You Can Use Mason Jars for What?! (A Whole Lot More Than Just Canning, That’s for Sure)

Have you ever noticed how many glass jars are scattered around in an antique mall? With different brands, sizes, and colors to choose from, it seems like there's an endless supply for sale. But what do you do with them? Believe it or not, there are countless ways to feature these versatile and charming jars around your home!

What is a Mason Jar?

Mason jars are durable, thick glass jars known for their expertly engineered two-part lid system that creates a vacuum seal when tightened. The lid system is made up of a flat metal lid with a sealant element, like a rubber gasket, and an outer screw band. While these jars are designed for canning, a process that involves creating a vacuum seal with heat or pressure, they can also be used to safely store and transport a variety of dried goods.

Are Ball Jars the Same As Mason Jars?

Though they are often used interchangeably to describe the glass jars found at Highland antique stores, it's important to note that the two are not the same. The term "Mason" refers to the design patented in 1858 by John Landis Mason, which was later licensed to the Ball Corporation. Technically, a "Ball jar" is a Mason-style glass jar produced by that specific brand.

Why We Love Mason Jars

Mason jars have been a household staple around the country for over 150 years, and they aren't going away anytime soon. It doesn't matter whether you grew up canning your Nonna's famous sauce recipe as a family or drank fresh lemonade from them every summer as a child—if you grew up with these timeless glass jars in your home, just seeing them evokes feelings of nostalgia. Shop for jars at an antique mall near you and invite a little of that childhood magic back into your life!

We also love that Ball jars are reusable, durable, and ultimately versatile. With a built-to-last design, glass jars can be used repeatedly for a wide variety of uses. Talk about a sustainable alternative to single-use packaging!

What Makes Glass Jars Valuable?

While it's rare for them to be sold for more than a couple of dollars, certain factors can affect the value of these sturdy glass jars:

• Rarity

• Condition

• Color

• Size

• Specific markings

Decorate with Glass Jars in Every Room of the House

The biggest appeal to collecting antique glass jars is just how many ways they can be used in your home! Unlike certain collectibles, where you'd want to keep them safely stored away, Ball jars can be shown off and utilized in every room of the house. Find inspiration in our suggestions to decorate your own home with your fantastic Mason jar finds:

Sip in Style in Your Kitchen

Let's start with the most obvious use for empty glass jars—drinking! As long as the rounded rim of the jar is free of cracks or chips, it can be used to enjoy your favorite beverages. Stock your cabinets with mismatched Ball jars to add a charming touch to your everyday beverages and table settings.  

If they come with the lid, sealable jars can also be used to store dried goods, such as flour, sugar, and even your favorite snacks! Add labels to keep your popcorn, candy, and other treats straight and tuck them away for later indulgences.

Add a Lived-in Feel to Your Living Room

Did you know Ball jars can be turned into planters? Add vintage details to your sunny living room windows or fireplace mantle by filling your favorite glass jars with succulents and spider plants. Talk about farmhouse-style chic!

Store Everyday Essentials in the Bathroom

The bathroom has some of the highest foot traffic in the home—so you might as well try to keep it organized! Vintage jars are perfect for keeping small items contained on the counter, whether that be cotton balls or toothbrushes. You could also consider purchasing specialized pump lids and filling the jars with soaps and lotions you love.

Give Your Bedroom a Subtle Makeover

There are plenty of ways to add Mason jars to your antique-filled bedroom. Many collectors use them for general storage to keep makeup brushes safe on the vanity or hair accessories on the nightstand. Paint the outside with your favorite color or wrap the jar with lace or twine to create a piece that fits your cottagecore aesthetic even more.

If you're a big reader or sleep with a nightlight on, consider turning your glass jar into a glowing pendant light. Just poke a hole through the lid, attach a light socket and bulb, and string it up to keep your bedside table clutter-free.  

Transform the Look of Your Dining Room

Give your collection of Ball jars their time in the spotlight by featuring them around your dining room. The next time you host a dinner party, consider turning your Mason jars into beautiful centerpieces. Fill them with tealights, pebbles, and fresh flowers to add a little rustic style to every tablescape.

Pro tip: Ball jars are also the perfect way to keep a buffet table organized. Glass jars can be placed around the serving dishes to hold the silverware, straws, and stir sticks your guests need.

Keep Your Home Office Tidy

Glass jars are a home office must-have. With a variety of sizes available at Indiana antique malls, Mason jars make it easy to keep pens, pencils, paper clips, and more organized and within reach at your beloved antique desk.

5 Stylish Ideas for Gifting Mason Jars

Share your love of the useful and stylish Mason jar by gifting them to your nearest and dearest. But don't settle for basic—elevate your favorite Ball jar to create a thoughtful present they'll cherish for years to come:

1. Craft a jam cocktail in the Ball jar and attach a "Will you be my bridesmaid?" note for members of your bridal party.

2. Fill with homemade holiday treats and wrap it up with a bow for Christmas goodies you can share with neighbors.

3. Make your own scented bath salts and seal them tightly for your friend's birthday.

4. Take advantage of an airtight seal and share your favorite jam recipe with family members.

5. Decorate the outside and fill with school supplies for your child's favorite teacher

Don't let the Mason jars go untouched at your local Algonquin vendor mall! Find a few in your preferred color and have fun exploring the many ways they can be used around the house. The lid's the limit!