Turning a Simple Mason Jar into a Charming Floral Vase: Easy DIY Tips

If you’ve ever wanted to brighten up a room with a bit of homemade charm, turning a simple mason jar into a floral vase is a fantastic way to do it. You can transform an ordinary jar into an eye-catching centerpiece with just a few materials and creativity. Whether you like a rustic farmhouse look or something more modern, it’s a great way to reuse jars just lying around the house.

Supplies Needed

You’ll need just a few things to whip up a lovely mason jar vase. Here’s what you should gather:

• Mason Jars: Any size will do, but the classic quart-sized ones are my favorite.
• Flowers: Fresh or dried
• Floral Foam, Tape, or Wire Mesh: Not essential but can be a useful assist when composing.
• Paint: Choose acrylic or spray paint in colors that tickle your fancy.
• Brushes: Variety helps, but a basic set is sufficient.
• Mod Podge: This handy adhesive works wonders for sealing.
• Decorative Items: Think ribbons, twine, or even little trinkets.
• Scissors: Always handy for trimming ribbons or fabric.
• Glue: Hot glue gun or strong craft glue works best.

Optional Extras

Here are a few items that can give your project that extra flair:

• Stencils: Perfect for adding designs.
• Glitter: Because who doesn’t love some sparkle?
• Fabric Scraps: Great for a rustic look.

Sometimes less is more, so don’t feel pressured to use every item.

Recommended Fresh Flowers To Include

When filling a mason jar with fresh flowers, there are some real winners to choose from. Here are some of my favorites:

Roses

Roses are classic and come in so many colors. They’re great for adding a romantic touch.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers bring a happy, sunny vibe. They’re large and bright, perfect for a cheerful look.

Lilies

Lilies are another good choice. They’re fragrant, and their large blooms add a touch of sophistication.

Daisies

Daisies are simple and charming. They add a playful touch to any arrangement. Plus, they come in different colors too.

Tulips

Tulips give a fresh, springtime feel. Their sleek and simple look fits well in a mason jar.

Alstroemeria

Alstroemeria, also known as Peruvian lilies, come in many colors and last a long time. They’re great for adding pops of color.

Peonies

Peonies are lush and full. They have a romantic, old-world feel. They can be the star of the show in any arrangement.

Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas offer a full, bushy look. They’re great for filling up space and adding volume.

Dried Flower Alternatives

I also love using dried flowers for mason jar vases. Here are a few of my favorites:

Lavender: This one is a classic. It smells divine and retains its color really well. Plus, it adds a touch of elegance to any room.

Hydrangeas: These flowers keep their shape and come in beautiful colors. They can really make a statement in any arrangement.

Creative Combinations

Roses and Eucalyptus: Pairing dried roses with eucalyptus gives a romantic and timeless feel. I often use these in my bedroom to add a little charm.

Wheat and Lavender: Perfect for a rustic look, this combo is ideal for kitchens or living spaces. The wheat adds some texture, while the lavender brings in a pop of color.

Preparing The Mason Jars

First things first, you need to grab some basic supplies. Mason jars, of course, are the stars of this project. I often find them at thrift stores or even in my pantry. Make sure they are clean!

Here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need:

• Mason jars
• Warm, soapy water
• A sponge or scrubber
• Towels for drying

Start by washing the jars well with warm, soapy water. Scrub away any residue or labels. This is a bit like tidying up your kitchen.

For tougher labels, soak the jars in warm water for 10 minutes. This softens the adhesive, making it easier to scrub off. I sometimes use a bit of baking soda for stubborn spots.

Once the jars are clean, rinse thoroughly to remove any soap. Dry them off with a towel. You want them completely dry, especially if you’re planning to paint or decorate them. Nothing sticks well to a wet surface!

If you want to paint the jars, lay down some newspaper or a tarp to catch any spills. Choose a well-ventilated area. Always a good idea to avoid turning your living room into a paint-splattered mess.

Then, pick your paint. I like Krylon’s Stained Glass Paint, which offers a durable finish. Spray or brush on, depending on your preference. If you’re after a rustic look, a chalk paint works wonders.

Now, let the jars dry completely before you do anything else with them.

Steps for Fresh Flowers:

1. Prepare the Mason Jar:

• Fill the jar about 1/3 full with fresh, cool water.

• You can add flower food to the water if you have it.

2. Select Your Flowers:

• Choose a mix of flowers and greenery for variety in texture and color.

3. Trim the Stems:

• Cut the stems at an angle to allow better water absorption.

• Adjust the length based on how tall you want the flowers to sit in the jar.

4. Arrange the Focal Flowers:

• Start with the largest or most striking flowers (like roses, sunflowers, or peonies).

• Place them evenly spaced in the jar.

5. Add Greenery and Fillers:

• Add greenery (eucalyptus or fern) and smaller filler flowers (baby’s breath, daisies) around the focal flowers to create volume.

6. Adjust the Arrangement:

• Rotate the jar as you work to ensure the arrangement looks balanced from all angles.

• Rearrange stems as needed for a more even, natural look.

7. Finishing Touches:

• Add more water if needed. Place the arrangement in a cool spot away from direct sunlight.

Steps for Dried Flowers:

1. Prepare the Mason Jar:

• You can add floral foam inside the jar for better stability, though it’s optional.

2. Select Your Dried Flowers:

• Dried lavender, wheat stalks, or baby’s breath work great for dried arrangements.

3. Trim and Arrange the Dried Flowers:

• Trim stems as needed and start with the tallest flowers, placing them in the center.

