DIY: Ten Ways To Recycle Old Jars Into Beautiful Gifts!

Every time you finish a jam, or run across an old mason jar you can easily turn it into a thoughtful gift. Here are ten creative ways to recycle your old jars:

• Make a lovely beeswax candle! First, chop your wax into chunks. Next, melt it in a double boiler then place a wick in the bottom of your jar and pour the melted wax to the brim, letting sit to cool. Now you have a beautiful homemade candle to gift or enjoy!

• For a simple and playful project, fill a jar with colorful holiday candy. This is the perfect gift for a teacher, co-worker or friend.

• A beautiful way to re-use a jar is as a flower vase. You can place this on any table or window sill to lighten up a gloomy day.
• If you have a great recipe for granola (or found one online) share it with friends or family by placing this homemade treat in a mason jar with a ribbon and bow!

• Another fun item for the kitchen is an herb mix. I chose to share Herbs de Provence because it’s easy and goes wonderfully with most recipes. Follow these instructions to make your own jar of herbs.

• Everyone loves hot cocoa on a cold day, so share this yummy treat with loved ones by filling a jar 2/3 of the way with cocoa powder, then topping it off with mini marshmallows and a decorated lid.
• Salt scrubs are a thoughtful present with plenty of room for personalization. Start with a cup (more or less depending on your jar size) of coarse sugar or salt. Next, add 1/4 cup of olive, jojoba, avocado, or almond oil. Lastly spice it up with citrus zest, vanilla extract, flower petals, or your favorite essential oil.

• For your crafty friends a sewing kit in a jar is a great gift! Put some stuffing inside a scrap of fabric and place it around the lid, making a perfect pin cushion. Then, fill the jar with buttons, thread, nettles and ribbon.

• Tea lovers need a place to store their loose leaf elixir, so put some purchased tea into your recycled jar. Tie it off with a colorful bow and gift away!
• Finally, recycle a collection of old jars by turning them into drinking cups. After you’ve finished your hot chocolate or colorful candy, rinse out your jar and re-use it!

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