DIY Mug Converter for Mason Jar

I like using a 32 oz Mason Jar for tea and lemonade, BUT I wanted a handle.  

After some thinking & experimenting I developed this configuration out of cheap & available material. The jar can slide in and out (for cleaning) and the cardboard provides some temperature insulation.  It has much potential for customization and has that DIY “sawdust is my glitter” aesthetic.  (Examples shown with both duct & strapping tape.)

Corrugated cardboard 14x14”

Pattern template (see attached pdf.)

Exacto knife 

Coat hanger wire (or a similar gauge)

Wire cutting pliers

Duct tape or strapping tape

Basically the pattern consists of a circle matching the bottom of the mason jar and radiating arms that will bend up around the sides of the jar. This will give the finished product a barrel look. Everything will fit on a 14x14" piece of corrugated cardboard.

Use the exacto knife with a fresh sharp blade. It may require some patience and safety precautions. Start from the center and work outward.  (Sure, a laser cutter will make this step go quicker, if you have one.)

Bend the cardboard arms up around your jar. Hold in place with tape. I have started with two rings of tape near the top and bottom with enough room between the rings to fit the width of my hand.

You want enough wire to wrap around the jar twice, room for your hand and a few extra inches. I put a “U” shape in the middle then wrapped the top wire around clockwise and the bottom wrapped around counter clockwise over  that first layer of tape. When the wire has encircled the cardboard & jar twist it off on the part that will stick out for the hand. Take your time and make adjustments as needed. Make sure the loop of the handle for your hand FEELS comfortable for you. The benefit of wrapping the wire over a layer of tape is the wire won’t cut through the cardboard later on.

Once the wire handle is in place a layer of tape will hold it onto the mug. Cut a little slit into the ends so the tape can wrap around the entire mug and look nice. Then use some tape to wrap around the loop so it is cushioned for your hand. Use some extra cardboard & tape for the inside top part of the grip for the most cushioning. 

The cardboard can get a bit damp and dry out with no problem. (these examples were made in 2017 and i still use them daily today.) You can decorate the cardboard with markers or stickers. The idea can be scaled to different size jars. Enjoy.