Chalkboard Jars

I LOVE having an organized kitchen. Clear jars are a great way to store things in airtight containers. Even though the mason jar craze is on it’s way out, I still like the simple and classic look of jars. I tend to save jars and paint the lids to use them for another purpose.

I picked up these jars fairly cheaply and with some chalk paint, painted on a place to write the contents of my jars. (Yes, I had already filled them when I painted them.) I simply put a few thin coats of Chalkboard Paint in the square on the glass. Such a great way to label-when you need to change the label, wash them and write something new.

Inspiration

Like many of you, I get a lot of my inspiration from Pinterest, but sometimes it may be from other websites, shopping, tv, or magazines too. I often find an item that is a beautiful piece, it just needs some love. Then I may dream up multiple ways to paint or make it new. (Part of the fun for me!) Some pieces speak to me right away and need to be painted a certain way, while others it takes me awhile to design them.

For this post, I’d like to hear from you. In a Pinterest & DIY inspired time, what inspires your home projects?

A New Tip for Removing Labels on Glass

I don’t know about you, but I come across so many glass bottles from packaging that would be great for other uses. You just have to be able to get the label off. Some are easy to peel…but others leave you scraping forever.

Here are a few tips I found that work best for me:
First, I fill the sink with hot water, dish soap and sprinkle in some baking soda.

Then, I let them soak for awhile. (At least 30min, if not longer. I did things around the house and came back to them.) Some of the labels will just slide off with this method, however, I’ve found some are still very much stuck on.
So here’s my big tip that I hadn’t seen anywhere else…
I use a magic eraser to remove the leftover residue. (Actually I used one I got from the dollar store. Even better right!?)
As you can see, this one had quite a bit of reside remaining.

So I started scrubbing. If the eraser alone won’t cut it, sprinkle on some baking soda and scrub away. It does still take a little elbow grease.

And there you have it, an easier way to remove labels!
Do you have any other tips that work well for you when it comes to removing labels?

Glass Silver Dots Pillar Candle Holder

This glass candle holder is clear with hand painted silver dots.

This item would also be nice used as a vase or to store other items.

Measures 7.25 Tall & 3.25 around.
Handwash only.

*Candle not included

This item is for sale in my Etsy shop GretchenLeighDecor