8 Gifts That Take Your Love of Mason Jars to the Next Level

Britt Feder
Oct 18, 2015

Whether we’re using ’em to make salads for work, creative not salads for the weekend or decorations for a spooky time, mason jars reign supreme in our hearts. And while a regular mason jar is a great standby, there’s more than just one type of jar out there, especially if you’re poking around the Brit + Co shop. Not to pick favorites, but these are totally our eight favorite finds in the jarring world of jars. Hardy, jar, jar.

1. Mason Jar Cocktail Shaker ($29): Sorry, salads. This is our new favorite use for a mason jar. Shake, shake, shake your way to a delicious cocktail, while looking so hip and cool.

2. Gold Mason Jar Mugs + Straws ($62): While drinking out of mason jars isn’t entirely new, this set is just too cute to pass up. You get 12 jars, complete with multi-color paper straws and funky lids. We see a picnic in our future.

3. Complete Soy Wax Mason Jar Candle Kit ($70): The heat is on with this DIY kit. You’ll have everything you need to make 12 scented candles in a bunch of colors. With the holidays fast approaching, this could be the best investment ever. It would be soy much fun to gift your loved ones a cool candle.

4. Garden Jars ($80): Our green thumb is green with envy over this fresh spin on jars. Grow your very own basil, parsley, cilantro and oregano in these colorful, vintage mason jars. All you have to do is add water, and then it’s herb time.

5. Expletive: Seaglass Wooden Wick Soy Candle ($40): We swear you’ll love this candle’s multi-purpose usage. First step: Burn the candle to fill your house with a fresh ocean scent. After you burn it all down, clean the jar, and it becomes your very own handy swear jar. It even has a lid to insert your money.

6. Kombucha Home Brew Kit ($45): Gone are the days of $4 kombuchas. This brew kit is everything you need to get started at home, so you can end up with delicious kombucha you just can’t find in stores.

7. Mason Jar Speaker ($65): We hear ya loud and clear: Music is your jam. Speaking of jam, this jar is jammin’ in your non-traditional mason jar jam kinda way. This portable speaker is great for your phone, laptop and even your electric guitar amp.

8. Party in a Jar ($22): The name says it all. Bring this jar anywhere to get the party started (and then some). With a velvet crown, balloons and confetti, we bet you’ll make up any excuse to bust this mason jar out.

How do you use your jars in cool and creative new ways? Tell us in the comments below.

56 DIY Mason Jar Crafts and Hacks to Try This Summer

We know, we know, Mason jars again? Believe it or not, this uber-versatile craft goodie is still being reinvented. From summer cocktail glasses to hanging planters and even mosquito-fighting candles, your collection of mason jars can take on a new meaning with just a simple dip of paint and a bit of creativity. Check out these whopping 56 DIY mason jar crafts to repurpose your jars and put them to good use.

1. Polka Dot Jars: A few dots of puffy paint go a long way. Allow the adorable, fruit-inspired jars to dry overnight and you are ready to go. (via Whipperberry)

2. Hanging Macrame Vase: Show off the knots you learned back in Girl Scouts and string up this one-of-a-kind vase. (via Brit + Co)

3. Key Lime Pie: No bake and already divvied up? This is the perfect summer dessert to impress your guests. (via A Million Moments)

4. Vertical Herb Garden: Take your herb garden to new heights with this vertical planter tutorial. (via Brit + Co)

5. Summertime Sun Tea: Assemble the drinks and let the sun do all the work for you. Your guests will thank you for it. (via Thirsty for Tea)

6. Fabric Flower Vases: Raid your scrap pile and you’ll have cute new vases in no time. (via Dwelling In Happiness)

7. Mason Jar Aquarium: Have the kids each make their own underwater creation and take the opportunity to do a little Oocean lesson. This project is so much fun they will never suspect they’re learning at the same time. (via Hello, Wonderful)

8. Balloon-Dipped Jars: No messy paint or tape required here — just good old-fashioned balloons. (via Brit + Co)

9. Fancy Tumbler: Now you can drink your iced coffee in style. (via Pretty Providence)

10. Superhero Bank: Get your little sidekick excited about saving with a super cool bank they helped make. (via Fireflies + Mudpies)

11. Chalkboard Lid Labels: A simple coat of chalkboard paint will let you know what’s in stock at a single glance. (via Momtastic)

12. Cocktail Gift: This is one favor you’ll want to give out at the start of the party. (via Something Turquoise)

13. Citronella Candles: Add a little mood lighting and keep those pesky insects away at the same time. This one is an all-around winner. (via Marty’s Musings)

