Ok. I am totally in love with these jars. I don’t normally share crafty things on the blog but these are so cute and since they make some lovely packaging for giving foods as gifts I just had to share it with you before Christmas. I originally got this idea from wit & whistle and since I’m kind of obsessed with everything chalkboard I had to give it a go.

I love this project for so many reasons. The results are rustic and give the jam or preserves an artisan feel. It really doesn’t use up much paint at all, so it’s a cheap way to add something special to jars that you’re gifting. The receivers of the jars can keep the lid and relabel it for storing other treasures. The fact that the chalkboard is on the lid means that if they’re into canning themselves they can re-use the jar for their own canning project and just discard the lid, no harm done. And the whole project is just so easy peasy.

Here’s what you do.

Step One

Using chalkboard paint (you can make your own if you like), paint the centre of the lid with a paint brush. It’s supposed to look rustic and homemade so it doesn’t have to be perfect. I used only one coat of paint even though the paint I used recommended two coats. It’s a disposable part of the jar so I didn’t feel the need for two coats. Once painted, let dry for 24 hours or follow the instructions on the paint you’re using.

Step Two

Once dry, take a piece of chalk and rub it onto the dried paint, to condition it. If the chalk doesn’t seem to be adhering very well, just keep rubbing, it will eventually start working better. A few of them had little strips of paint that came off when I rubbed the chalk on them but I didn’t clean the lids very well before adding paint, so you may want to clean them more thoroughly or add a coat of primer, before painting. I wasn’t bothered by it though because I think it just adds to the charm, so it’s up to you. Once you’re satisfied with the coating of chalk, wipe it off and start labelling!

A few more tips

• Remove the ring before starting the project so you’re not trying to work around it.

• Add a cute scarf by tying on a piece of fabric or yarn. Or add a cute tag.

• Use the chalkboard to write who it’s to and from, what it is, or just do a drawing.

• Feel free to use this idea for more then just preserves. There are lot’s of gifts to be given in jars, and not just limited to food.

Have fun!