Glass jars with lids are some of the most versatile containers, but most people either toss them into the trash or they recycle them all. Some are ordinary, while others include detailed designs, but they are sturdy and can last indefinitely with proper care. They are worth saving, decorating and using for creative gifts. I have saved several glass jars to recycle, but not at the curb.
I plan on decorating the lids and using them to hold gifts for Christmas, birthdays and more. Recycle glass jars for gifts of food, or line them with shredded tissue paper and use them to hold small decorations. They can also be used to hold small articles of clothing. The last jar that I decorated was used to hold a homemade tie dyed t-shirt. The jar was a far better choice for a wrap than a box or gift bag. After the lid was decorated and the glass was painted, it could be used for holding and storing hair accessories, jewelry or anything else that will fit.
Precautionary Statement
Do not paint glass jars that you plan to recycle for culinary purposes. They should not be used to hold food. Also, because of the potential for breakage, they should not be used to hold gifts for children. When looking for ways to recycle jars for children’s gifts, use plastic instead. Unbreakable jars can look just as spectacular when decorated with glass beads, faux gems and more.
Necessary Supplies to Recycle Glass Jars for Gifts
To recycle two glass jars for gifts you will need clean jars and lids, felt fabric to cover the lids, beads of various colors, shapes and sizes, glass paint in colors of your choice and a glue gun. Paint brushes are optional. However, the paint can be poured into the glass gift jars and swirled around to coat the interior. Shredded tissue paper is also optional. Consider saving used tissue paper from gift bags. Recycle the paper by running it through a shredder. It makes a nice nest for breakable gifts.
Procedure
If you plan on painting the jars a solid color or swirled designs, pour a small amount of paint inside. Turn them to evenly distribute the paint. Otherwise, use a paint brush to create detailed exterior designs.
Next, create fabric circles to cover the text on the tops of the lids. Do not worry about the sides. Heat up the glue gun and attach the fabric to the lids. Attach the beads one by one to create eye catching designs. Allow the glue to dry completely before handling the lids.
Partially fill the finished glass jars with shredded tissue paper. Recycle the containers for holding gifts instead of using bags or anything else. The glass jars with beaded lids can be used again and again, either for gift giving or for decoration.
Source: Personal and Professional Home Design and Creative Crafting Experience