14. Picnic Caddy: Use it as a silverware caddy or stick a few flameless candles in the jars for instant ambiance. (Clean and Scentsible)

15. Storage Shelf: Give yourself a little extra storage without actually sacrificing your counter space. You will be amazed you didn’t think of this sooner. (via Poofy Cheeks)

16. Cozies: These cozies only take a few minutes to make and would be a great thank-you gift for any summer party. (via I Heart Naptime)

17. Layered Crayon Candle: Don’t toss out that pile of broken crayons! Reuse them to make a new colorful layered candle instead. (via Hello Giggles)

18. Cupcake Holder: We’re suckers for pretty packaging, and this one takes the cake ;) (via Nellie Bellie)

19. Painted Succulent Planter: Place a few rocks in the bottom of each jar for added drainage and remember not to overwater. Even the most novice gardener can keep these babies flourishing. (via Lolly Jane)

20. Cupcake Wrapper Storage: Instead of shoving all your cupcake wrappers in the back of the cabinet, put them on display and add color to your countertop. (via Table for Two Blog)

21. Glitter Vase: Every day is a good day when you have a glittery vase full of fresh flowers on your table. (via Perfect Wedding)

22. Hair Station: Mismatched knobs and hanging jars make this storage solution as practical as it is pretty. (via Nefotlak)

23. Lego Head Jars: Throwing a LEGO party this summer? Save your jars and make these adorable decorations to add a bit of flair to any table. (via Beau Coup)

24. Upcycled Belt Lantern: Run to the thrift store and buy every (faux) leather belt you can find. Then come home and make a few of these lanterns for your patio makeover. (via Nothstory)

25. American Flag Jars: Perfect for all the upcoming patriotic holidays, these painted jars are easy to put together and make a big impact. (via Mason DePax)

26. Monogram Light: Is there anything you can’t do with a mason jar? (via Oleander and Palm)

27. Bride and Groom Jars: These would look adorable at a bridal shower or on the dessert table at the wedding. You’ll be looking for every excuse to display this dapper pair. (via The 36th Avenue)

28. Gold Stripes: Gold spray paint can do no wrong in our books. (via Your Homebased Mom)

29. Match Stick Jar: Holy match sticks! You’ll never have to dig through your junk drawer for a lighter ever again. (via The DIY Playbook)

30. Mini Pies: Use the lid to cut out crusts for individual chocolate pies. These little gems are *almost* too cute to eat. (via Brit + Co)

31. Pallet Wood Planter: Grab the next pallet you find and let your kitchen table make a huge statement. (via I Heart Nap Time)

32. Patina Paint Job: With just a few simple steps, you can make your jars looks like they’ve been around for decades even though you just took them out of the box. (via Suburble)

33. Picnic in a Jar: If nothing else, this is a surefire way to get your kids to eat their vegetables so they can get to that cookie at the bottom. (via The Gunny Sack)

34. Salt + Pepper Shakers: In under an hour, you can have a pair of salt and pepper shakers to perfectly match your kitchen decor. (via Landeelou)

35. Gold-Dipped Planter: Hang your favorite herbs from a tension rod by the kitchen window for easy access during the dinner rush. (via Sincerely, Sara D)

36. Dirt Pudding: Made of layers of chocolate pudding, cool whip and crushed Oreo cookies, these pudding are so good even the adults will love them. (via Better in Bulk)

37. Utensil Holder: The buffet line will move with ease once you put out this DIY utensil holder. Attach it to the fence for a more permanent solution if you constantly eat al fresco. (via Design, Dining and Diapers)

38. Soap Dispenser: Throw out that old plastic soap dispenser (but save the pump!) and give your kitchen a straight-from-the-magazine look. (via Love Grows Wild)

39. Solar Lamp: These are perfect for adding a warm glow to any outdoor get-together. (via Creative Cain Cabin)

40. Terrarium: Get your hands dirty and make a living terrarium. Your kiddos will love putting in each layer and watching it thrive on the windowsill. (via Parent Pretty)

41. Toothbrush Holder: Now even your toothbrush can get the Mason jar treatment. (via Country Chic Cottage)

42. Tinted Jar Candle: It’s like getting two tutorials in one! Learn how to tint your jars and then make a candle inside. (via Something Turquoise)

43. Twine Holder: Does your ribbon and twine end up a tangled mess? Well, not anymore with this bad boy. (via ‘a Casarella)

