Handmade Preserves

Preserving is part of the routine here........Directions for jams, chutneys, pickles and relishes occupy a large section of my recipe box.   Being on 10 acres of land with a large vege patch and orchard, there is always an abundance of some type of produce ready to be bottled for later use.

Preserving is a great way to ensure our 
gardening efforts do not go to waste but I also
think they are a great "simple-life" tool as well.

A jar of homemade jam or chutney can be a wonderful "thanks mate" gift for the neighbour who helps feed the chickens while you're on a weekend away.  Its a great "bartering" tool with a local farmer - my jam for your moo poo. 

It's also a way of making some extra money at the local markets to buy seed and seedlings for the patch.  But, best of all jars of preserves are an awesome "you're appreciated" gift for your BFF who is always standing by when you need them. 

So.........I like my preserving jars to look a bit thoughtful, special and very homemade.  A quick way of doing this is with a crocheted jar lid cover.

Here is a set I have just finished, ready for some mango chutney I will be making on the weekend.  They are made using leftover cotton yarn and buttons from my button jar.  No extra expense - just some of my free time in front of the TV after the days work is done. 

Here is the pattern if you want to give them a go.

• Chain 3 and slip stitch to form a ring
• Chain 3 (this will be the first DC)
• 11 DC into the ring  and join with slip stitch to top of chain 3 (12 stitches)
• Chain 3,1 DC in the bottom of chain 3, 2 DC in every stitch to end - slip stitch to top of chain 3 (24 stitches)
• Chain 3, **1 DC in next stitch, 2 DC in next stitch** repeat from ** to ** to end and slip stitch closed (36 stitches)  This ring now forms the top of the jar
• Chain 3, **DC in next stitch, 2 DC in next stitch** repeat from ** to ** to end and slip stitch closed (54 stitches) 
• Chain 3, 1 DC in every stitch to end - close with a slip stitch. (54 stitches)  This is the row to insert the gathering chain.
• Chain 3, 2 DC in every stitch (108 stitches)  This is the edge row.
• Finish off and weave in ends.

• Then chain a length approximately 20 inches in a contrasting colour for the gathering cord.
• Insert cord in appropriate row
• Sew a button to the centre