Get crafty with mason jars

These fun DIY mason jar projects are great for the home or for gifts.

Mason jar melt-and-pour candles

I use fresh goat milk, but cow or soy milk substitutes. Antique jars also make cute candle containers.

Supplies

1 lb beeswax candle block
1/8 cup milk
Wicks and holder tabs
Glue
6 (4oz) jars or 3 (8oz) jars
Thermometer
Double boiler

Directions

1. Melt wax block and milk in a double boiler until mixture is melted and creamy, 160 degrees F.
2. Meanwhile, warm oven and then turn off.
3. Clean and dry jars. Secure holder and wick to bottom of jar with a dot of glue. Place in warm oven. Warming jars before pouring hot wax aids candle setting.
4. Remove warm jars from oven. Pour hot wax into jars.
5. As the wax cools the candle will solidify, holding wick in place. Adjust as required.
6. Allow the candle to cool completely. Trim wick to 1/4 inch.

Mason jar meal: Spicy bean and rice soup

Mason jar meals are lifesavers when you’re short on dinner ideas. They also make great hostess gifts.

Supplies

1 (32 oz) jar 
2 small sandwich baggies
2 Tbsp beef base
2 Tbsp minced onion
1 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp salt
½ tsp cayenne
½ tsp chili powder
¼ tsp coarse ground black pepper
½ cup rice
1 cup black beans
1 cup red beans
½ cup white beans
½ cup yellow beans

Directions

1. Combine beef base and all seasonings in one baggie. Twist to tie.
2. Measure rice into second baggie. Twist to tie.
3. Layer black, red, yellow and white beans in jar.
4. Add baggies to jar and seal.

To prepare soup:

1 (32 oz) Spicy Bean & Rice Soup Jar
1 Tbsp oil
Water
Salt

1. Wash and sort beans. Soak overnight. Rinse and drain well.
2. Place beans in a large stockpot with oil and seasonings. Cover with 2 inches water.
3. Bring to a boil, and then reduce to simmer until beans are tender (2+ hours). Add additional hot water if required.
4. Cook ½ cup rice with 1 cup water and a dash of salt in the microwave or on stovetop. Stir rice into soup prior to serving.

Mason vase

Supplies

1 (32 oz) jar 
Spray paint
Newspaper
Frog lid inserts (optional)

Directions

1. Clean and dry jar.
2. Ensure jar and paint are room temperature for spray-paint application.
3. Turn jar upside-down on newspaper and spray paint.
4. Top with frog lid insert if desired.