Mason Jar Gift Ideas for Employees: Creative and Appreciated Tokens of Thanks

As work environments continue to evolve, finding unique and thoughtful ways to appreciate employees is as important as ever. One trend I’ve noticed gaining popularity is the gifting of mason jars filled with various items. These jars offer a personal touch and can be customized to suit any individual’s taste. With their versatility and practicality, mason jar gift ideas have become a go-to for showing gratitude in an imaginative and memorable way.

I find that mason jar gifts are not only charming but also eco-friendly and reusable, adding a sustainable element to employee appreciation. These gifts can range from food mixes, to beauty products, to small plants, catering to a wide range of interests. It’s refreshing to give a gift that can later be repurposed, perhaps even encouraging employees to adopt more sustainable practices themselves.

Crafting these gifts also allows for a level of creativity. I have seen mason jars transformed into gingerbread houses, and jars filled with all the ingredients needed for a delicious batch of cookies or a hearty soup. The personalization possibilities are endless, and they can be easily tailored to seasonal festivities or branded with company colors and logos for an extra special touch. This small gesture of a mason jar filled with thoughtfulness might just be the perfect way to make employees feel valued and recognized.

Why Mason Jar Gifts for Employees?

Mason jar gift ideas are important because these jars stand out as eco-friendly, highly customizable, and incredibly versatile options for employee appreciation gifts.

Eco-Friendly and Reusable

I always consider the environmental impact of gifts, opting for sustainable options. Mason jar gifts are perfect in this regard because they are reusable. Employees can repurpose the jars for storage, as planters, or for their own DIY projects. By choosing mason jar gifts, I am encouraging a culture of sustainability in the workplace.

Personalized Touch

In my experience, adding a personalized touch to gifts significantly boosts morale. Mason jars lend themselves to customization. For instance, I might create custom labels or fill the jar with a homemade cookie mix tailored to an employee’s taste. The ability to add these personal touches shows employees that I value and appreciate their individual contributions to the team.

Versatility of Mason Jars

Lastly, the versatility of mason jars makes them an excellent gift choice. They serve not just as containers but can be part of various DIY gift ideas. I’ve seen mason jars transformed into mini gingerbread houses, packed with ingredients for a hot cocoa mix, or even used to hold a small desk plant. The possibilities for functional and meaningful gifts are endless, fitting for any occasion and suitable for all my employees’ preferences.

Popular Mason Jar Gift Ideas

When considering gifts for employees, mason jars provide a customizable and personal touch. Filled with a variety of ingredients, these gifts can cater to any taste and showcase thoughtfulness and creativity.

Cookies in a Jar

A classic choice is the Cookies in a Jar mix, which layers ingredients like flour, baking powder, sugar, and chocolate chips. It’s both visually appealing and practical. Recipients can add their own wet ingredients at home and bake fresh cookies. For example, an Oatmeal Cookie mix with added cashews or raisins can make a delightful and hearty treat.

Soup and Spice Mixes

The Soup and Spice Mixes in a jar can be a warm, hearty gift. A layered mix, such as the Friendship Soup Mix, can include an assortment of beans, lentils, bouillon granules, and seasonings. It provides not just a meal but an experience for the employee to cook a comforting soup at home.

Homemade Condiments

Homemade Condiments offer a unique touch to the mason jar lineup. Whether it’s a Salted Caramel Sauce for dessert lovers or spicy Hot Pepper Jelly for those who enjoy a kick, homemade condiments can be a hit. I recommend including a tag with suggested uses to inspire delicious pairings.

Sweets and Treats

Beyond mixes, mason jars can be filled with ready-to-eat Sweets and Treats. Candied nuts, gourmet chocolates, or a layered Pumpkin Butter are just a few ideas. They can satisfy any sweet tooth while doubling as a cute decoration on a desk or shelf.

Drink Mixes

Lastly, Drink Mixes are a versatile gift option. A Gingerbread Spice Mix can make for a festive beverage. Just include the proportions for mixing with milk or coffee. For a more spirited option, a mason jar cocktail mix can be a fun choice – just add the liquor!

Mason jar gifts are a versatile and personal way to show appreciation to employees for their hard work and dedication.

Seasonal Mason Jar Gifts

Seasonal mason jar gifts are a versatile and creative way to show appreciation to employees throughout the year. With a personalized touch, these gifts can celebrate the unique spirit of each holiday.

