Halloween Mason Jar Crafts
Halloween mason jar crafts turn ordinary jars into little monsters, glowing lanterns, candy holders, and decorations with plenty of personality. Whether you want something cute for the kitchen counter or a creepy addition to your Halloween party table, these projects give you plenty of ways to get creative. Some involve a little paint and a few finishing touches, while others let you build an entire spooky scene inside the glass.
I love a craft that makes me look at something ordinary and immediately start planning its Halloween makeover. That empty jar? Clearly, it has potential to become a mummy. Add some eyes, a little texture, and possibly more glitter than originally planned, and suddenly it belongs on the mantel. These Halloween jar ideas are a fun excuse to pull out your supplies and make something that feels like your kind of spooky.
What Kind of Jars Can You Use for Halloween Crafts?
Start with the size and shape recommended in the tutorial. Mason jars work well for many of these projects, but some designs can also be adapted to clean, empty food jars.
A wide opening makes it easier to arrange decorations inside, while a smooth area on the glass gives you room to paint a face or apply a stencil. If the project needs a lid, make sure you have one that fits before getting started.
Wash your jars, remove labels and sticky residue, and let everything dry completely. Check for chips or cracks, too. A damaged jar is not the spooky surprise we’re trying to create.
How Should You Arrange Your Finished Jars?
Display your jars side by side on a stable surface instead of balancing glass jars on top of one another. You can create different heights with sturdy display risers or cake stands that comfortably support each piece.
Try grouping a few jars on an entryway table, arranging them along a mantel, or placing them on a tray with small pumpkins. Leave the faces and decorative details turned outward so everyone can appreciate your handiwork.
For lighted projects, battery-operated tea lights are a practical choice, especially around fabric, paper, and other craft materials. Keep the switches accessible so turning on your display doesn’t become its own Halloween puzzle.
Supplies for Decorating Halloween Mason Jars
Read your chosen tutorial before shopping, then check your craft stash. You may already have some of the finishing touches.
- Paint suited to glass: Check the label for surface preparation, drying, and curing instructions.
- Ribbon, twine, or fabric: Useful for adding texture or dressing up the neck of a jar.
- Craft foam and felt: Handy for character details such as ears, teeth, and eyebrows.
- Googly eyes and embellishments: Small additions can give a simple jar a wonderfully silly expression.
- Appropriate adhesive: Choose glue that works with both the glass and the material you’re attaching.
If a jar will hold food, keep ordinary craft paint, glue, and glitter away from food-contact surfaces. A decorated jar filled with individually wrapped candy is an easy option for gifting.
How Do You Keep Decorations Standing Inside a Jar?
For a miniature scene, arrange everything outside the jar first. Check that each piece fits through the opening and that you can reach its final position.
A small base hidden beneath decorative moss or another covering can help support lightweight figures. Follow the tutorial’s attachment method, and use long tweezers to position pieces when your fingers won’t comfortably fit.
My top tip: Choose the front of your jar before you start decorating. Turn any raised lettering or seams away from the main design when possible, then check how the finished scene will look from that angle.
16 Halloween Mason Jar Crafts to Try
You’ll love how much this Jack O’ lantern is to make, and how adorable it is! You’ll love to save these and use year over year!
Falling Stars Glitter Jars by Kids Activities Blog
This jar would be lovely anytime, but at Halloween, it feels simply mystical! Make a few and shake them up anytime you need a little daydream escape!
Mason Jar Mummy by Mixed Kreations
This easy mason jar craft is perfect for a last minute way to wrap up your decor!
Fishnet Jars by Cutefetti
This tutorial walks you through how to make instant ambiance with these unique and pretty fishnet jars!
Painters Tape Halloween Jars by The Happiest Camper
Get creative with some handy blue tape to create these epic Halloween jars that you will certainly want to display year after year!
Pumpkin Mason Jars by Sustain My Craft Habit
Make mason jars into the ideal fall decor with this upcycle project. These are perfect to display all over the house!
Creepy Halloween Mason Jars by Hunny I’m Home
These erie crafts are the perfect way to add a little spook to your spectacular Halloween decor.
Spider Lanterns by Bitz n Giggles
These creepy crawly jars are easy to assemble and perfect for a last minute touch of eek to your decor!
Halloween Terrariums by Today’s Creative Life
A mason jar makes the perfect creepy display with these Halloween terrariums!
Halloween Cookie Jars by Oh My Creative
Mix up a batch of homemade cookie mix and pop it into a festive jar for a unique way to share some cheer this Halloween!
Black Cat Mason Jar by The Inspiration Vault
This tutorial will have you painting some adorable black cat jars, just in time to display at Halloween!
Halloween Lanterns by The Country Chic Cottage
These DIY lanterns are made of a jar, and they certainly hold a ton of festive fun! Paint a few for yourself this fall.
Sugar Skull Mason Jars by Ann’s Entitled Life
These sugar skull jars make for a fantastic decoration to display around the house to add just the right touch to your decor!
Glass Jar Pumpkins by DIY Candy
These jars are super cute and perfect to display all fall! I love that they have a retro vibe to them!
Zombie Mason Jars by Crafts by Amanda
If you are fond of the undead, then this is the perfect mason jar craft for you. The step by step instructions will have you painting a zombie jar in no time!
Mason Jar Monsters by Mommy Made That
This cute monster would be glad to keep an eye on your Halloween candy!
Give an Ordinary Jar a Halloween Makeover
Start with the project that makes you want to pull out your supplies, whether that’s a friendly pumpkin, a mummy, or a jar full of spooky little details. You don’t need to make the entire collection to create a fun display. One finished craft is a perfectly good afternoon.
Before packing your jars away after Halloween, let everything dry and cure according to the materials you used. Remove batteries from lighted decorations, cushion the glass, and protect any pieces that stick out. A little careful storage gives your creations a better chance of returning for another Halloween.
Which one are you making first? Tell me in the comments! I’m especially interested in any monster that looks like it caught someone sneaking the last piece of candy.
More Halloween Recipes and Crafts
Keep the Halloween fun going with these projects and treats:
- Frankenstein cupcakes for an edible little monster.
- Halloween cookie recipes for a spooky baking afternoon.
- Halloween craft ideas for more handmade decorating inspiration.
- Pumpkin tea light decorations for another glowing Halloween project.
- Halloween dessert ideas for something sweet after the crafting is finished.
