Patriotic Centerpiece

Whether you’re hosting a big Fourth of July cookout or just want a patriotic way to decorate, this make-at-home American flag centerpiece is an excellent alternative to store-bought decor. With just a few craft supplies, you can transform common Mason jars into an extraordinary work of art just waiting to be filled with accents and florals of your choosing.

Materials:

• 3 Mason jars (1 qt. each)
• White spray paint
• Paintbrushes (large and fine tip recommended)
• Red, white, and blue acrylic paints
• Painter’s tape
• Pencil
• Star stencils
• Sandpaper (optional)
• Clear acrylic sealer

Directions: 

1. Spray paint two of the jars white—you might have to apply two or three coats. Let dry completely between coats.
2. With a large paintbrush, paint the third jar blue. Allow it to dry, then apply additional coats as necessary.
3. After the white jars are dry, use the painter’s tape to create two stripes on each jar. Fill in the uncovered areas with the red paint. Allow it to dry, applying additional coats as necessary. Remove the painter’s tape, and add touch-ups where needed.
4. On the blue jar, trace the star stencils with the pencil. Using a fine-tip paintbrush, fill in the shapes with the white paint. Let dry.
5. For a rustic look, gently rub sandpaper over the jars’ edges and embossed text.
6. Once you are happy with how the jars look, spray them with the sealer. (You may want to do this outdoors.) After they have dried, complete your centerpiece by filling each jar with fresh-cut flowers in compatible colors.