Mason jars are a holiday crafting staple due to their versatility, affordability, and charm. With a little creativity, you can transform these simple glass jars into beautiful decorations, thoughtful gifts, and delightful holiday treats. Here’s a comprehensive guide to 31 DIY Mason Jar Christmas crafts that will fill your home with festive spirit and creativity.
1. Mason Jar Snow Globes
Description: Create a magical snow globe using a mason jar. This craft captures the winter wonderland vibe beautifully.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jar with a lid
- Small figurine (like a Christmas tree or snowman)
- Distilled water
- Glycerin (to help the glitter float)
- Glitter (white or silver)
- Hot glue gun
Instructions:
- Glue the figurine to the inside of the jar lid.
- Fill the jar with distilled water, leaving some space at the top.
- Add a few drops of glycerin and a generous sprinkle of glitter.
- Screw the lid on tightly and shake gently to create a snowy effect.
Tips: You can use food coloring in the water for a tinted effect. Ensure the lid is secured tightly to prevent leaks.
2. Christmas Lights in a Jar
Description: Brighten up your home by filling mason jars with battery-operated fairy lights.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars (any size)
- Battery-operated fairy lights
- Decorative elements (optional: faux snow, pinecones, or ornaments)
Instructions:
- Simply place the fairy lights inside the jar.
- Add decorative elements for extra charm if desired.
- Turn on the lights and enjoy the cozy glow.
Tips: Use multiple jars of different sizes for a varied look. Group them together on a table or mantel for added effect.
3. Mason Jar Candles
Description: Create beautiful candle holders using mason jars to fill your home with light and fragrance.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Candle wax (paraffin, soy, or beeswax)
- Wicks
- Essential oils (optional)
- Double boiler
Instructions:
- Melt the candle wax in a double boiler.
- Add essential oils for fragrance if desired.
- Place the wick in the center of the jar and pour the melted wax into the jar.
- Allow it to cool and harden before trimming the wick.
Tips: Use festive scents like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla for a holiday ambiance.
4. Holiday Treat Jars
Description: Fill mason jars with homemade cookies or candies for a delightful gift idea.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Homemade cookies or candies
- Decorative ribbons or labels
Instructions:
- Layer your cookies or candies in the jar for a visually appealing treat.
- Seal the jar and tie a ribbon around the neck.
- Attach a festive tag with a message or the cookie recipe.
Tips: Choose holiday-themed cookies like gingerbread or peppermint bark for an extra festive touch.
5. Mason Jar Ornaments
Description: Create unique ornaments by decorating mason jars and filling them with holiday-themed items.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Paint (acrylic or spray)
- Holiday decorations (fake snow, small ornaments, glitter)
- Twine or ribbon
Instructions:
- Paint the outside of the jar in festive colors.
- Fill the jar with fake snow or glitter and add small ornaments.
- Tie a ribbon around the neck for hanging.
Tips: Use clear jars for a classic look or colored jars for a fun twist.
6. Jar Lid Wreaths
Description: Use mason jar lids to create beautiful wreaths for holiday decorations.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jar lids
- Hot glue gun
- Foam or cardboard base
- Decorative items (like pinecones, berries, or ribbons)
Instructions:
- Arrange the lids in a circular shape on the foam or cardboard base.
- Glue them in place securely.
- Decorate with other embellishments for a festive look.
Tips: Hang your wreath on the front door or as a focal point in your home.
7. Mason Jar Gift Wrapping
Description: Use mason jars as a creative alternative to traditional gift wrapping.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Small gifts or treats
- Decorative fabric or paper
- Ribbon
Instructions:
- Place the gift inside the mason jar.
- Cover the lid with decorative fabric or paper and secure with ribbon.
- Add a tag with a personal message.
Tips: This is an eco-friendly gift-wrapping idea that adds a personal touch.
8. Christmas Village Jars
Description: Create a charming Christmas village scene inside mason jars.
Materials Needed:
- Various sizes of mason jars
- Miniature figurines (like houses, trees, or people)
- Cotton balls (for snow)
- Glitter or fake snow
Instructions:
- Place cotton balls at the bottom of the jar for snow.
- Arrange the figurines inside the jar.
- Add glitter or fake snow for a sparkling effect.
Tips: Use different sizes of jars for a layered village look.
9. Holiday Centerpieces
Description: Fill mason jars with seasonal decorations for stunning centerpieces.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Seasonal items (pinecones, ornaments, artificial flowers)
- Twine or ribbon
Instructions:
- Fill the jars with your chosen seasonal items.
- Tie twine or ribbon around the top for added decoration.
- Arrange the jars on your dining table or side table.
