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These cute cow mason jars go great with farmhouse decor and make lovely centrepieces for a country-themed party, bridal shower, or barn wedding. I like making these with the large jars (32 oz.) but you can make them any size to suit your needs.

Don’t worry, even if you are not super crafty or artistic, this is one mason jar craft that anyone can pull off!

I will take you through the whole process step-by-step. If you’re more of a visual learner, check out the video tutorial at the end of this post.

Black & White Cow Print Mason Jars Materials

Here is a list of all the supplies you will need to paint your super cute cow mason jar!

• Mason Jar
• 70% Rubbing Alcohol
• Pencil
• Medium-sized flat paintbrush
• Small round tip paintbrush or liner brush
• Palette or plastic plate
• White Paint (chalk paint, acrylic, or multi-surface)
• Black paint (acrylic, multi-surface, or enamel)
• Fine grit sandpaper sanding sponge, or block (OPTIONAL)
• Mod Podge or other acrylic sealer
• Jute cord, twine, or lace ribbon

1. Clean & Prepare The Mason Jar

If you are using a brand-new jar, simply clean the outside of it with rubbing alcohol and a paper towel. This is to ensure no fingerprints or oils from your hands are on the jar which helps the paint adhere better to the glass.

If you are upcycling a jar from your pantry be sure to wash it thoroughly in warm soapy water. If the jar has a label, soak it in hot soapy water until the label falls off.

Any residual glue can be removed with Goo-Gone or a mixture of Lemon essential oil and dish soap (I like blue Dawn).

Rinse the jar well and let dry completely.

2. Paint The Jar White

Pour the white paint onto a disposable plastic plate or palette. You don’t need anything fancy here, you can even use the lid from an old margarine tub as a paint palette.

If you choose to use chalk paint and the can is on the small side just dip your paintbrush right in and skip the palette.

• Use a medium flat brush for this step, maybe an inch wide or so.
• Hold the jar by the rim and paint the body first.
• Apply the paint using vertical and horizontal brush strokes.

Don’t worry about this first coat looking perfect or the brushstrokes being visible. As a matter of fact, having some brushstrokes visible on the finished project gives it a rustic look which I actually think looks quite nice!

You can also pounce the paint on with a sponge dobber instead of a paintbrush. This painting technique eliminates brushstrokes and give the jar a textured look.

Do not paint the bottom of the jar yet, this way you can set it on your work surface without making a mess. You paint the bottom at the very end.

• Once the body is painted with the first coat, set the jar on the table and paint the rim.
• Use a smaller brush for this step to get in the threads of the jar if you like.
• Remember, these cow print Mason jars are meant to look rustic so they don’t need to be perfect. Don’t overthink it!

Quick Tip:

If you plan to have a lid on your finished jar apply only a thin coat of paint on the threads at the top otherwise the metal band won’t screw on properly. OR, don’t paint this part at all.

• Let the jar dry completely, for a couple of hours or preferably overnight.

• Paint a second coat of white using the same process as the first.

• At the very end, flip your jar upside down and paint the bottom. Alternatively, you can leave the bottom unpainted, it’s entirely up to you. Artistic license, right??

• Let the second coat dry completely.

3. Distress Jar With Sandpaper

If you want your cow Mason jar to have a more rustic or shabby chic look, you can distress the jar by removing some of the paint with fine grit sandpaper or a sanding block.

• Simply sand off as little or as much as you want.
• Focus on the raised parts of the glass like the lettering, the threads on the neck of the jar, and the bottom edge.
• After sanding, wipe down the jar thoroughly with a dry cloth to remove the dust residue.

Draw On Cow Spots With Pencil

Using a light pencil, draw on cow print spots in random places. If you need a little inspiration for the shape of the splotches, just search up cow print pattern on Google or Pinterest and there will be tons you can copy.

Again, remember there is no right or wrong way to paint a cow print shape but I will say, don’t overcrowd your black spots.

Leave enough white (negative) space on your design. If you mess up, just erase it and try again!

Paint The Cow Spots Black

Pour a little black paint onto your palette. For this step, I do not recommend chalk paint. I prefer using high-quality multi-surface acrylic craft paint or enamel paint because I find they are richer and more pigmented.

I love the way Folk Art multisurface paint goes on so that’s what I recommend using.

With a small round paintbrush brush or liner brush, paint over top of the pencil line with black paint. Then fill in the spot.

Take your time and have fun with it. A liner brush works better for this step because it gives you more control over the finer edges and details.

If you feel you need to do a second coat you can but I usually don’t. The black paint covers very well with just one. Allow the jar to dry overnight.