44. Rainbow Cake: These cakes are baked right in the jar and will add just the right amount of whimsy to any party. (via Lovely Little Details)

45. Craft Kit in a Jar: Know someone who likes to get their DIY on? Give them a customized craft kit in, you guessed it, a Mason jar! (via The Gunny Sack)

46. Easy Buffet Service: Create a grab-and-go station so guests get their napkin, silverware and cup at the same time. Everything will be streamlined so you’re not running around looking for extra forks at the last second. (via The Sweetest Occasion)

47. Whipped Cream: Now you can have whipped cream that’s better than the store-bought stuff with just a few flicks of the wrist. (via Saveur)

48. Storage Jars: Gather a few different knobs to make a collection of storage jars that double as decorative art. (via Lolly Jane)

49. Air Freshener: If there’s one room in the house that could use an air freshener, it’s the bathroom. At least this one is nice to look at. (via Creek Line House)

50. Pin Cushion: Whip up a quick pin cushion and corral all your loose sewing needles before you have to find them the hard way. (via Wait Til Your Father Gets Home)

51. Ice Cream: Pre-scoop ice cream and set out a buffet of toppings like sprinkles and chocolate chips for a refreshing summer dessert. (via Pen and Paper Flowers)

52. Kids’ Table Favors: Fill the jars with things like crayons, a snack and a small toy, and the kids will be happily entertained all afternoon. (via Brides)

53. Makeup Jar: Are you a glass-half-full kind of girl? Then this one’s for you. (via Birchbox)

54. Red Velvet in a Jar: Bake your favorite red velvet cupcakes, then take them apart and stuff them in a jar. Attach a wooden spoon and you’re done. (via Cakies)

55. Sprinkles Pen Holder: Here’s a simple and unexpected new use for sprinkles. (via The Farm Chicks)

56. Glitter Vase: A layer of pink glitter makes this iridescent vase stand out from all the rest. (via My Common Slice of Suburbia)

Which of these DIY mason jar crafts are you going to try repurpose your jars?

Talk to us below or explore creative DIY pins on Pinterest!

This article has been updated from an original version.

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Target's New Kate Spade Collection Is The Spring Refresh You're Looking For

Spring has officially bloomed because Target & Kate Spade New York are dropping a refreshing collection that will be all over TikTok and Instagram soon. We haven't been this excited for a fashion collab since J. Crew & Christopher John Rogers, so we're aching to share all the fascinating news about it. Ready to see what's in store?

Keep scrolling to learn everything about the Target & Kate Spade New York collection!

What can I expect from the Target & Kate Spade New York collection?

Target

This limited edition collection will feature the brightest, boldest colors and prints you can think of. From fuchsia to polka dots, shoppers will can get a taste of luxury without spending an exuberant amount of money. Plus, the pieces are functional and work for an array of situations.

Hosting a spring soirée at home or plan on lounging by the pool The White Lotus-style? The Target & Kate Spade New York collection has everything you need.

Will it only have women's apparel?

Target

It brings us great pleasure to say no! Everyone will be able to find something they love in this collection because it features women's & kids apparel, home decor, chic accessories, and party decor.

How big is the collection overall?

Target

It seems like Target & Kate Spade New York are anticipating people having a ton of fun this spring because they have over 300 items shoppers can choose from. There's even games you'll be able to buy and put out for guests at the next barbecue you're invited to!

When can I shop the Target & Kate Spade New York collection?

Target

Get your carts and wallets ready because the Target & Kate Spade New York collection will be available to shop on Target.com Saturday, April 12.

Stay tuned to see our favorite pieces from the collection once it launches.

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This Mason Jar Lasagna Recipe Is What Lunch Dreams Are Made Of

