17 Ways to Re-Use Glass Jars for Creative Storage and DIY Projects

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering what to do with those empty glass jars piling up in your kitchen, you’re not alone. Glass jars are super versatile and can serve many practical purposes beyond just holding food. With a little creativity, you can turn them into stylish and useful items for your home.

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This article will explore 17 fun and easy ways to re-use your glass jars. From organizing your space to creating unique decor, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to get started. So, grab those jars and let’s see how you can put them to good use!

1) Store pantry staples

Glass jars are great for storing pantry staples. You can use them for things like rice, pasta, beans, and spices.

They keep food fresh and let you see what you have. Plus, they take up less space than big boxes.

Label each jar to make finding items easier. You’ll love how tidy your pantry looks.

2) Craft candle holders

Using glass jars as candle holders is a fun way to brighten up your space. You can choose any size jar, from small to large, based on your needs.

Start by cleaning the jars well. Once they’re dry, you can paint or decorate them with ribbon, twine, or stickers. This adds a personal touch.

To use the jars, simply place a tea light or small candle inside. You might also fill the bottom with sand or pebbles to keep the candle stable. Enjoy the warm glow and cozy feel!

3) Organize office supplies

Glass jars are great for keeping your office supplies neat. You can use them to store pens, pencils, and markers. This helps you find what you need quickly.

Label each jar for easier access. You can even use different jar sizes for various items like paper clips or sticky notes. It makes your workspace look tidy and adds a fun touch.

Plus, using jars can save space on your desk. Stack smaller jars on top of larger ones or place them in drawers. This keeps everything organized and within reach.

4) Create homemade gifts

You can use glass jars to make thoughtful gifts for friends and family. Fill them with cookies, candy, or homemade jams.

Decorate the jar with ribbons or labels for a personal touch. You can also make a spa jar filled with bath salts or sugar scrub.

These gifts show you care and are a fun way to reuse jars.

5) Mix DIY salad dressings

You can easily mix your own salad dressings using glass jars. Start with oil and vinegar as your base.

Add herbs, garlic, or mustard for extra flavor.

Secure the lid tightly and shake until everything is well combined.

You can store any leftover dressing in the jar for later use.

It’s a simple way to dress up your salads while reusing jars!

6) Hold bathroom essentials

Glass jars are great for storing bathroom items. You can use them for cotton balls, swabs, or even makeup brushes.

Clear jars let you see what’s inside, making it easy to grab what you need.

You can also decorate the jars with labels or paint to match your bathroom’s style. This way, they look nice while keeping everything organized.

7) Decorate with fairy lights

You can create a warm and cozy atmosphere by decorating glass jars with fairy lights. Start by choosing small LED lights that fit inside the jar.

Place the lights inside and twist the wire around the jar’s neck for a cute look. You can even use different jar sizes for variety.

These jars can brighten up any room or outdoor space. Just turn them on when you need a little extra sparkle!

8) Preserve homemade jams

Using glass jars is perfect for storing your homemade jams. They keep your jams fresh and tasty for a long time.

Make sure to clean your jars well before use. You can sterilize them by boiling or putting them in the dishwasher.

After filling the jars with your jam, seal them tightly. Label the jars with the date and flavor. This way, you’ll always know what you have. Enjoy your delicious creations!

9) Craft a piggy bank

You can turn a glass jar into a fun piggy bank. First, clean the jar and remove any labels.

Next, cut a slot in the lid large enough for coins and small bills. You can use scissors or a craft knife, with adult help if needed.

Now, decorate the jar! Use paint, stickers, or washi tape to personalize it. Make it fun and colorful to encourage saving.

Place it in a spot where you see it often. This will remind you to save a little money over time.

10) Create terrariums

Creating a terrarium in a glass jar is a fun and easy project. You can make a small garden inside your home using just a few supplies.

Start with some rocks for drainage at the bottom. Then add activated charcoal to keep things fresh. Next, layer some potting soil. You can plant small plants or succulents in the soil.

Decorate with tiny figurines or colored stones to make it personal. Finally, place your terrarium where it gets some light. Enjoy your little indoor garden!

11) Store craft supplies

Glass jars are great for organizing craft supplies. You can use them to hold buttons, ribbons, or beads.

Label each jar so you can find what you need quickly.

They are clear, so you can see the contents without opening them.

This keeps your space tidy and makes it easy to grab supplies for your next project.

12) Serve cocktails or smoothies

Using glass jars for cocktails or smoothies gives a fun twist to your drinks. You can pick jars of different sizes for a unique look.

You can dress them up with colorful straws or slice fruits to make them eye-catching. These jars are also good for layering smoothie ingredients, which adds to the visual appeal.

Plus, they are easy to hold and carry, making them perfect for parties or outdoor gatherings. Enjoy your drinks in style!

13) Keep nails and screws

Glass jars are perfect for organizing nails and screws. You can see what’s inside easily, and you won’t lose small pieces.

Label each jar to keep things neat. Use a sticky label or a marker to write the sizes or types of nails and screws.

When you need a specific size, just grab the right jar. This makes your projects smoother and less frustrating.

14) Make a vase for flowers

You can easily turn a glass jar into a lovely vase for flowers. Start by cleaning the jar well and removing any labels.

Next, fill it with water and arrange your favorite flowers inside. You can use a single bloom for a simple look or mix different flowers for a colorful touch.

Feel free to decorate the jar with ribbons or paint to match your style. Enjoy your new flower vase!

15) Plant small herbs

Using glass jars for planting herbs is a fun idea. You can grow basil, parsley, or mint right on your kitchen windowsill.

Start by adding some small rocks at the bottom for drainage. Then fill the jar with potting soil and plant your seeds or small herb plants.

Water them a little and make sure they get enough sunlight. Enjoy fresh herbs right at home!

16) Use as a soap dispenser

Glass jars can be great soap dispensers. Just grab a pump lid that fits your jar.

Clean the jar and fill it with your favorite liquid soap. Screw the pump on top, and you’re set!

Not only does it look nice, but using a jar also helps the environment. It’s a simple way to add a touch of style to your sink.

17) Organize makeup brushes

Using glass jars is a smart way to keep your makeup brushes in order. You can choose jars in different sizes to fit all your brushes.

Fill the bottom with some decorative stones or marbles for style. This keeps the brushes upright and makes them easy to grab when you need them.

Label each jar if you have a lot of brushes. This way, you can quickly find the brush you want and keep your space neat.