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I love finding new ways to give old glass jars a second life. Upcycling jars isn’t just about saving money or reducing waste—it’s also a chance to add your own style to a space. Some of the best ideas turn plain jars into chic pieces that, honestly, wouldn’t look out of place in a boutique.
If you’re looking for creative projects that make your glass jars look like they belong in a boutique, this article will guide you through 17 practical and attractive upcycling ideas.
These projects show how easy it is to transform ordinary jars into beautiful, useful pieces without much effort.
1. Hand-painted gingham or buffalo check vase
I grab some paint and an old glass jar to make a gingham or buffalo check pattern. It’s a classic look—kind of cozy, honestly.
This style works for any season and fits right in with farmhouse or rustic decor. I like that I can play around with colors and size, too.
2. Glass jar candle holder with metallic accents
I’ll add metallic paint to a glass jar for a modern, stylish vibe.
That little shimmer makes the jar feel a bit fancier.
It’s great for warm lighting and blends into a bunch of decor styles.
3. Twine-wrapped rustic bathroom organizer
I wrap jars with twine for a rustic touch and use them to organize the bathroom. They’re perfect for cotton swabs or brushes—keeps everything tidy.
4. Glass jar herb garden with labeled lids
First, I scrub old jars to get them nice and clean.
Then I toss in some small rocks for drainage, add soil, and plant herb seeds or tiny plants.
I label the lids so I can spot each herb at a glance—makes the whole thing look organized and, well, pretty cute.
5. Layered sand and shell beach jar decor
I layer different colors of sand and tuck in some shells. It’s simple but looks beautiful—each layer kind of tells its own story.
You don’t need much else. These jars look great on shelves or make thoughtful gifts. There’s something calming about them, honestly.
6. Fairy light-filled glowing lantern
Turning old jars into glowing lanterns with fairy lights is one of my favorites. It’s so easy and brings a cozy vibe to any room.
I just drop a string of lights inside. The glow through the glass feels warm and inviting.
This project is cheap, quick, and gives jars a whole new purpose.
7. Pressed flower and resin lid vase
I decorate jar lids with pressed flowers. I arrange the dried flowers, pour clear resin over the top, and let it harden.
The resin seals everything in, so the flowers stay pretty. The finished jar looks like something you’d find in a boutique—unique and a little bit fancy.
8. Ombre-dipped painted storage jars
I use acrylic paint for ombre effects on jars. Dipping the jar in layers of color gives it a smooth gradient.
It’s an easy technique, but the results look surprisingly high-end for just a bit of effort.
9. Glass jar soap dispenser with pump lid
I swap out jar lids for pump tops to make soap dispensers. You can find the pumps at dollar stores, and they usually fit mason jars perfectly. Suddenly, you’ve got a custom soap dispenser that’s way more interesting than store-bought.
10. Mason jar terrarium with succulents
I build little terrariums in mason jars using succulents. They’re easy to assemble—just layer pebbles, soil, and pop in the plants.
Succulents don’t need much attention, so it’s a win for anyone who forgets to water things (like me).
11. Jar-shaped pendant light
I hang glass jars as pendant lights, and they work in so many spaces. Over tables, in living rooms—wherever fits.
I’ll pick jars of different sizes depending on the vibe I want. Installing a lamp kit is pretty simple, and the result is neat and unique.
12. Etched glass jar with monogram design
Etched glass jars with monograms feel both personal and understated.
Adding a monogram turns a basic jar into a gift or a classy storage piece.
It’s not hard to do, and monograms work on just about any jar shape.
13. Glass jar spice rack with chalkboard labels
I use glass jars with chalkboard labels for spices. The best part? I can erase and relabel whenever I switch things up.
It keeps my kitchen looking organized, and I don’t have to hunt for anything.
14. Color-blocked painted jar set
I paint jars with bold blocks of color using regular acrylics. It’s a modern twist that doesn’t take much time.
Group a few together for a pop of color, or use them solo as vases or organizers. It’s an easy way to liven up a room.
15. Jar salt or sugar scrub container
I keep salt or sugar scrubs in glass jars. They stay fresh, and it’s easy to scoop out what I need.
I like to add a label or tie on a little spoon so the jar looks special—almost like something you’d buy at a fancy shop.
16. Frosted glass jar holder with greenery
I make jars look frosted with Mod Podge or spray paint, then add greenery (real or faux). The result is subtle and stylish—just right for a shelf or centerpiece.
17. Jar wall-mounted sconce with bulb
I like using glass jars as wall sconces—they just have this unfussy charm.
Pop a bulb inside a clear jar and you get this cozy, soft glow. It feels right in kitchens or hallways, honestly. And hey, putting one up isn’t rocket science.