Lasagna has to be the biggest temptation in the world for going-back-for-seconds (and thirds?), right? A huge tray of meaty, cheesy pasta that’s just asking to be picked at, even when you’re way past full! So let’s prevent the meagre leftovers and too-tight belts by portioning that lasagna up mason-jar style. Use fresh pasta sheets that can be cut to the shape of your jars,and add in some sliced zucchini for a splash of color. Finish it off with lots of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for a super satisfying dinner. Prefer a veggie version? Try the mason-jar style with one of these veggie lasagna recipes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, peeled and diced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
  • 2 Tablespoons tomato puree
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 x 14 ounce cans chopped tomatoes
  • 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 heaped Tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 packed cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 packed cup shredded mozzarella
  • 3-4 sheets fresh lasagna
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Heat the oil in a large skillet. Add the onion and cook on a medium heat for 5-6 minutes, until the onion starts to soften. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking up any pieces, until browned.
  3. Add the garlic, tomato puree, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir together, then stir in the canned tomatoes. Bring to a gentle bubble and simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Take your four mason jars (we used squat, 16.5 ounce mason jars), and cut circles out of the lasagna sheets that will fit the jars. You need 2 lasagna circles per jar.
  5. Now make your white sauce. Melt the butter in a saucepan and add the flour. Stir with a whisk to let the flour and butter cook slightly for one minute. Add in the milk, a splash at a time, while stirring with the whisk. Incorporate each splash of milk before adding the next, until you have a smooth, thick sauce. Stir in a good pinch of salt and pepper, plus a quarter of the cheddar and quarter of the mozzarella, and turn off the heat.
  6. Divide one third of the meat sauce between the mason jars. Top the meat with slices of raw zucchini. Spoon on a heaped tablespoon of the white sauce and top with a lasagna circle. Repeat.
  7. Top the second layer of lasagna circles with the remaining meat sauce, followed by the remaining white sauce. Divide the cheddar and mozzarella between the mason jars. Place the jars on a baking sheet and cook in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is browned and the sauce is bubbling.
  8. Carefully remove from the oven and leave to cool slightly before serving topped with sprigs of fresh thyme.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat the oil in a large skillet. Add the onion and cook on a medium heat for 5-6 minutes, until the onion starts to soften. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking up any pieces, until browned. Add the garlic, tomato puree, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir together, then stir in the canned tomatoes. Bring to a gentle bubble and simmer for 15 minutes.

Take your four mason jars (we used squat, 16.5 ounce mason jars), and cut circles out of the lasagna sheets that will fit the jars. You need two lasagna circles per jar.

Now make your white sauce. Melt the butter in a saucepan and add the flour. Stir with a whisk to let the flour and butter cook slightly for one minute. Add in the milk, a splash at a time, while stirring with the whisk. Incorporate each splash of milk before adding the next, until you have a smooth, thick sauce. Stir in a good pinch of salt and pepper, plus a quarter of the cheddar and quarter of the mozzarella, and turn off the heat.

Divide one third of the meat sauce between the mason jars. Top the meat with slices of raw zucchini. Spoon on a heaped tablespoon of the white sauce and top with a lasagna circle. Repeat.

Top the second layer of lasagna circles with the remaining meat sauce, followed by the remaining white sauce. Divide the cheddar and mozzarella between the mason jars. Place the jars on a baking sheet and cook in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is browned and the sauce is bubbling.

Carefully remove from the oven and leave to cool slightly before serving topped with sprigs of fresh thyme.

Do you have a favorite mason jar recipe? We’d love to hear!Tweet us @BritandCo with a pic, and follow us on Pinterest for more tasty recipes!

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'Outlander' Fans Rejoice: 'Blood of My Blood' Will Fill The Historical Romance Void This Summer

Fans have been enthralled by Outlander ever since it debuted in 2014 — hence why the show has gone on to have seven successful seasons, with the eighth and final season expected to premiere late this year or in 2026. Fans truly can't get enough of Claire and Jamie's great romance, and it doesn't have to completely end with season 8...or not exactly. Outlander prequel, Blood of My Blood comes out this summer and explores your favorite family from a very unique perspective. This is everything we know about Blood of My Blood!

Here's everything you need to know about the Outlander prequel, Blood of my Blood.

What's 'Outlander' about?

Starz

Outlander follows Claire Randall, a British Army nurse who, after serving in World War II, goes on a second honeymoon in Scotland with her husband, Frank. He is an MI6 officer preparing for a new career as an Oxford historian.

However, Claire's life takes a dramatic turn when she is mysteriously transported back to 1743, where her safety and freedom are at risk. In order to survive, she marries a strong and charismatic Scots warrior named Jamie Fraser. Then, as their relationship deepens, Claire finds herself torn between two very different men and two conflicting worlds.

How many seasons of 'Outlander' will there be?

Starz

Whether you're an OG fan of Outlander or a newcomer, many are upset about it coming to an end soon with Season 8. The good news is that you have a prequel series to look forward to, Outlander: Blood of My Blood.

What is the 'Outlander' prequel 'Blood of My Blood' about?

Starz

Outlander: Blood of My Blood explores two parallel origin stories: the romance between Jamie's parents, as well as Claire's parents' love story during the war. The show will highlight these two love stories, set in different time periods, as they unfold side by side.