Christmas-themed Creations

For Christmas, I like to fill mason jars with festive treats and decorations. A popular choice is the Snowman Mason Jar, where I layer ingredients for hot cocoa mixes, topped with marshmallows and a fabric hat to mimic a snowman’s top hat. Another delightful gift is a mason jar filled with homemade Christmas Cookies. I tie a ribbon around the jar and attach a cookie cutter to keep the Christmas spirit alive.

Christmas Mason Jar Gifts:
- Snowman Mason Jar: Hot cocoa mix, marshmallows, chocolate chips, and a mini bottle of peppermint schnapps.
- Cookie Mixes: Layers of pre-measured dry ingredients for cookies, decorated with festive ribbons and a recipe tag.

Spooky Halloween Treats

I use mason jars to capture the essence of Halloween by creating Spooky Treat Jars. These can be filled with candy corn or gummy worms and adorned with jack-o’-lantern faces or ghostly figures. Customizing the jars with Halloween colors like orange, black, and purple always adds to the spooky factor.

Halloween Mason Jar Gifts:
- Candy Corn Jar: A jar layered with orange, yellow, and white candy corn.
- Gummy Worm Jar: Filled with gummy candies and sealed with a lid wrapped in spider web patterns.

Valentine’s Day Sweets

Valentine’s Day calls for something sweet. I often opt for mason jars brimming with a variety of chocolates or heart-shaped candies. These are not only visually appealing but also provide a delightful treat. An elegant touch is to decorate the jar with red and pink ribbons, and perhaps a personalized love-themed note.

Valentine’s Day Mason Jar Gifts:
- Chocolate Lovers Jar: An assortment of gourmet chocolates, presented in a jar tied with a satin ribbon.
- Heart Candies Jar: A collection of heart-shaped sweets, perfect for expressing care and appreciation.

Creative Packaging Ideas

When I assemble mason jar gifts for my employees, my goal is to create a package that’s not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing. Each design element should add value and convey appreciation, transforming the humble jar into a gem of personal recognition.

Decorative Tags

I often enhance the jars with decorative tags which serve both a functional and ornamental purpose. On the tags, I write the employee’s name along with a brief, personalized message that underscores their contribution to the team. Here are some ideas:

Personalized Notes: A thoughtful thank you message can make the tag truly special.
Usage Instructions: For jars with consumables, such as bar in a jar, I include how-to-enjoy steps.

Custom Labels

For a professional touch, I use custom labels that resonate with my company’s brand. The labels aren’t overly complex; a clean design with the following elements usually works well:

Company Logo: I ensure my company’s logo is visible but not overpowering.
Contents Detail: An elegant list of the mason jar contents, especially for mason jar crafts or the bar in a jar, provides clarity.

Handcrafted Embellishments

Finally, I add handcrafted embellishments to give the jar a unique twist. These can range from simple to intricate, depending on the time and resources. Here’s what I’ve tried:

Twine or Ribbon: A simple wrap adds rustic charm.
Themed Decor: For instance, cocktail umbrellas in a bar in a jar gift add a fun, creative touch.

DIY Mason Jar Crafts for Gifts

In considering handmade gifts for employees, mason jar crafts stand out as versatile and customizable options. They serve as practical and charming gifts suitable for any occasion.

Mason Jar Vases

I often find that mason jar vases are the simplest yet most elegant craft gifts. Snowflake mason jars can be created by painting the jars white and adding delicate snowflake designs—perfect for a winter-themed office gift. To make one:

Paint a clean mason jar with white acrylic paint.
Once dry, use a fine brush or stencil to create silver snowflake patterns.

Illuminated Mason Jars

Illuminated mason jars bring a cozy and warm atmosphere into any space. Colleagues can use them to adorn their desks or brighten up their home office. I recommend crafting a snowman mason jar light, which requires:

Glass paint in black, orange, and red.
A small string of LED lights.

Simply paint a snowman face on the jar and insert the LED lights for a glowing snowman décor piece.

Kitchen and Office Organizers

Mason jars are excellent for organizing kitchen and office essentials. I utilize them to hold utensils, pens, and other small items in a tidy manner. To create kitchen and office organizers:

Select jars of various sizes for different items.
Label them using paint or adhesive chalkboard labels for easy identification.

