
one stack at a time in jars for your neighbors, co-workers, or the kids’
teachers. Wow the kids with brightly
colored hard candy or lollipops in their stocking. Layer in banana pudding, homemade pie, or
even a layered green salad to give a tasty treat straight from the fridge or to
serve at a gathering.
A
single Mason jar can be transformed into any number of thoughtful, simple
gifts. Add an extra layer of homemade
sweetness when you share your creations this Christmas.
DesignInMind column; appeared in the Valley Morning Star December 1st.
