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Nothing says spring like a beautiful bouquet in an even more dazzling vase.

With DIY projects officially pronounced as one of the top trends for 2013, it only makes sense we all incorporate it in our home décor. Everyone has old mason jars rolling around in their pantries (or you can get some very cheaply online). The only logical question is what CAN you do with them. Naturally, your imagination is the limit. I have seen thrifty mums make fascinating redneck wine glasses with mason jars and candle holders, fabulous chandeliers and even fancy cocktail glasses.

Let’s begin with something easier, though. For me the best way to master the thrifty mum’s DIY skills is one step at a time. So, I would like to start with the basics: how to paint mason jars. There are two paths you can take:

  1. Paint the insides of the jars – this will give you a nice glossy finish (just like the one in my pictures);
  2. Paint the exterior of the jars – this is particularly useful if you want to create shabby chick vases with a little bit worn out look. Just like the ones in Mason Jar Crafts Love.

Items You Will Need to Paint the Mason Jars:

  1. Mason Jars (as many as you would like to paint);
  2. Acrylic Paints (your favourite spring colours);
  3. Brushes or Plastic Spoons;
  4. Cardboard/ Kitchen Paper/ Old Magazines or Newspapers.
*Note: If you need to mix the paints to get a brighter colour, you should also get disposable containers. For instance, if you prefer baby pink instead of passionate magenta, you can mix red and white.

How to Paint the Mason Jars:

1. Mix the Paint (if necessary).

In case you plan to colorise several jars with the same paint, you can prepare the mixture in a plastic container. However, this step is only necessary if you aren’t happy with the original shades and hues in your acrylic paint set.

2. Squirt Paint into the Jar. 

Fill about half an inch from the bottom and close the mason jar with its lid.

mason jar crafts

3. Shake the Jar.

This is the most entertaining part of the entire project. Just make sure the paint has covered every inch of the jar before you stop shaking.

You can enlist the help of your little angels. I can guarantee they will have fun assisting mummy. Well, you also risk loosing some of the mason jars in the process but in my opinion it is well worth it.

One simple warning, though, make sure you do this outdoors or in a secure environment as cleaning acrylic paint is not a fun job.

4. Turn the Jars Upside Down.

Once the entire inner surface of the mason jars is covered with acrylic paint, you should open the lid and carefully turn them upside down. Make it on a piece of cardboard, several layers of kitchen paper or on an old magazine. As long as you are certain the paint drips won’t soak in them and get to the surface underneath, you needn’t worry about anything. Leave the jars turned upside down for 24 hours (enough time for the acrylic paint to dry completely).

mason jar crafts

Have fun decorating your brand new vases!

Don’t forget that these painted mason jars are only suitable for decoration. You shouldn’t use them to serve beverages!

 

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  • Interesting! I didn’t think acrylic paint would be the one to use as I thought it would just peel off the glass once it’s dry!!!
    But good to know as I have to try it.

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  • I have some surplus jars, as I’m not making chutney this year, I think I’ve just found what I’ll be doing with them

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  • I love the colours of the mason jars,so pretty with the flowers!

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  • Oh woah very easy! I assumed a primer would be needed

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  • If I use acrylic paint will it stay on the inside of jar if I put water in it. I want to make vases for a rehearsal dinner.

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  • Loved and have shared this project with friends – still so pretty.

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  • These would be great for a DIY wedding i will have to keep it in mind for mine in the future :)

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  • A really great creative idea! Thanks for sharing this!

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  • Love love LOVE this idea! As silly as it sounds, I wouldnt have thought of painting the inside to give the glossy look! Can’t wait to brighten up my place with a few of these!

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  • Love the bright colours a good school holiday project

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  • what a great idea to brighten up your house. so simple, but very effective

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  • What an easy and cost effective way to add some color…thanks

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  • Thanks for this enlighting tutorial, I would have painted to outside of the jar.

    Reply

  • These look absolutely fabulous and so colourful too.

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  • Great idea for my LG birthday!

    Reply

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