Step-by-Step Mason Jar Gift Recipes

Creating mason jar gifts is a delightful way to offer a personal touch to presents. I’m going to guide you through assembling cookie mixes, layering soup mixes, and preparing preserves and jams—all conveniently packed in mason jars.

Cookie Mix Assembling

Gingerbread Cookie Mix:

In a clean mason jar, layer the following:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Top the mixture with:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Seal the jar and attach a tag with baking instructions: Mix contents with 1/2 cup melted butter, 1/4 cup molasses, and 1 egg. Roll out, cut into shapes, and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.

Soup Mix Layering

Friendship Soup Mix:

Layer these ingredients in the following order:
- 1/4 cup dried split peas
- 1/4 cup dried lentils
- 1/4 cup beef bouillon granules
- 1/4 cup pearl barley
- 1/4 cup dried minced onion
- 1/2 cup uncooked long grain rice
- 1/2 cup macaroni or other pasta
Finally, add a seasoning pack on top containing:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Attach cooking directions: Add contents to a large pot with 12 cups water, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and optional cooked ground beef or turkey. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 1 hour.

Preserves and Jam Preparation

Hot Pepper Jelly:

Combine the following in a large saucepan:
- 2 1/2 cups apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup finely chopped hot peppers
- 6 cups sugar
Bring the mixture to a boil, then stir in 2 packets of liquid pectin.
Continue to boil for 1 minute, then pour into sterilized mason jars.
Seal jars and process them in a water bath for 10 minutes.

Pickled Red Onions:

In a mason jar, layer thinly sliced red onions leaving some space at the top.
Bring to a boil:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
Pour the hot mixture over the onions, ensuring they are completely submerged.
Let the jar cool before sealing and refrigerating.

Sustainable Gift Giving with Mason Jars

In the context of corporate gifting, I’ve found that mason jars present remarkable opportunities for both reducing waste and promoting recycling. These versatile containers not only serve as eco-friendly gifts but also encourage recipients to adopt more sustainable habits.

Reducing Waste

Mason jar gifts reduce waste by offering a reusable alternative to single-use packaging. Here’s how:

Refill and Reuse: I recommend filling mason jars with homemade mixes or layers of ingredients for soups, cookies, or hot chocolate. This not only adds a personal touch but also discourages waste.
Durability: Their glass construction ensures mason jars can be used repeatedly without significant wear.

Example:

Use	Idea
Homemade Mixes	Soup mix layered attractively
Office Supplies Holder	Jars filled with office essentials

Promoting Recycling

Mason jars inherently promote recycling through their ability to be repurposed for a variety of uses. Here are specific ideas:

Plant Starters: Gifting mason jars with seed packets can inspire employees to grow their own plants. The jars can serve as initial containers for the seeds to sprout, blending eco-friendly intentions with practicality.
Desk Organizers: A mason jar can be converted into a pen or tool organizer, symbolizing the adaptability and resourcefulness of recycling in daily life.

Craft Inspiration:

Turn the jars into solar Mason Jar Lights, an innovative and sustainable way to brighten spaces.
Craft signature rub or spice mix kits within jars, encouraging homemade cooking and reduced packaging waste.

Finding Inspiration and Ideas

When looking for unique mason jar gift ideas for employees, I focus on sources that offer a wealth of creativity and practical guidance. Here are some reliable ways I find inspiration and tailor it to craft personalized mason jar gifts.

Exploring Online Platforms

I often start my search for mason jar gift ideas on online platforms like Pinterest. Pinterest is a treasure trove for inspiration, offering countless visual ideas from creative individuals and businesses. I use the search function to look for mason jar crafts and save pins to a dedicated board for easy reference. It organizes my findings and helps me visualize the final gift.

Search Keywords: Mason jar gifts, DIY mason jar, employee gifts
Boards to Follow: DIY Gifts, Employee Appreciation, Creative Packaging

Crafting Blogs and Vlogs

Another resource I turn to is crafting blogs and vlogs. They often provide step-by-step tutorials and can offer additional insights and tips that aren’t immediately apparent from a simple image.

