Projects for empty jars by Deborah Nicholas

For Paint Party Friday I will show you my work so far for Ayala Art´s  29 faces in September. You can find what I did for May´s edition here.

Have you gathered all your jars this week?
Let me introduce you to my friend, author Deborah Nicholas. A fabulous mom of 5, talented scrapbooker, and awesome baker, she will give you ideas on what to do with your empty jars.
Thank you so much for having me as a guest and a huge hello to all your fabulous followers!

If youre anything like me you dont throw things away, its always saved and popped into the back of the cupboard to be kept for 'later'.
Well, that later is now :)
It takes a couple of minutes to make some fabulous gifts or simple seasoned foods. Fasten with ribbons and a swing tag and you will be left with a present that looks like an expensive store bought treat!

Here are a few samples of what you could make....
Maldon Sea Salt Flakes infused with Chilli - this will give a nice kick
to your cooking!

Vanilla Sugar - simple caster sugar with hidden vanilla pods. Use instead of plain sugar on strawberries for a decadent treat!

Virgin Chilli Oil - virgin olive oil with sea salt, chilli flakes and whole chillies. This would make a fabulous gift for a foodie who likes a little heat!!

Cupcakes or Cookies in a Jar - layer the dry ingredients for the recipient to bake at home themselves. Add a little swing tag with the method and wet ingredients they should add, pop on a baking temperature and time for a DIY gift.

Remember jars can be used for decoration too....simply pour a little paint in and swirl until the inside is covered. Hold upside down until the excess paint runs out then allow to dry. Voila custom pen pots or plant holders , colour co-ordinated to your decor!

I also store things in jars, whether it be bags of nuts and dried fruit (you just know those little self seal stickers on the bags will pop off exposing the contents to air - jars dont do that!) ;)
How about popping all of your cupcake cases into large jars or storage containers to display - it seems a shame to have such pretties hidden away!

Well, I hope I have given you at least a couple of ways to use those jars - please share what you do with yours! :)

You can find Debbie on line at her blog Country Heart and home and her Facebook page Frills and Fondant.
Her book "Gifts from the kitchen" is available for pre order at Amazon.