Jars

• How many glass jars get thrown away every year? Of course, you can recycle your glass containers, but consider people you know who don't. Ask them to save their glass jars for you. Make a family project of creating holiday gifts of "mixes in a jar." There are some great recipes on the Internet (see resources below). Choose between breads, muffins, cakes, cookies, soups, seasonings and dips. Don't stop at food mixes, there are bath and body mixes, as well, such as bath salts, soaps, shampoo, oils and more. Fill the jar with a mix and cover the lid with a circle of fabric, tied with a ribbon, cord or raffia. Don't forget to attach the recipe that goes with the mix.
  
  Print family photos out on your computer. Glue them to the outside of a reused jar with Mod Podge (see resources below). Then, cover the photo covered jar with another coat of Mod Podge to seal it. Use the jar as a vase for fresh or silk flowers.
  
  Create patio lanterns by wrapping copper wire (from the hardware store) around the lip of the jar and then making a loop above for the handle. Add layers of different colors of sand at the bottom and stick a candle in the center. Stones, shells, reused hardware (screws, nuts and bolts) or just plain sand can also be used as anchors for the candle.
  
  

Plastic Bags

• If you aren't using reusable grocery bags, you probably have more plastic bags than you know what to do with. Use them for any craft or sewing project that requires stuffing, such as pillows or stuffed animals. Plastic bags can be fashioned into rugs, (stronger) tote bags, purses, jewelry, even clothing. There are patterns and instructions for these items on the Internet (see resources below).
  
  Make a dog bed for your new puppy. Fill a pillow case with scrunched up plastic bags. Sew the end shut. It's that simple. An old T-shirt can also be used. Sew the ends of the sleeves and the neck closed, then fill it with plastic bags. Sew the bottom of the shirt closed to finish the dog bed.