Transforming an ordinary Bonne Maman jar into a stylish and functional storage solution or decorative piece is a fun and eco-friendly project. With their iconic red and white checkered lids and classic glass design, these jars are perfect for upcycling. Here, we've gathered creative Bonne Maman jar ideas that will inspire you to give new life to your empty jars.

Storage Solutions

Bonne Maman jars are ideal for organizing and storing various items around your home. Their airtight seals keep contents fresh, and their wide mouths make them easy to fill and empty.
Kitchen Pantry Organization

Use Bonne Maman jars to store dry goods like rice, pasta, beans, and flour. Label each jar with its contents and the date it was opened to keep track of expiration. You can also use them to store baking supplies, such as sugar, flour, and spices.
- Tip: Use a permanent marker or chalkboard paint to write directly on the jar, or create labels using adhesive vinyl or cardstock.

Bathroom and Laundry Room
In the bathroom, Bonne Maman jars can hold cotton swabs, cotton balls, and makeup remover wipes. In the laundry room, they can store laundry pods, wool dryer balls, or spare buttons and sewing kits.
Decorative and Functional Ideas

Vases and Planters
Clean and sterilize Bonne Maman jars to use as vases for fresh flowers or as planters for small succulents and air plants. You can also paint the jars or wrap them in twine or fabric for a more personalized look.
Candle Holders

Transform Bonne Maman jars into charming candle holders by filling them with sand, pebbles, or seashells, and placing a tealight or pillar candle on top. For a more elegant look, paint the jars in metallic colors or wrap them in gold or silver leaf.
Pen and Pencil Holders



















Use Bonne Maman jars as desk organizers to keep pens, pencils, and other office supplies neat and tidy. You can also use them to store makeup brushes, lipsticks, and other beauty essentials on your vanity.
DIY Gifts and Favors
Bonne Maman jars make excellent containers for homemade gifts and favors. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
Homemade Jam or Preserves
Fill Bonne Maman jars with your favorite homemade jam, jelly, or preserves. Tie a ribbon around the lid, add a personalized label, and gift them to friends and family.
Spice Blends and Seasoning Mixes
Create custom spice blends or seasoning mixes and package them in Bonne Maman jars. Include a recipe card with suggested uses and tie a ribbon around the lid for a thoughtful gift.
Bath Salts and Sugar Scrubs
Make your own bath salts or sugar scrubs and package them in Bonne Maman jars. Decorate the jars with ribbons, stickers, or paint, and add a personalized label for a luxurious and eco-friendly gift.
Craft and Hobby Storage
Bonne Maman jars are perfect for organizing craft supplies, such as buttons, beads, and sequins. They can also be used to store small hardware items, like screws, nails, and washers, in your workshop or garage.
Art and Craft Kits
Create portable art or craft kits by filling Bonne Maman jars with supplies like colored pencils, markers, or embroidery floss. Tie a ribbon around the lid and attach a small wooden spoon or paintbrush for a functional and stylish gift.
Comparing Bonne Maman Jars to Other Glass Jars
When it comes to upcycling, Bonne Maman jars have several advantages over other glass jars. Their wide mouths make them easier to fill and clean, and their iconic red and white checkered lids add a touch of charm and nostalgia. Additionally, Bonne Maman jars are made from high-quality glass that is durable and resistant to breakage.
| Jar Type | Wide Mouth | Iconic Lid | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonne Maman | Yes | Yes | High |
| Mason Jar | Some varieties | No | Moderate |
| Kilner Jar | Some varieties | No | Moderate |
While other glass jars can also be upcycled, Bonne Maman jars stand out due to their wide mouths, iconic lids, and high-quality construction. Whether you're using them for storage, decoration, or gifting, Bonne Maman jars are a versatile and eco-friendly choice.