Apply Sealer

To ensure your cow print Mason jar lasts it’s best to seal it. I use a wide flat brush and paint on a thin coat of Modpodge to do this.

Take care around the grooves and the rim as it can get a little goopy in these areas so use a smaller paintbrush. Just be sure you get every area of the jar.

You can also use different types of clearcoat. I really like using this DecoArt Satin Varnish for my projects. You can also use a spray can sealer. If you choose something like polycrylic spray, I recommend a “non-yellowing” Minwax Protective Finish Spray.

Using the same technique as when you painted the white, do the bottom at the very end by placing the jar upside down on your work surface.

Mason Jar Lid

To lid or not to lid, that is the question…the answer is, it’s entirely up to you. If you want to keep it simple, just screw the metal band on the top. If you are using the jar as a piggy bank or a container to hold Christmas candies or something similar, you will need the lid and the band.

You can also choose to paint the lid and the metal band with black paint. Apply 2 coats and seal with clearcoat when dry.

Finishing Touches

Once your cow jar is completely dry, it’s time to make it extra pretty with some finishing touches! I like the simplicity of tying a length of skinny jute cord around the neck of the jar but I have also used burlap and lace ribbon.

At Christmas time, a red or green and red plaid ribbon tied in a bow looks cute and festive.

Hit Pinterest or Etsy for inspiration as to how to finish of your masterpiece. The possibilities are endless! I’ve even seen these cow print Mason jars with a small cowbell tied onto the top, very country-chic.

I hope you found this step-by-step process helpful and easy to follow. If you are a visual learner, check out the short video below and you can watch me paint one of these.

Cow Print Mason Jars Uses

Well, since you’re already here, I assume you know why you want to paint a cow jar, haha… but if not, here are some suggested uses:

• Centerpieces for any type of country-themed party celebration
• Farm birthday party
• Bridal shower
• Baby Shower
• Farmhouse Decor
• Flower Vase
• Storage Container for kitchen utensils, pens & pencils, paintbrushes
• Money Jar or Bank for kids
• Perfect gift idea for cow lovers!

They are the cutest DIY cow mason jars ever and are easy enough for even a beginner to make! Happy crafting!

Until next time, Luna

You May Also Like:

• Cow Print Mason Jars: Cute & Easy DIY
• Smush Painting For Babies, Toddlers & Kids
• 25 Christmas Wine Glass Painting Ideas to Brighten Your Holidays
• Create Your DIY Christmas Mason Jar Luminaries!
• How To Paint Wine Glasses: Cheers To DIY Creativity!

Luna Selene Creations is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

The post Cow Print Mason Jars: Cute & Easy DIY appeared first on Luna Selene Creations.

Looking for a fun and festive way to decorate your home for the holidays? Look no further than DIY Christmas Mason Jar Luminaries! These charming decorations are easy to make and add a warm glow to any room.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the process of creating your own luminaries, from gathering supplies to personalizing the finished product. Get ready to add some homemade charm to your holiday decor!

Some of my blog posts may contain affiliate links, from which I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Key Takeaways:

• Create your own DIY Christmas Mason Jar Luminaries for a cozy and festive atmosphere.
• Gather all the necessary supplies, including mason jars, fairy lights or tea lights, and decorative materials.
• Personalize your luminaries with ribbons, ornaments, and other creative elements.
• Display your finished products in your home for a warm and inviting ambiance.
• Spread the joy of DIY by giving homemade luminaries as gifts or hosting a crafting session with loved ones.

Gather Your Supplies

Let’s get started with the first step of creating your very own DIY Christmas Mason Jar Luminaries – gathering your supplies! Here’s what you’ll need for this holiday craft:

• Mason jars
• Decorative elements like ribbons, small pine cones, silk greenery, or ornaments
• Fairy lights or tea lights
• Acrylic, multi-surface, or glass paint, Mod Podge, glitter, Epsom salt
• Any other materials you want to use to personalize your luminaries

These supplies are easy to find and affordable, making this the perfect DIY project for any budget. If you don’t have mason jars on hand, you can easily find them at your local craft store, dollar store, or online. You can even repurpose a pickle or a large jam jar for this project!

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your decorative elements. You can use anything from pine cones and cinnamon sticks to glitter and paint to give your luminaries a unique and personal touch.

Before we dive into the details of each item, make sure you have a clean and comfortable workspace to work on your project. Now, let’s move on to preparing your mason jars.

Prep Your Mason Jars

Now that you have all the necessary supplies for your DIY Christmas Mason Jar Luminaries, it’s time to prepare the jars for the transformation. First, clean your mason jars thoroughly using soap and water. If you are upcycling food storage jars, make sure to remove any labels or residue that may interfere with the overall look of your luminaries.