Tips: Use jars of varying heights to create an interesting visual display.
10. Snowman Jars
Description: Transform mason jars into adorable snowmen for decoration.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- White paint or spray paint
- Fabric (for hats and scarves)
- Buttons or beads (for eyes and buttons)
Instructions:
- Paint the mason jar white and let it dry completely.
- Attach buttons or beads for eyes and buttons down the front.
- Wrap fabric around the top to create a hat and scarf.
Tips: Use battery-operated candles inside to illuminate the snowman for a warm glow.
11. Advent Calendar Jars
Description: Create an advent calendar with 24 small jars filled with treats or messages.
Materials Needed:
- 24 small mason jars
- Treats or notes
- Decorative labels
Instructions:
- Fill each jar with a treat or message.
- Label each jar with numbers 1 through 24.
- Arrange them in a festive display.
Tips: Use a decorative tray or shelf to showcase your advent calendar.
12. Santa Hat Jars
Description: Decorate mason jars to resemble Santa’s hat, perfect for holding treats.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Red paint
- White fluffy fabric or cotton
- Hot glue gun
Instructions:
- Paint the jar red and allow it to dry.
- Glue the fluffy fabric around the top to resemble Santa’s hat.
- Fill the jar with candy canes or festive treats.
Tips: Place these jars around the house for a cheerful touch.
13. Christmas Potion Jars
Description: Create whimsical potion jars filled with colorful liquids and labels for a magical effect.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Colored water (add food coloring)
- Labels
- Decorative elements (glitter, faux leaves)
Instructions:
- Fill the jars with colored water.
- Label each jar with creative names like “Elf Tears” or “Holiday Magic.”
- Add decorative elements for a magical look.
Tips: Display them on a shelf or table for a fun conversation starter.
14. DIY Mason Jar Luminaries
Description: Create beautiful luminaries using mason jars and candles.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Frosted glass spray (optional)
- Tea lights or LED candles
- Decorative elements (twine, lace)
Instructions:
- Spray the outside of the jar with frosted glass spray if desired.
- Place a tea light or LED candle inside.
- Decorate the outside with twine or lace.
Tips: Group several luminaries together for a stunning effect on a table or outdoor space.
15. Candy Cane Jars
Description: Fill mason jars with candy canes for a simple yet festive decoration.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Candy canes
- Decorative ribbon or labels
Instructions:
- Fill the jars with candy canes.
- Seal the jar and tie a festive ribbon around the neck.
- Use as a centerpiece or as gifts.
Tips: These jars are perfect for kids to help with, making it a fun family activity.
16. Mason Jar Holiday Planners
Description: Use mason jars to organize your holiday activities and plans.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Colored paper
- Pens
Instructions:
- Cut the colored paper into small slips for notes.
- Write down holiday activities or reminders and place them in the jar.
- Decorate the jar with holiday stickers or labels.
Tips: Use different jars for different categories, like gifts, recipes, and activities.
17. Gingerbread House Jars
Description: Make festive gingerbread houses inside mason jars for decoration or gifts.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Gingerbread cookies (homemade or store-bought)
- Royal icing
- Decorative candies
Instructions:
- Build small gingerbread houses and let them dry completely.
- Place the house inside the jar and decorate with royal icing and candies.
- Seal the jar for a beautiful display.
Tips: These make lovely gifts or festive decorations.
18. Mason Jar Tree Decorations
Description: Create mini Christmas trees inside mason jars.
Materials Needed:
- Small mason jars
- Faux evergreen branches or mini trees
- Decorative ornaments
- Glitter
Instructions:
- Place the faux evergreen or mini tree inside the jar.
- Decorate with small ornaments and sprinkle with glitter.
- Seal the jar for a beautiful holiday decoration.
Tips: Use different sizes of jars to create a mini forest effect.
19. Holiday Themed Salt and Pepper Shakers
Description: Use mason jars to create festive salt and pepper shakers for your holiday table.
Materials Needed:
- Small mason jars
- Salt and pepper
- Decorative lids or shaker tops
Instructions:
- Fill the jars with salt and pepper.
- Secure the decorative lids or shaker tops.
- Place on your holiday table for a festive touch.
Tips: Use seasonal labels for a personalized effect.
20. Peppermint Mocha Jars
Description: Create a jar mix for peppermint mocha to give as gifts.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Instant coffee
- Cocoa powder
- Sugar
- Crushed peppermint
Instructions:
- Layer the ingredients in the jar: instant coffee, cocoa powder, sugar, and crushed peppermint.
- Seal the jar and attach a label with instructions for making the drink.
Tips: Add a festive ribbon around the jar for a nice presentation.
