Mason jars have been part of my home for years. I’ve used them for decorating, organizing, baking, and gifting, and decorating with mason jars is still one of the simplest ways to add a personal touch to any room. Their humble farmhouse roots make them feel right at home in both traditional and modern spaces.
I remember the first time I saw vintage blue mason jars lined up on a shelf in someone’s kitchen. It was in a magazine, although I don’t remember which one. From that moment on, I was smitten. I searched online until I found a small collection I could afford, and when they arrived, wrapped in newspaper, it felt like Christmas. That original group of jars is the heart of my collection, and I still use them today.
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Why Mason Jars Are Still Worth Keeping
Over the years, trends have come and gone, but mason jars have stayed. Not because they’re trendy, but because they work. Here’s why I continue to keep and use mine:
- They’re useful beyond decor. From pantry storage to fresh flowers, they move easily between rooms and purposes.
- They transition through every season. Herbs in summer, branches in fall, evergreens in winter, they adapt without effort.
- They don’t compete with other styles. Whether your home leans traditional, transitional, farmhouse, or somewhere in between, they quietly blend in.
- They store well when not in use. Tucked into a cabinet or stacked on a shelf, they take up very little space.
- They don’t feel precious. If one chips or clouds over time, it only adds character. They’re meant to be used.
A Little History
The Mason jar was patented in 1858 by John Landis Mason as a practical solution for home food preservation. The familiar two-part lid, a flat sealing disc and outer band, created an airtight vacuum that made safe canning possible. While their original purpose was preserving food, it didn’t take long for people to find other uses for these sturdy glass jars. Over time, companies like Ball, Kerr, and others produced mason jars in a variety of sizes. Vintage blue jars are especially beloved, but clear glass remains the most common, and the most versatile.
Sizes + Colors
Mason jars come in a wide range of sizes, from small jelly jars to larger wide-mouth versions. I personally prefer wide-mouth jars because they’re easier to fill and clean. Vintage blue jars are my favorite, but clear glass works beautifully in almost any setting.
How I Use Mason Jars Now
I don’t use mason jars quite the way I once did. Over time, I’ve simplified how I use them. There are fewer ribbons and bows, and more everyday storage and practical use. Sometimes I place a single jar where it’s needed, and other times I group a few together to make a quiet statement. Most of all, I focus on using the jars I already own instead of adding more.
As Decor
Using mason jars as decor has simply become part of how I decorate my home. They make lovely vases for flowers, greenery, or herbs throughout the year. Sometimes I group a few together to make a statement, but more often I enjoy the quiet simplicity of a single jar filled with something seasonal.
As Storage
Mason jars double as storage in the pantry, kitchen, and even craft spaces. They’re practical, easy to see through, and sturdy enough for everyday use. This is probably where they shine the most in my home now.
- Cotton swabs
- Buttons + craft supplies
- Oatmeal, barley, etc.
- Baking soda, baking powder, salt, etc.
- Herbs + spices
- Cereal + granola
- Cupcake liners
- Kitchen utensils
- Cutlery/flatware
- Food storage: homemade sauces, honey, leftover broth, store-bought salsa, fresh veggies, homemade goodies.
As Packaging
I love packaging gifts in mason jars, especially when the situation calls for something homemade. They are still a beautiful and practical option. A jar of soup, granola, or roasted nuts feels thoughtful without being overdone.
- They are a very pretty packaging idea for homemade sugar scrubs.
- Use a mason jar to deliver chicken noodle soup to a loved one.
- Salted roasted pecans in a mason jar is the perfect all-occasion gift.
- Fill a mason jar with Chex mix.
- Mason jars are the best way to store homemade applesauce. (In the refrigerator for a short period of time.)
- Make a big batch of olive oil granola…keep some, and give some away in a mason jar.
- Place homemade flavored butter in a mason jar.
- Keep the bugs away with DIY citronella candles.
Wooden Lids
Wooden lids are a practical update if you use mason jars for pantry storage. They’re not meant for canning, but they provide a clean, finished look for everyday use. Regular mouth wood lids/wide mouth wood lids.
Frequently Asked Questions
I don’t use mason jars the same way I once did, but I still find them just as useful. They’re simple, flexible, and unfussy, and those are qualities I value more than ever at home. If you’ve been wondering whether to keep yours, I hope this helps.
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Love your posts. Just ordered 3 blue Ball jars from EBay!
I love my mason jars. I have a collection of clear special edition ones that are so pretty. I also have a collection of the blue quart size which I display in the old wire canner lifters. My favorites though are a few quart and half gallon sizes that were discovered in the cellar of my Mamaw & Papaw’s home in Virginia.
give me a heads up were did you get the wood lids
Here is the link to the lids: https://amzn.to/4slxXw8 Thanks!
I’ve saved three sizes of blue mason jars. Thank you the ideas as to how to decorate with them! I was wondering if you could recommend an app that takes a photo and makes it appear as if it’s a watercolor. I have several pictures of our old family home and a cottage that I would like to try this on and then share with my sisters.
Have a wonderful week!
Hi Betsy…the only app I know of is called Waterlogue. It’s got several different styles, but I have tried it, and they tend to convey very heavy brushstrokes. I use a combination of digital tools, but not one specific app. I wish I could be more helpful. Thank you!
When I started following you several years ago, you made me fall in love with vintage mason jars. Now I have my own collection.
I have found that placing fresh, unwashed fruit, especially berries, in mason jars and storing in the refrigerator works great. The fruit last longer, and the vertical jars take up less space than the typical square containers the fruit comes in.
I love this tip. Thank you!