Decorative jar covers are easy and fun to make. Also called jar toppers, these are suitable projects for beginners. Various sewing and craft techniques can be used for jar covers. Patchwork and appliqué are two options.
Fabrics for Jar Covers
Washable materials are preferred for jar covers. These require very little fabric. Just use whatever scraps you have on hand. For most standard canning jars, a six or seven inch square of fabric is enough. In addition to fabric, doilies can also be turned into jar covers.
Mix and match colors and prints to create pleasing combinations. Select fabrics that fit the area’s decorating scheme or function. For example, use prints with a culinary theme for kitchen jars.
Patterns and Templates for Jar Covers
Patterns for jar covers are available in retail stores and online. These can also be found in books as well. In fact, entire books have been written on this subject.
In addition to using patterns, you can easily create your own design. Use the jar lid to make your template. Add a seam allowance. Cut a facing the same size as the jar cover. If you want a puffy jar cover, add a layer of batting between the outer fabric and facing.
Jar Cover Styles
There is a jar cover style to fit every need. Often, these are designed to fit over the entire lid. They can be held in place with ribbon, raffia, or lace.
For canning jars with two piece lids, you have another option. Flat jar covers can fit underneath the outer ring. In this design, the outer ring holds the jar cover in place so ribbon is optional.
Elasticized jar covers are simple and easy to make. They fit a range of jar sizes. No template is needed. Just cut a six or seven inch wide circle, depending on how much overhang you want below the lid. When attaching the facing, sew a casing to hold the elastic.
Embellishments
Once the basic jar cover is constructed of fabric, almost any kind of decorative touch can be added. It can be bits of lace, rick rack, braid, or other trim. Buttons and beads also work very well. Bows and ribbons are other possibilities. Embroidery is also very effective. Choose embellishments that suit the room’s décor. For example, lace-decorated lids offer a romantic look that would be suitable for bathrooms and bedrooms.
Jar covers are especially suitable for gifts-in-a-jar. For these gifts, add gift tags or labels that match or coordinate the jar cover.