21. Mason Jar Gift Tags
Description: Make unique gift tags using mason jar shapes.
Materials Needed:
- Colored cardstock
- Scissors
- Hole punch
- String
Instructions:
- Cut the cardstock into the shape of mason jars.
- Punch a hole at the top and attach string.
- Write your recipient’s name or a message on the tag.
Tips: These tags can be attached to any gift for a homemade touch.
22. Christmas Countdown Jars
Description: Use jars to count down the days until Christmas.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- 24 small treats or messages
- Decorative labels
Instructions:
- Fill each jar with a treat or message for the countdown.
- Label each jar with numbers 1 through 24.
- Each day, open one jar until Christmas!
Tips: Personalize each message for an added surprise each day.
23. Mason Jar Mini Photo Albums
Description: Create a mini photo album in a mason jar for holiday memories.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jar
- Small photos
- Decorative paper or fabric
- Twine
Instructions:
- Print and cut small photos.
- Roll them up and tie with twine or decorative paper.
- Place the rolled photos in the jar.
Tips: This makes a thoughtful gift for family members.
24. DIY Mason Jar Soap Dispenser
Description: Transform a mason jar into a stylish soap dispenser for the holiday season.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jar
- Soap dispenser pump (you can purchase this separately)
- Liquid soap
Instructions:
- Fill the mason jar with liquid soap.
- Attach the soap dispenser pump to the jar.
- Use it in your kitchen or bathroom.
Tips: Decorate the jar with festive ribbons for a holiday touch.
25. Santa’s Workshop Jar
Description: Create a festive display representing Santa’s workshop.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Small toy tools or figurines
- Fake snow or cotton
- Decorative labels
Instructions:
- Fill the jar with fake snow and arrange the toy tools.
- Label the jar “Santa’s Workshop.”
- Display it on a shelf or table.
Tips: This makes a fun decoration for kids’ spaces.
26. Christmas Potpourri Jars
Description: Fill mason jars with homemade potpourri for a festive aroma.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Dried flowers, spices, and citrus peels
- Essential oils (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine dried flowers, spices, and citrus peels in the jar.
- Add a few drops of essential oils for extra fragrance.
- Seal the jar and use it as a decoration.
Tips: Use seasonal scents like cinnamon, pine, or orange for a holiday atmosphere.
27. Reindeer Food Jars
Description: Create jars of reindeer food to sprinkle on Christmas Eve.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Oats
- Glitter or edible sparkles
- Decorative ribbon
Instructions:
- Fill the jar with oats and a sprinkle of glitter.
- Seal the jar and decorate with a ribbon.
- Include a tag with instructions for sprinkling on Christmas Eve.
Tips: This is a fun tradition for kids to participate in.
28. Frosty the Snowman Jars
Description: Make jars that look like Frosty the Snowman using simple materials.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- White paint
- Black and orange paper (for eyes and nose)
- Decorative scarf
Instructions:
- Paint the outside of the jar white.
- Cut out eyes and a carrot nose from black and orange paper.
- Add a scarf around the neck of the jar.
Tips: Fill with treats or lights for a festive display.
29. Mason Jar Music Boxes
Description: Create a charming music box using a mason jar.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jar
- Music box mechanism
- Small figurines
- Decorative elements (like glitter or faux snow)
Instructions:
- Attach the music box mechanism to the bottom of the jar.
- Place a small figurine inside the jar and decorate with glitter or snow.
- Close the jar and enjoy the music.
Tips: Choose holiday-themed music for a festive touch.
30. Christmas Cookie Mix Jars
Description: Layer ingredients for holiday cookies in mason jars as gifts.
Materials Needed:
- Mason jars
- Ingredients for cookies (flour, sugar, chocolate chips)
- Decorative labels
Instructions:
- Layer the dry ingredients for your cookie recipe in the jar.
- Seal the jar and attach a label with baking instructions.
Tips: Use festive labels and ribbons for a nice presentation.
31. Mason Jar Gift Baskets
Description: Create gift baskets using mason jars filled with goodies.
Materials Needed:
- Various sizes of mason jars
- Assorted treats (candies, hot cocoa mix, cookies)
- Decorative labels or tags
Instructions:
- Fill each jar with different treats.
- Seal the jars and decorate with labels or tags.
- Arrange them in a basket for a complete gift.
Tips: Mix and match treats for a variety of flavors.
Conclusion
With these 31 DIY Mason Jar Christmas Crafts, you can add a personal touch to your holiday celebrations. From decorations and gifts to festive treats, the possibilities are endless. Gather your materials, get creative, and enjoy the process of crafting holiday cheer!