Recently I was talking to a friend about the popularity of Mason Jar projects (thanks Pinterest). While I like to repurpose the jars I already have, you might need to buy them in “bulk” or want a more traditional mason jar look. I found the real deal Mason Jars at Big Lots for just $8 for 12 pints and $9 for 12 quart size jars! That’s a great price! (Amazon runs $15 for 12 pints!). So I thought I would buy them to use in a cute DIY gift in a jar project.
How to Make DIY Ombre Candy Jars
While I was shopping at Big Lots, the candy aisle caught my attention (for more reasons than one!). But mostly for all that color! This is where I got the inspiration to make a DIY Ombre Candy Jar. Ombre is a term that describes when one color graduates in shade/tone. Think of starting with a deep navy blue and fading up to a soft sky blue. To create a sweet ombre look, I scoured the candy aisle for colors in all shades. All the candy I used (except the marshmallows that were a grocery store Easter clearance find) came from Big Lots.
To start, divide the pieces up by type. You will then start layering them in the jar. I will say certain items do better as a base (like those chocolates). So you will just have to pay around a little with the order. This project will be a bit of trial and error when you are layering in each color. In fact I had to dump the red/pink jar several times to get it just right.
I would also say, be sure to buy more of each color. For instance, I was surprised by how many Mike and Ikes it took to make one “layer”. Also don’t be afraid to “alter” the candy. I thought the licorice would be cute standing straight up in the center, but I ended up cutting them down to bite size pieces for their own layer.
Now these jars are adorable on their own with just some pretty ribbon. But you know I love a printable gift tag! 😉 So I created a few for you to use- tie them on with ribbon or tape them on like a label. These jar gifts would be perfect for a teacher gift, thank you or just because!
Orange You Glad We’re Friends Printable Tags
Orange you glad it’s Summer Printable Tags
Roses are Red, But Candy is Sweeter Printable Tags
You are My Sunshine Printable Tags
What color would you create? Any fave candies that you would have to include?
Originally published in 2015 as a Big Lots Ambassador for the Columbus based company. I was compensated by Big Lots for this post. All opinions are my own, and yes I am a Big Lots shopper.
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Thanks for the follow up Mary.
Hi Mary.
I was in big lor something this past weekend and tried using manufacturer coupons on some items however was informed that they do not accept them. The cashier did not know if that was a specific store stipulation or if all stores adhered to that. Wondering if you knew?
Thanks,
Erica
Sorry Erica- It is true. Big Lots does not take manufacturer’s coupons. They do however sometimes offer their own store coupons for Buzz Club Rewards members. AND if you use any of the rebate apps- a few of those work at Big Lots too.
Hope that helps! Thanks for asking!