Beautiful, easy DIY recycled present

Recyclers, this gift is for you. I put together a soap dispenser out of entirely upcycled materials, and I swear, it could not be easier.

I'd saved several former spaghetti sauce jars from this past week's pasta party, because it broke my heart to get rid of that much glass. I feel like I spend plenty of money on vases and vessels of all sorts, so to waste glass jars, especially cute ones with "MASON" written across them, felt absurd. And since I had three of them, I figured I'd turn them into a set of candles, or something along those lines.

No need to start melting the wax, kids. This job is much, much easier than that. I got a little inspiration from The Blissfully Content Life, where Julia used actual mason jars. Just as I used what I had on hand, you should do the same. If you've got any glass jar that has a lid, this project will work. The more unique the jar, the better.

Once I had cleaned out the jars, I scoured my house for products that were almost gone that had pump tops. Lotions, soaps, whatever. This purple one is from a face wash.

Next, I sized up the widest part of the pump with my drill bits, picked one that was snug, and drilled a hole in the top of the lid. Once and done was all it took. And because it's a very good fit, I didn't have to worry about securing the pump to the top. That sucker is not moving. But if you are concerned, you certainly could use a little hot glue to hold things in place.

The before shot

Then, I pulled out a can of spray paint (the color is the cult favorite: oil rubbed bronze), and unified the look. About 20 minutes later, it was ready to be filled and used.

Obviously, you could put whatever you want in there--body wash, lotion, cleaning supplies. Top it off with a cute little ribbon, and you've got a fantastic homemade present--one that you won't feel guilty giving or receiving.

The after shot! Ta da!

And for a little perspective, here's something similar that you can purchase for $14.99. Did I mention that mine was free?!