Create A 50s-Style Sugar Shaker Using A Clever Mason Jar Hack

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Mason jars have come a long way since they were first invented in the 1800s. Originally designed for food preservation, they're now used for all kinds of purposes, including floral arrangements, cocktails, and toiletry storage. And just when we thought we'd run out of creative ways to upcycle these adorable glass jars, we came across one more: 1950s-style diner sugar shakers.

If you use sugar often (or even just on occasion), you'll love this clever pour hack to make a Mason jar more functional. For example, if you like adding some sweetness to your morning coffee or bowl of cereal, this is a whimsical, nostalgic way to do it. Alternatively, you could use these jars for more savory toppings and ingredients, like coffee or spices.

Overall, this is a fairly simple DIY, but you will need a handful of supplies — starting with a Mason jar (including the lid). Make sure it has one of the two-piece lids that can be separated into different parts (the outer band and the circular insert). You should also grab a salt container with a spout — like this canister of Morton Iodized Salt ($1.92 at Walmart). To assemble your sugar shaker, you'll need a utility knife, a pen or pencil, glue, and cardstock or scrapbook paper.

Before you start crafting, you'll want to give the jar a good cleaning — even if you're using a brand-new one. Wash the inside, outside, and lid with warm, soapy water, then dry each piece thoroughly. Next, if there's any salt in the canister, empty the contents into another jar to use later. Then, carefully cut off the top of the container with your knife. To make sure it will fit on top of your Mason jar, use a pen or pencil to trace the circumference of the jar's inner lid (not including the band) over the salt container top. Cut along that circle to create the new lid for your shaker.

If you're okay with leaving the old salt container's lid visible, feel free to move on to the next steps. But if you'd prefer something a little nicer-looking, then you can trace the lid on a piece of colorful cardstock or printed scrapbook paper. Be sure to include a gap for the metal spout as well. Then, cut out the cardstock circle (including the hole where the spout goes) and pull the spout through the gap. When you're sure it fits, glue the paper on top of the salt container lid. If you'd like to add a little extra flair, you can decorate the outside of the jar with paint or glass markers. When you're done, put the band over the new lid and screw it onto the Mason jar. Now you have a chic touch of '50s home decor perfect for anywhere, from a bar cart to kitchen counter.