I have found a great craft in altering Mason Jars. These are glass jars that are typically used for canning. I have made several myself and have used most in gift giving. This guide will give step by step instructions for making one and also give ideas on how you can use your completed project.

First you will need to get some mason jars. You can find them at craft stores, flea markets, and yard sales. You may even have a few in your basement! These jars come in a variety of sizes and any size will be fine.

Now, here is a list of supplies you may want to have on hand:

• Your Mason Jar
• Acrylic Paints
• Mod Podge or similar decoupage Medium
• Tissue Papers or Rice Papers
• Yarn Fibers
• And any other embellishments you like

1. The first step I take is to pick a theme and paint the jar accordingly. For example I did a jar with an oriental theme and painted the jar a deep green and tan.
2. Let the paint dry. This will not take too long as acrylics dry rather quickly.
3. Apply your papers, stickers, etc and coat with a thin layer of glue.
4. When you have decorated the glass part completely, cover the surface with your decoupage medium.
5. While you let that dry, you can start working on the lid. You can paint it, cover it with more papers, or leave it as is.
6. Now, for a festive look, take the yarn fibers (about 3 lengths) and glue them around the outer edge of the lid. Let the lenghts dangle down like ribbons.

Ok, now you have the finished project. Looking pretty good, but what the heck do you do with it???? Here are a few ideas:

• Cut a slit in the top of the lid and use it as a bank
• Fill it with dry ingredients from a recipe. Attach the recipe card to the dangling yarn fibers. Use as a gift!
• Fill with a larger candle for a great illumination.
• Fill it with handwritten coupons for a loved one.
• Use it as a coffee or tea cannister

There are so many different uses! I'm sure you will come up with even more.