• Add shorter flowers and fillers, letting them spill naturally over the sides of the jar.

4. Adjust as Needed:

• Dried flowers are more delicate, so handle them gently while adjusting the arrangement.

Adding Ribbons And Accessories

Let’s talk about sprucing up your mason jar vase with ribbons and accessories. This step will add that extra flair and make your vase stand out.

First, choose your ribbon. You can go with a classic satin ribbon for a smooth look or burlap for a rustic touch. Both can give your vase a different vibe. I personally love using lace for a vintage feel.

Steps to add a ribbon:

1. Wrap the ribbon around the rim of the mason jar.
2. Tie it into a bow or a simple knot.
3. Secure it with a dab of glue if you want it to stay in place.

The type of ribbon and tying method can change the entire look of your vase. Experiment a bit to find what you like best.

To make it even fancier, consider adding accessories. Tiny charms, beads, or even fake flowers can be attached to the ribbon.

For a more detailed touch, think about layers of ribbons. You can use a wider ribbon as a base and then a thinner one on top. This adds depth and interest to your vase.

Don’t forget about twine. It’s durable and adds a rustic touch effortlessly. Twine can be wrapped around the jar several times to create a textured band.

Caring For Your Floral Mason Jar

Taking care of your floral mason jar vase is a breeze if you follow a few simple steps.

Changing Water: Regularly change the water to keep your flowers fresh. Stale water can cause bacteria to build up, so I like to swap it out every two to three days.

Cleaning: Give your mason jar a good cleaning between uses. A bit of soap and water usually does the trick. For stubborn spots, you might want to use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda.

Trimming Stems: Don’t forget to trim the stems of your flowers. Cutting them at a slight angle helps them absorb more water. I do this every few days to help my flowers stay perky and vibrant.

Location: Place your vase in a cool, shaded spot away from direct sunlight and drafts. This helps to prolong the life of your flowers. I’ve found that my dining table or mantel works best.

Decorating Tips: Keep your jar looking its best by occasionally refreshing the decorations. Swap out ribbons, add some beads, or even change the flowers with the seasons.

Common Issues: Watch out for cloudy water or wilting flowers. These are signs that your mason jar needs attention. If the water gets cloudy, it’s time to change it. If flowers are drooping, give the stems a fresh cut and rearrange them.

Maximizing Life: To get the most out of your flowers, add a teaspoon of sugar or a bit of flower food to the water when you first arrange them. This gives them extra nutrients and keeps them looking lovely longer.

Further reading: How to make fresh-cut flowers last longer.

Where To Display

Finding the perfect spot for your mason jar vase can make a world of difference. Here are some lovely ideas:

• Living Room: I love placing a mason jar vase filled with fresh flowers on the coffee table. It adds a bright and cheerful touch right in the center of the room.
• Kitchen: The kitchen windowsill is another great spot. Not only does it get plenty of light, but you can also enjoy the flowers while cooking or washing dishes.
• Bedroom: A mason jar vase on the nightstand brings a soothing vibe to your room. Soft lavender flowers can be especially calming here.
• Bathroom: Yes, the bathroom! A small vase on the sink or a shelf can liven up the space. It’s an unexpected touch that guests often appreciate.
• Entryway: Welcome guests with a mason jar vase on the console table. It sets a friendly tone right as they walk in.
• Dining Table: Mason jar vases make wonderful centerpieces for the dining table. They add charm without being too formal.

Outdoor Areas

Don’t forget the outside!

• Patio Table: A mason jar vase on the patio table adds a nice touch for outdoor meals or gatherings.
• Garden Bench: If you have a garden bench, a vase nearby can tie the look together perfectly.
• Front Porch: Consider a vase by the door or even hanging from a hook.

It’s all about finding spots that bring you joy. Try different places and see what works best for you!

Resources And Further Reading

If you want to explore more ideas or need additional materials for your mason jar vase project, these links and resources will be helpful.

Books:

• “Flower Arranging: The Complete Guide for Beginners” by Judith Blacklock: A great resource for beginners that covers the basics of flower arranging, with ideas for simple arrangements including mason jar vases.
• “Floret Farm’s A Year in Flowers: Designing Gorgeous Arrangements for Every Season” by Erin Benzakein: This book provides seasonal inspiration for flower arrangements and is great for creating fresh, natural looks in jars or vases.
• “Mason Jar Crafts: DIY Projects for Adorable and Rustic Decor, Storage, Lighting, Gifts and Much More” by Lauren Elise Donaldson: Focused on mason jar crafts, this book includes creative ideas for using jars as vases in floral arrangements.
• “The Flower Recipe Book” by Alethea Harampolis and Jill Rizzo: A step-by-step guide to flower arranging with various projects, including mason jar arrangements. Each “recipe” details which flowers and tools you need.
• “Handpicked: Simple, Sustainable, and Seasonal Flower Arrangements” by Ingrid Carozzi: Focused on eco-friendly and sustainable floral design, this book offers modern, rustic designs perfect for mason jars.

Online Resources:

• Mason Jar Flowers by She’s A Mad Gardener: Several fun tutorials on floral arrangements, including specific videos on using mason jars as vases.

• Pinterest: Search “Mason Jar Flower Arrangements” for thousands of creative ideas and tutorials from DIY bloggers and floral enthusiasts.
• Martha Stewart – DIY Flower Arranging Tips: Martha Stewart’s website offers various articles on floral arranging with creative tips and tricks for mason jar displays.