Coming in at under $10, this is a cheap and easy way to add some character to your table or window sill this spring.

Step 1: Materials

1 - 4' long 1x4
1 - 3 3/4" x 11 7/8" piece of 1/2" plywood
3 - 1 quart mason jars
1 - can of spray primer
Chalk paint in various colors
Paint brush
Wood glue
Saw
Nails
Hammer

Step 2: Prime the Jars

Paint doesn't stick to glass too well on its own, so it's a good idea to spray the jars with primer before painting.

To make it easier, drive a few stakes in the ground and put the jars on top.

Step 3: Cut the Pieces for the Box

While the primer is drying, measure and cut the pieces for the box.
The sides are cut from a 1x4 with the long sides at 12 7/8" and the short sides at 3 3/4".
The bottom piece is cut from plywood and should measure 11 3/8" x 3 3/4".

Step 4: Assemble the Box

First put wood glue on the joints, then clamp to hold things in place. If you've got the time to wait, you can let the glue dry while clamped. Or you can add some nails to the joint to hold it together until the glue dries and move on a little more quickly.

Step 5: Paint

Now it's time to paint everything. Remember, this project is going to have a rustic feel, so it doesn't have to be perfect.
I've found that both the box and the jars look better with two coats of paint. If you'd like to move along a little quicker, you can use a hair dryer to speed up the paint drying.
Also, when painting the jars it makes things easier if you hold them by sticking your hand inside the jar.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Using a fine grit sandpaper (220 or 320) on a sanding block, sand the high points - like letters and other markings - to remove the paint and give the jars a rustic touch.
You can also hit the edges and corners of the box with the sandpaper, but don't go overboard.
If you leave the center out when you put the lid on, you can add flowers or other decorations in the jars.
Tying a piece of twine around the neck of the jar is another way to add some detail.