How to Make an Apothecary Jar

Tall glass cylinder vases make effective apothecary jar stems.

Apothecary jars add a decorative, functional element to your home and can be used to hold anything from candies to bath soaps. Whether you have an event to decorate for or just wish to use apothecary jars in your home to hold everyday items, you can make your own so that you have control over the size and look of the jars. You might already have the craft materials you need to make apothecary jars in your home, otherwise you can take a trip to the craft store to stock up on what you need.

Things You'll Need

• Tall milk glass vase
• Tall glass cylinder vase
• Permanent bonding adhesive
• Saucer
• White spray paint
• Glass or crystal dresser knob

Instructions

1. Stand the tall glass cylinder vase up so that it is vertical with the open rim facing down. Apply permanent bonding adhesive around the solid bottom of the vase.

2. Set the bottom of the milk glass vase on top of the cylinder glass vase over the glue. Allow the adhesive to dry for one hour.

3. Spray paint the saucer white if you want it to match the white milk glass vase and it is not the correct color. Allow the saucer to dry for two to four hours.

4. Fit the saucer on top of the milk glass vase opening. The saucer plate will serve as the apothecary jar lid.

5. Apply permanent bonding adhesive to the bottom of the glass or crystal dresser knob. Place the bottom of the knob on top of the saucer. The knob becomes the means for lifting and removing the lid from the apothecary jar. Allow the adhesive to dry for one hour.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to keep the color of the cylinder vase, the milk glass vase and the dresser knob the same to keep the look of your apothecary jar uniform. For example, if you are using a white milk glass vase try to also use a white glass vase and knob. If you cannot find white glass, clear glass or crystal is an appropriate substitution.

• Cover your work surface before you begin this project to protect it from the permanent bonding adhesive.

• Wash all parts you will be using to make the apothecary jar before you assemble it to remove any oils or glues that may prevent the permanent adhesive from bonding.

• Spray paint in a ventilated area such as the garage or outside over a protected work surface.

• To give the apothecary jar an antique look, use sterling silver or brass cylinder vases.

• To make a dome lid instead of a flat one, use a glass bowl and glue the knob on top of the outer dome.

• Use your apothecary jars to hold seasonal objects such as pine cones, acorns and gourds or everyday items like cotton balls and bath beads. Remove the lid to use your apothecary jar as a wind-proof candle holder -- make sure to keep the lid off as long as the candle is burning.

• Use permanent bonding adhesive in a well-ventilated area away from sparks and flame.