Other Uses for Canning Jars!

I work in an extension Office.  We are in contact with many groups.  We have a large data base to use when we need something for a class.  This summer we used donated canning jars for a 4-H camp.  We placed hose clamps on a 3’ x 12” board.  We tightened them up with the jars inside, and filled them with dirt and herb seeds.  The kids got to take home their own portable herb garden.  They decorated their boards with outside paint, and had a great time!  The picture with the herbs was our incentive.  I placed a stake on the back of mine to be able to stick it in the ground in my garden!  What a great way to use up old jars that cannot be used for canning anymore.

I received some half-gallon canning jars from my Aunt when she moved last fall.  I also found a cute craft for these!  I used them as table decorations at a birthday party.  I filled them half-way with sand, then added seashells on the top and some ribbon.  I had MANY seashells from our trips to the beach, so the whole idea cost me just $3 for a bag of sand!  I gave the decorations away after the party.  It was a win-win situation for everyone!   If you don’t have a wealth of people to ask for used jars, check out local yard sales and thrift stores.  People are always getting rid of old jars.  To see more ideas for using canning jars, maybe even for canning–check out these other great Recipe Redux blogs!