Sunday, April 22, 2012

Jar topper

Thanks to everyone for all the lovely comments about my ort jar. I've had quite a few people asking how I made it, and requesting a tutorial, so here goes!



It's really quite simple, although a bit fiddly. So, the most obvious thing you need is the jar! I'm not sure what the correct name is for this type of jar, but they are often called mason jars, canning jars, kilner jars or preserving jars. They have a two part lid and come in various sizes. The one I used is about 9cm high and the top is about 8cm wide.

Other supplies needed are -

stitched piece
stuffing or wadding
scissors,
glue
tape
paper


Step 1

Separate the lid pieces. Using the flat disc part, layer LOTS of stuffing or batting. I used batting as that was all I had. I cut a couple of circles the same size as the lid and then some scrap pieces to make up the height. You need quite a lot as you can see from this picture...


It looks like it there would be too much there but it flattens down quite a bit. Remember you can play around with the amount until you get it to where you're happy with it.

Step 2

Lay the stitched piece over the mountain of stuffing and centralize. This was the fiddly bit - especially since the design I used was circular, it was really obvious if it was off center - and these things bug me no end! Trim the fabric so it's approx 2 - 3cm wider than the jar lid.


Step 3

Once you have the design in place, make sure the aida is smooth and without any puckers, lumps or bumps! Fold and trim fabric to remove excess bulk. Glue or tape in place as pictured below.  This picture was my 'trial run', but failed miserably! My plan was to use some thick cardboard then hide the folds with the metal disc part of the lid, of course there was too much bulk and the lid wouldn't screw on to the jar!  :(




So, ignore the fact that it's cardboard in the picture and glue or tape straight to the metal lid.  I forgot to take a picture of this part when I used the metal lid so that's why I'm using this picture (and having to confess my failures! lol)

Step 4  

Taking a glue gun, carefully place a layer of glue round the inside of the jar ring. Don't use too much as you don't want it oozing out onto your stitching! Place the two parts of the lid together, pressing together firmly.




Step 5

Cut out a circle of paper to hide the inside of the lid. Glue in place. You could use fancy patterned paper or you could print off a stitchy saying or a favourite quote to add a little bit of personality to your jar.




So, that's how I made my jar. Hope that all makes sense. If you have any questions you can always email me and I'll certainly try to help.

If you can't find this type of jar, never fear, you can still make something very similar! Just cut out a circle (slightly smaller than your jar lid) of very thick card. Follow steps 1, 2 and 3 using the card instead of the metal disc. Then glue to the top of the jar lid. Glue some cord in a co-ordinating colour to hide the join.

I'm going to make some more of these jars for (dare I say it?!!) Christmas presents. I have a friend who is a quilter, so I'm going to pop in some scissors, needles, pins, quilting wax etc. Wouldn't that make a fantastic gift?  I'm going to be stocking up on these jars as there are so many different things to do with them for gifts...I love it!

Until next time...happy stitching!

Rhona

9 comments:

Fiona said...

Wonderful tutorial Rhona! I'll have to keep an eye out for some two-part jars!!

Carol said...

Thanks for the great tutorial, Rhona--your jar is perfect!!

Mouse said...

that is really cute will have to see I can get any from around the mouse house .... will keep my wee eyes peeled :) love mouse xxxxx

Anne said...

Thanks Rhona for putting up this tutorial!! Now I need to go on a hunt for those jars!! The options are endless for ideas of what to do with the jars! I've already thought of what I want to do with one for me!!

Hugs

Anne

Valma said...

great great great =D
indeed it can make a fantastic gift !!
thanks for this tutorial , I'll try to find a jar like this around here, which will be I think the most difficult thing =D
Bravo
hugs from France
xxxxx

Veronica said...

Thank you so much for this tutorial. I'd love to give it a try someday.

Hugs,
Veronica.

Monique said...

Thank you for being so generous with your tutorial. I also can't wait to give it a try. Endless possibilities.

Stitching Noni said...

Thank you so much for the tutorial. I love the ORT jar that doubles as a pin cushion. I am sure that your friends will love getting them for pressies ;0)

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