Repost from 2001, The Arizona Republic

Just because you can't whip up a batch of orange marmalade doesn't mean you shouldn't purchase a case of Mason jars. They're useful in plenty of ways.

Sure, you can fill them up with goodies and give them as gifts, but duh, everybody knows that. But when was the last time you saw a Mason jar morphed into a snow globe?

And with a luchador inside?

We rest our case.

Supplies:
* 1 Mason jar with lid
* loose translucent glitter
* glue gun
* E6000 glue
* Waterproof ornament or action figure
Separate the lid from the outer ring. Glue an ornament or action figure to the underside of the lid and let dry. Fill the jar with water 1 inch from top, sprinkle the glitter in it and set aside.
Take the lid with the ornament glued on, flip it over and place inside the jar of water. Press down firmly to seal. Using your finger, spread a thin layer of E6000 glue around the seam and press firmly until it sets. Tightly screw the outer ring onto the jar.
Let dry for two hours before flipping. Don't stop there -- decorate the outside with paint pens, beads, ribbon or raffia. A little flair doesn't hurt!
Other ideas for Mason jars:
* Walkway luminarias: Fill the bottom of each jar with 1 1/2 inches of colored sand or Epson salt. Set a votive candle inside. Finish with a festive ribbon or raffia around the ridge.
* Forget the walkway and use the same concept for a table centerpiece. Gather them on a mirrored tray.
* Decorate the outside of jar, fill jar with water and colored glitter and place a floating candle inside.

* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Cinco DeMayo, holiday, Latin-inspired, recycled