You may need to use a product such as Goo-Gone to get rid of stubborn sticky label glue.

For an extra sparkly finish, try using a glass cleaner, rubbing alcohol, or vinegar and water solution and a microfiber cloth. Make sure to dry the jars completely before moving on to the next step.

Once your jars are clean and dry, it’s time to add some festive touches to them. You can use paints, glitter, or other decorative techniques to give your jars a unique look that matches your holiday decor. For example, you can use stencils to paint snowflakes or other holiday designs onto the jars. Or, you can use silver or gold glitter to add a touch of sparkle.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your jars and let your imagination guide you. Remember, the key to creating beautiful and unique luminaries is to personalize them according to your taste and style.

Decorative Techniques for Mason Jar Luminaries:

• Using stencils, paint, or paint pens to create holiday designs
• Using Mod Podge and tissue paper to create a stained glass effect
• Applying Mod Podge and a mixture of Epsom salt & white glitter for a faux snow look
• Wrapping twine or hot gluing ribbon around the jar’s neck
• Adding holiday-themed stickers or decals

Once you’ve finished preparing your mason jars, it’s time to move on to the next step: adding the lighting.

Add the Fairy Lights or Tea Lights

This is where the magic begins! It’s time to add the lighting element to your mason jar luminaries. Whether you choose fairy lights or tea lights, the right lighting can make your luminaries truly magical.

If you’re using fairy lights, begin by coiling them inside your jar, making sure that the cord is tucked away neatly. If you prefer to use battery-operated tea lights, you can place them on the bottom of the jar and secure them with a bit of hot glue or double-sided tape so they don’t move around too much.

For an extra touch, consider mixing and matching different light colors or using scented candles to add a delightful aroma to your home. Only use real candles if all your paint and decorations are strictly on the outside of the jar. With the right lighting, your mason jar luminaries will create a cozy and inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for the holiday season.

Creative Ideas

If you’re feeling extra creative, there are many ways to add a unique twist to your mason jar luminaries. For example, try wrapping some twine or burlap ribbon around the rim of the jar to give it a rustic look. Alternatively, you could paint the jar with festive colors or patterns, such as snowflakes, snowman faces, or holly leaves.

If you’re using tea lights, you could add some decorative elements with a glue gun on top of the jar to create a charming scene. For instance, you could place some small figurines or miniature Christmas trees on the bottom of the jar and then arrange some fake snow or pinecones on top of them.

Overall, there are endless possibilities when it comes to creating your own unique mason jar luminaries that perfectly fit your holiday decor. Let your creativity flow and enjoy the process!

• Use fairy lights or tea lights to add a magical glow to your luminaries.
• Experiment with different light colors or scented candles.
• Personalize your luminaries with decorative twine, ribbon, or painted patterns.
• Add small figurines or fake snow on top of tea lights to create a charming scene.

Personalize Your Luminaries

Now comes the fun part of creating your DIY Christmas Mason Jar Luminaries – personalizing them! The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing these beauties. You can add your creative touch to make them fit perfectly with your holiday decor. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

1. Ribbon or Twine

Adding ribbons or twine to your mason jar luminaries is an effortless way to give them a rustic and cozy look. You can use burlap ribbon, red plaid, or any other pattern that matches your style. Wrap it around the center of the jar and tie a bow to finish off the look.

2. Ornaments

Hang some small ornaments inside your jar for a little bit of extra sparkle. You can choose classic baubles or go for a more whimsical option, such as felt snowflakes or gingerbread men. Use thin wire or string to attach them to the inside of the lid, and make sure they hang down slightly.

3. Paints or Glitter

If you’re feeling crafty, grab some glass paints or glitter and give your jars a festive touch. You can use stencils to create shapes like stars or Christmas trees, or let your creativity run wild with freehand designs. For a more subtle effect, use glitter to add just a touch of shine.

4. Natural Elements

For a more organic look, try adding some natural elements to your luminaries. Pine cones, cinnamon sticks, or holly berries are all perfect choices. Tie them to the jar with twine or ribbon, or simply place them inside the jar with the lights. All these elements can be secured with a hot glue gun, Krazy Glue, or Gorilla Glue.

With these ideas and a little bit of imagination, you’ll have unique and beautiful mason jar luminaries in no time. These personalized decorations will add a touch of warmth and charm to your holiday decor, and will surely impress your guests.

Display and Enjoy

Now that you have created your beautiful Christmas jar decorations, it’s time to display them and enjoy the warm and festive atmosphere they bring to your home.

Consider placing your luminaries on your mantel, dining table, or bookshelf to create a cozy ambiance. You can also hang them from your ceiling or porch to add some outdoor holiday decor.

