One of the benefits of drying your own herbs from the garden is that you always have plenty. When I dehydrate a batch of basil herbs, I end up with tons more than could possibly fit into a single, repurposed spice jar. So I needed a way to store my garden fresh herbs that would be attractive and pretty, but still simple.
You will need:
- Valspar Chalkboard Spray Paint (be sure to get the kind specifically for metal)
- A case of canning mason jars (half-pint size)
- Room to spray away!
Lay the lids of the mason jars out so the edges aren’t touching. Spray an even coat of paint on the lids and let the paint dry.
I needed to do two full coats of paint because of the way the lids are uneven. One time, one direction, and the next time, the next direction. Once they are evenly coated, let the lids dry completely.
Once they are dry, you can use a simple stick of chalk to mark the mason jars for whatever herb, spice, or seasoning mix you have in there at the moment. One half-pint jar will hold one full batch from my dehydrator so it’s just the right size.
If you’re using them for long-term storage, consider using a moisture absorber. We have used a few grains of rice at the bottom of the of the jars to help absorb any humidity and keep the herbs more fresh.
Plus, they look so beautiful! Who doesn’t love a good mason jar craft?
Renee Fischer says
where is the like button? waaay too cute!
AngEngland says
Thanks! I really love how it turned out – please do share!
Terry Swick says
Yeah, I love this idea, too!!! I’m always tearing pieces of paper, writing whatever is in the jar on that piece of paper, then just scotch-taping it to the jar. Doesn’t look too attractive, right? So, when I saw this, I thought, “I just have to try this!”. Heading to Lowe’s or Home Depot now! LOL. Thanks for posting. What an awesome idea! ๐
Mary Woollard says
I’m just now starting to dry my herbs and this is adorable!! I will have to try this out this weekend!!
Adrienne @ Whole New Mom says
Love this! I’ve got my spices in jars but the chalkboard paint I hadn’t thought of. I was going to cover them in fabric but this is so much easier. Thanks!
AngEngland says
The Valspar spray paint I got at Lowe’s made it SO easy. Be sure to get the one marked “for metal” and you should be good! ๐
Adrienne @ Whole New Mom says
Sharing on Fb right now. ๐
Kim R says
Every time I open the lid of something I’ve canned I think that it’s a waste to throw away that lid but I can’t reuse it to can again. Now I’ll save them and give them second life by painting them as you’ve done! Great idea. Thank you!
Shana D says
Oh my gosh these are too darn cute! I am tempted to throw out all of my spice plastic jars and replace with these.
Thamar says
I just got the best idea EVER how to grow my own herbs in a small way! Thanks!
Susan C says
Without the chalk or paint or extra effort, the grease pencil works great too?
AngEngland says
I really like the rustic look of the chalk and the spray paint took literally five minutes. I haven’t tried a grease pencil but it would probably work well. This fits better with our kitchen decor. ๐ Did you see the spinning rack my husband built to hold them? http://www.untrainedhousewife.com/diy-mason-jar-spinning-spice-rack-lowescreator