Yes, I made a rustic wooden vase from a log and a few old jars. No, it wasn’t hard. Yes, it’s adorable.
So here’s the deal. My garden roses are blooming like they’re getting paid for it. I snip a few every morning to put on the terrace table, but they’ve got teeny-tiny stems. Regular vases are way too tall, and yogurt jars—while technically functional—look like I just cleaned out the fridge. I wanted something earthy, natural, and a little extra. Something that whispers “I go to farmer’s markets and also own twine.”
Naturally, I made one. Out of firewood.
I Used What I Had — and It Worked
I had a small stash of logs set aside for the grill and fireplace. I picked the straightest, cutest one. It had a nice bark and was just long enough for three yogurt jars to sit snugly inside.
I also grabbed:
- 3 short glass jars (mine were from yogurt)
- Hot glue gun
- Matte spray lacquer
- Jute twine
- Preserved moss (I used the “natural” one that looks kinda messy — in a good way)
- Optional: dried flowers or faux stems
Step-by-Step
Cut the log in half lengthwise. No, I didn’t do it myself. I handed it off to someone who likes dangerous tools. You want two matching halves like a wooden sandwich bun. If you don’t have tools, maybe check garden stores — sometimes they sell split logs for fire pit. Clean the log and give it a coat of lacquer.
I placed the three jars between the two halves and used hot glue to secure them to the bottom one. Make sure they’re centered and stable before you add the top log.
I wrapped the whole log vase with jute string, two or three times around, tight enough to hold but loose enough to look cute. Tied the knot underneath so it’s hidden.
Hot-glued bits of preserved moss into bark crevices. Don’t overthink it. You can also tuck in faux flowers or dried bits if you want it more whimsical. I added two tiny yellow fake blooms, mostly for balance.
Fill the jars. Drop in your roses. Stand back and admire the thing you made with literal garbage and glue.
Don't forget water! I mean it!.
It’s Not Perfect, But It’s Perfect
This thing has charm. It’s rustic, it’s slightly uneven, and it makes my table look like I’m the sort of person who composts (I’m not). Plus, the roses finally look like they belong somewhere — no more drowning in tall vases or hiding in sad little yogurt jars.
And honestly, I kinda want to make a few more. Might try a winter version later with pinecones and berries?