Empty jam and pickle jars are easy to collect and even easier to throw away, but with a little paint, ribbon and a protective seal, they can become decorative storage containers worth keeping on display. This beginner-friendly upcycling project uses common household and craft materials, and the finished jars are perfect for organising craft supplies, holding kitchen essentials or adding a handmade touch to a shelf or desk. Below you will find everything you need, five simple steps and a few tips for a neat, durable finish.
Materials Needed to Upcycle Old Glass Jars
- Empty glass jars (jam jars, pickle jars, etc.)
- Acrylic paint or spray paint
- Paintbrushes or foam brushes
- Decorative ribbons, twine, or lace
- Mod Podge or clear craft glue
- Optional: stickers, stencils, or washi tape
- Scissors
- Newspaper or protective covering for your workspace
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Decorative Storage Jars
1. Prepare Your Jars
Start by thoroughly cleaning your glass jars to remove any labels, glue residue, or dirt. Soak them in warm soapy water for 10-15 minutes, then peel off the labels. Use a scrubber or adhesive remover if necessary. Dry completely before decorating.
2. Paint the Jars
Choose your preferred paint type. Acrylic paint allows for detailed designs, while spray paint offers a smooth, even finish. Paint the outside of the jars in your chosen colours. If you are new to painting glass, our guide to painting glass jars with acrylic paint covers what to expect. You can paint the entire jar or create patterns such as stripes, polka dots, or ombré effects. Allow the paint to dry fully between coats.
3. Add Decorative Details
Once the paint is dry, embellish your jars with ribbons, twine, or lace wrapped around the neck or body. Secure with a dab of Mod Podge or craft glue. You can also apply stickers, use stencils for lettering or shapes, or add washi tape for extra flair.
4. Seal Your Design
To protect your artwork and make your jars more durable, apply a thin layer of Mod Podge or clear craft glue over the painted areas. This will help prevent chipping and keep your jars looking fresh.
5. Use Your Upcycled Jars
Your decorative jars are now ready to use! They make excellent storage for craft supplies like buttons, beads (including homemade paper beads made from old magazines), or brushes, or practical containers for kitchen ingredients such as tea bags or spices. They also add a charming handmade touch to shelves or desks.
Tips for Successful Glass Jar Upcycling
- Work in a well-ventilated area, especially when using spray paint.
- Use painter’s tape to create clean lines or geometric patterns.
- Experiment with different textures by combining paint with fabric or paper decoupage.
- Consider using frosted glass spray paint for a soft, translucent effect.
- The same approach works on other household containers: see our upcycled tea tin planter for tips on painting metal tins.
Upcycling old glass jars is a simple and rewarding craft project that turns everyday items into beautiful, functional pieces. For more creative upcycling ideas, check out how to upcycle old t-shirts into a stylish no-sew tote bag for another practical craft project.