Remember to always practice safety when using candles or lights inside your mason jars. Keep them away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.

With your Christmas jar decorations shining bright, sit back, relax, and enjoy the holiday season with your loved ones.

Share the Joy of DIY

One of the best things about creating your own homemade holiday crafts is that you can share them with others and spread the joy of DIY. Your friends and family will be impressed by your festive DIY ideas, and they’ll appreciate the effort you put into making their gifts extra special.

Make Extra Luminaries to Give as Gifts

If you want to give homemade holiday crafts as gifts, mason jar luminaries are an excellent choice. They’re easy to make, and you can customize them to suit anyone’s taste and style. Consider using their favorite colors or adding “Christmas 2023” (or whatever the year) on it somewhere to make the luminaries memorable.

You could also make luminaries for your coworkers or neighbors. Tie them up with a decorative bow, and you have a thoughtful gift that everyone will enjoy. If you have school-aged kids, these mason jar lanterns make an excellent teacher Christmas gift!

Host a Crafting Session with Friends and Family

If you’re looking for a fun and festive DIY project to do with friends and family, consider hosting a mason jar luminary crafting session. Get everyone together and provide the necessary supplies, such as mason jars, fairy lights or tea lights, and decorations. Then, guide everyone through the process of making their own unique luminaries.

It’s a great way to spend time together and create lasting memories. Plus, you’ll all have beautiful homemade decorations to take home and enjoy.

DIY Christmas Mason Jar Luminaries Are The Perfect Homemade Holiday Craft

There’s nothing quite like homemade holiday crafts to add charm and character to your home during the festive season. With these DIY Christmas Mason Jar Luminaries, you can create magical and beautiful lighting that will impress your family and friends. Plus, these luminaries also make for great gift ideas that your loved ones will appreciate and cherish for years to come.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your supplies, unleash your creativity, and light up your holidays with your own DIY Christmas Mason Jar Luminaries!

Happy Holidays!

Love, Luna

FAQ

How long do mason jar luminaries last?

Mason jar luminaries can last for several hours, depending on the type of light source used. Tea lights typically burn for 4-6 hours, while fairy lights can last up to 12 hours or more. Make sure to keep an eye on the candles or lights and never leave them unattended.

Can I use battery-operated lights instead of candles?

Absolutely! Battery-operated fairy lights are a safe and convenient alternative to traditional candles. They come in various colors and can create a beautiful ambiance without any fire risk. Just make sure to choose lights that fit inside your mason jars and have a long battery life.

Can I put fresh flowers or other perishable items inside the luminaries?

It’s not recommended to place perishable items, such as fresh flowers or food, inside the mason jar luminaries. The heat generated by the candles or lights can cause them to wilt or spoil quickly. Instead, focus on using non-perishable decorative elements like ribbons, ornaments, or artificial flowers.

Are mason jar luminaries safe to use outdoors?

Mason jar luminaries can be used outdoors, but it’s important to protect them from the elements. If using real candles, make sure the jars are shielded from wind or rain to prevent accidents. Battery-operated lights are a safer option for outdoor use, as they are not affected by weather conditions. Always exercise caution and follow safety guidelines when using any type of lighting.

Can I reuse the mason jars for other crafts after the holiday season?

I suppose you could. Mason jars are versatile and can be reused for a variety of crafts throughout the year. Once the holiday season is over, you can remove the decorative elements and repurpose the jars for storage, vases, candle holders, or even as containers for homemade gifts. But why destroy all your hard work and effort? I would just get more Mason jars instead.

How can I clean the mason jars after using them as luminaries?

If you do decide to reuse your jar for a new project, cleaning mason jars after using them as luminaries is relatively simple. Start by removing any remaining candle wax or debris. Soak the jars in warm soapy water to loosen any residue, then scrub them gently with a sponge or brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry them well before storing or reusing. Avoid soaking the metallic lids, as they may rust.

Can I personalize the mason jar luminaries with paint or decorations on the outside?

Absolutely! Adding your personal touch to the outside of the mason jar luminaries is a great way to customize them. You can use acrylic paints, glitters, stickers, or any other decorative materials that suit your style. Just make sure to let the jars dry completely before adding the lights or candles inside.

Can I use scented candles inside the mason jar luminaries?

Yes, you can use scented candles inside the mason jar luminaries to create a pleasing aroma. However, be mindful of any potential allergies or sensitivities that may be present. It’s always a good idea to test the scent in a small area before lighting the candle to ensure it doesn’t overpower the space or cause any discomfort.

Luna Selene Creations is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

The post Create Your DIY Christmas Mason Jar Luminaries! appeared first on Luna Selene Creations.