Favorite Blogs:
- A Night Owl Blog – for their detailed treat-filled mason jar tutorials
- Hello Lidy – they have a lovely mason jar picture frame guide, ideal for office gifts

Community Crafting Groups

Community crafting groups can be a great place to gather new ideas and share my own experiences. I participate in online forums and local meet-ups. Not only do I get fresh ideas, but I also gain feedback on my projects, which leads to better results.

Online Forums: Reddit’s crafting community, Facebook crafting groups
Local Meet-ups: I search through Meetup.com for crafting sessions in my area

By combining these sources, I compile a list of mason jar gift ideas that are both doable and delightful, ensuring my employee gifts are thoughtful and appreciated.

Shopping Guide for Supplies

When searching for supplies to create mason jar gifts for employees, it’s crucial to consider cost-effectiveness, convenience, and variety. I’ll guide you through the most efficient ways to source materials, whether you’re buying in bulk, supporting local businesses, or snagging deals from online retailers.

Bulk Purchasing

For those planning to make mason jar gifts in large quantities, buying in bulk is the most cost-effective approach. I recommend wholesalers such as Costco or Sam’s Club, where you can often find mason jars, bulk candy, and crafting supplies at discounted prices. Always keep an eye out for:

Mason Jars: Cases of various sizes (pint, quart, etc.)
Decorative Items: Ribbons, stickers, fabric
Filling: Bulk candy, dry baking ingredients

Utilizing Local Stores

Supporting local businesses such as craft stores and local markets can offer unique and high-quality supplies for your mason jar gifts:

Craft Supplies: Visit stores like Michaels or Hobby Lobby for exclusive items.
Personal Touch: Source local produce or homemade treats to fill your jars.

Online Retailers and Deals

Online retailers can be treasure troves for deals, especially when you use affiliate links to obtain discounts. Amazon, Etsy, and eBay offer a wide range of supplies with the added convenience of direct shipping. Look for:

Deals: Search for coupons and use affiliate links for discounts.
Variety: These platforms offer a vast selection of decorations and fillings not always available locally.

By combining these shopping strategies, you can efficiently gather all the supplies needed to create thoughtful and personalized mason jar gifts for your employees.

Looking for mason jar gift ideas that feel thoughtful, unique, and meaningful for your employees?

Creative gifts can build connection, boost morale, and make appreciation feel personal. Whether you’re crafting seasonal treats, practical office kits, or branded keepsake jars, the right presentation can turn a simple container into something memorable. Empire Promos offers customizable labels, tags, accessories, and promotional items that elevate every mason jar gift into a branded experience. Make every jar and every gesture count.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, I address some of the most common inquiries regarding DIY mason jar gifts that are perfect for employee appreciation and suitable for a workplace setting.

What are some unique DIY mason jar gift ideas for coworkers?

I find layering a cookie or a brownie mix in a mason jar not only makes a charming gift but also offers a quick baking solution for coworkers. Another idea is a DIY S’mores Mason Jar gift, comprising layers of graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate.

How can I create a non-food gift in a mason jar?

For a non-food gift, I’d assemble a miniature office survival kit containing items like adhesive bandages, thumb drives, a small sewing kit, and perhaps some pain relievers. Alternatively, a mason jar can be filled with stationery items like colorful pens, paper clips, and sticky notes.

What are creative mason jar gifts suitable for both male and female employees?

A universally appealing mason jar gift could be a ‘Gratitude Jar’ filled with notes of appreciation. Additionally, a mason jar terrarium or a jar filled with an array of tea bags or coffee pods can cater to all preferences.

Could you suggest easy mason jar craft ideas that serve as thoughtful gifts?

Crafting a mason jar into a personalized desk organizer is an easy project. Simply decorate the jar and add office supplies. Another idea is to create a soothing jar with small candles and matches for coworkers to use when they need to de-stress.

What are some innovative ways to turn mason jars into cocktail gifts?

To turn mason jars into cocktail gifts, start by placing a single-serve cocktail mix or ingredients layered inside. You could also make a cocktail infusion jar, adding fruits, herbs, and spices that will infuse into spirits, such as vodka or rum.

Can you give examples of homemade mason jar gifts that can be made in bulk for colleagues?

When making gifts in bulk, mason jar hand scrubs or bath salts are practical and appreciated. Include different scents using essential oils. And for a touch of festivity, layering different colors of sand or salts to create a landscape effect is always eye-catching.