Want to brighten up short winter days with crafty family projects? You can transform basic containers into pretty accent pieces with guidance from the crafting experts at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores.

Create a faux milk glass look using hot glue and chalk paint on plain glass jars. Or, spruce up boring terra cotta pots using decorative paints and tape to add trendy patterns and designs. Read on for directions and more inspiration!

Milk Glass Jar and Jug

Crafting time: 3-5 hours
Skill level: Some experience necessary

• Mason jar
• Glass milk jug
• Rubbing alcohol
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks
• 1/2-inch flat brush
• FolkArt Home Decor Chalk: White Adirondack
• Mod Podge Ultra Matte finish

1. Wash jar and jug with mild soap and water. Dry and wipe with rubbing alcohol to remove any residue.
2. Create dots on Mason jar with hot glue. Work in sections to allow glue to harden. On the milk jug, apply lines of hot glue, starting with a swirl in the middle to create a tree knot design. Create lines around knot to achieve a faux bois effect. Allow glue to harden.
3. Paint over glue on both glass surfaces. Apply several coats if needed, allowing drying time between applications.
4. Seal both pieces with a coat of Ultra Matte finish. Allow to dry before applying any additional coats.

Trendy Plant Pottery

Crafting time: Under 1 hour
Skill level: No experience necessary

• Clay pots
• Decorative tapes
• Paint of choice
• Teresa Collins rub-on metallic letters
• Plants

1. Decorate clay pots with paint and decorative tapes. Allow to dry. Use rub-on letters to personalize pottery with a trendy aesthetic. Add plants.

Find more ways to get creative with the containers in your home at JoAnn.com.

Article courtesy of Family Features and Jo-Ann Fabrics.