Four Clever Ways to Upcycle Empty Glass Jars

Recycling is good. Reusing is even better. Before you toss that empty spread or jam jar in the recycling bin, consider giving it a second life.

Cake queen Katherine Sabbath is famous for her whimsical creations, and she is just as creative when it comes to empty jars. Here are four of her favourite ideas, perfect for a rainy afternoon or the school holidays. Crafting is also a lovely, mindful way to switch off from screens.

1. A pretty and practical pen holder

You will need: spray paint, an empty jar, self-adhesive lace tape, double-sided tape, cord or string, scissors and pens.

1. Spray paint the jar in your favourite colour and let it dry.
2. Wrap double-sided tape around the threaded neck of the jar.
3. Wind cord or string over the tape so it stays firmly in place.
4. Add rows of lace tape around the jar.
5. Fill with pens and enjoy a tidier desk.

2. A money box for a savings goal

You will need: a jar with a lid, acrylic paint and an acrylic pen, self-adhesive film, a craft knife and small tweezers.

1. Cut small hearts or shapes from the film and stick them on the jar, leaving space to write your goal.
2. Paint the jar and let it dry. Add a second coat if needed.
3. Peel off the stickers with tweezers to reveal clear glass shapes.
4. Carefully cut a coin slot, about 3 to 4 centimetres long, into the lid. Adults should handle the craft knife.
5. Write your savings goal in the space and start filling it up.

3. A glow-in-the-dark lantern

You will need: a large jar, paper stencils (stars, eggs or festive shapes all work), fluorescent paint, coloured paper, scissors and sticky tape.

1. Draw your designs on coloured paper and cut out the inside to make stencils.
2. Tape the stencils to the jar.
3. Spray fluorescent paint over the cut-out areas.
4. Remove the paper to reveal glowing shapes.

4. A mini jar garden

You will need: a jar, pebbles, potting mix and small plants such as succulents or herbs.

1. Add about 2 centimetres of pebbles to the bottom for drainage.
2. Fill with potting mix up to the top third.
3. Add your plants and top up with soil, pressing gently.
4. Water lightly and make sure no water pools at the bottom.

Indoor plants are a simple way to bring a little nature inside. For more easy wellbeing ideas, explore our Healthy Living Tips.