by Patricia Pearson & Ashley Stelck, Hansell & Halkett vintage home decor | photos by Amanda Cribdon Photography –
Spring is the time of year when we emerge from our winter hibernation. We are craving sunshine, bright colours and the smell of cut green grass. It’s the time of year to transform and to create, to cleanse and to reflect. Nothing says spring more than a big bunch of fresh field-cut daffodils, and this fun craft is a great way to pass the time on those rainy spring days! As always, we suggest using what you have at home, pulling inspiration from the outside and getting creative with colour and texture.
Tools & Supplies
- 500ml – 1000ml glass jars, labels removed
- Spring themed scrapbook paper, old cards and tissue paper
- ribbon
- DIY chalk paint (we used Country Chic Paint, a Duncan B.C. company)
- decorative paper birds or butterflies (optional)
- bamboo skewers
- hot glue gun
- glue or Mod Podge
- paintbrushes or sponge brushes
- fresh greenery and a few flowers
- craft paper or newspaper for protecting surfaces
Step 1 Cover your work surface with paper to protect it and provide easy cleanup. Wash and dry your jars before painting them. Drying time between coats will vary by brand, but allow around 20 to 30 minutes. Two coats should be perfect! If doing this craft with children six and under, we recommend painting the jars in advance, as patience levels may be tested!
Step 2 Paint on stripes, dots or swirls with different colours. This is a great step for all ages but may need a bit of supervision for younger hands.
Step 3 While jars are drying, cut out shapes like Easter eggs, flowers and butterflies. Once the paint on the jars has dried, glue your shapes onto the jars. We used a combination of hot glue and Mod Podge to create different textures and dimension.
Using old cards, magazines and gift wrap is a fun way to add an upcycled element to the craft. Get creative by cutting out the shapes and colours to create your own design. This is a wonderful way to teach kids about reusing.
Step 4 Use pre-cut shapes, or cut your own to glue onto the end of the bamboo skewers with the glue gun. These will be tucked into your arrangement and add a wonderful whimsical touch.
Step 5 Fill your jars with fresh water and tuck in a few stems of greenery, spring blooms and your decorative skewers.
A trip to the flower market may not be needed; for this step you can grab some clippers and pick a few stems from your backyard or a country hedgerow. Your arrangement will be perfectly seasonal and sustainable. Tie a ribbon around the top of the jar. Your centrepiece is complete!
Happy Spring!