Who's in the 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood' cast?

Starz

Hermione Corfield and Jeremy Irvine star as Julia Moriston and Henry Beauchamp; meanwhile, Harriet Slater and Jamie Roy play Ellen MacKenzie and Brian Fraser.

The rest of the cast includes:

  • Tony Curran, Rory Alexander
  • Séamus McLean Ross
  • Sam Retford
  • Conor MacNeill
  • Brian McCardie
  • Jhon Lumsden
  • Sara Vickers
  • Peter Mullan
  • Sally Messham
  • Terence Rae
  • Sadhbh Malin
  • Alisa Davidson

Is there a trailer for 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood'?

Starz

Back in January, Starz released a 52-second teaser trailer for the show on YouTube, and it's clear the Outlander prequel will be packed with just as much passion as the original series. Eager fans in the comment section seemed to agree, with many sharing their excitement for the new spinoff.

"I can't wait to see the two love stories that gave us our favorite love story," wrote one viewer.

"I am so obsessed with Outlander, and I'm so excited to keep watching it in a different light," added another.

"Outlander is a very beautiful but brutal story, and I hope this new spinoff series captures that magic as well," noted a third.

Where can I watch 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood'?

Starz

You can watch Blood of My Blood on Starz!

When does 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood' come out?

Starz

Outlander: Blood of My Blood is set to premiere summer 2025! We don't have an exact date right now, but we'll update you as soon as we do! In the meantime, you can revisit the original Outlander series. All seven seasons are available to stream on Hulu.

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5 “Classic” Easter Chocolates, Ranked By A Certified Sweet Tooth

I am undeniably a chocolate lover by nature, and aside from Christmas, Easter is one of my favoritesweet treat-centered holidays because all the festive egg- and bunny-shaped chocolates hit shelves, sparking my cravings (and teasing my wallet).

I’ve probably tried every kind of Easter chocolate under the sun, so I’m ranking the 5 I view as the most classic. All of these Easter chocolates are great in their own ways and will certainly satisfy anyone when added to their Easter basket, so take this ranking with a grain of salt.

Read on for my full ranking of the 5 best classic Easter chocolates.

Amazon

1. Cadbury Crème Eggs

When I think of Easter chocolates, my mind immediately goes to Cadbury Crème Eggs. They’re filled with a gooey fondant that is downright addictive. Once you break through the chocolate shell, you’re faced with a deliciously silky sugar concoction that, for me, feels really nostalgic to snack on since I’d get one in my Easter basket just about every year.

While some people may find ‘em too decadent, I think Cadbury Crème Eggs are the #1 Easter chocolate, hands-down, because they’re always tasty. We love a reliable treat – but you definitely do have to enjoy these one at a time since they’re undeniably rich.

Amazon

2. Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs

Next up on my (very subjective) ranking of Easter chocolates is none other than Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs! I’ll take Reese’s stunning peanut butter filling in any form I can have it, but the egg shape this treat takes on for Easter just makes it feel even more special.

Amazon

Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs totally master the perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter, which can be a nice departure for my tastebuds from just straight-up chocolate, like the other Easter chocolates on this list. Thus, I’m placing it in the #2 spot.

Amazon

3. Easter M&M’s

I love me a colorful treat, and I love me some M&M’s – which is why the Easter M&M’s that come in the cutest pastels every April simply had to place somewhere this ranking.

Amazon

Though I don’t view these as the most show-stopping Easter chocolates (they’re quite literally the same as the regular M&M’s you can get year-round in flavor and form), they’re still a festive treat worth snagging from the store. By themselves, I have to put them in the #3 spot – though I’d consider granting more points if you give ‘em to me on top of a slice of Easter cake.

Amazon

4. Cadbury Mini Eggs

My note about colors also applies to the next Easter chocolate: Cadbury Mini Eggs. Decked out in adorable pastel candy shells, these egg-shaped chocolates always come around at Eastertime – though they’re not really the first thing I reach for. Though, when I do get my hands on them, I find that their small size makes them extremely snackable, and they disappear quite quickly.

Amazon

5. Chocolate Bunnies

I don't mean to be the Scrooge of Easter, but at this point, chocolate bunnies are so expected. I have eaten many in my lifetime, but they never truly blow me away. Don’t get me wrong: I still love chocolate, but there’s also something that feels so wrong when I bite off the bunny’s ears. And face. And body.

It would take a really great chocolate bunny to impress me – most ones I’ve had are lower in quality and vary in being too thick or too thin to bite into easily.

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