How to Build a Cheap Mason Jar Airlock for Fermenting Vegetables

If you are new to lacto-fermentation and don't want to dump a bunch of money on an expensive crock, mason jars can be a lifesaver. I like them because I can make small batches of vegetables without having to commit to an entire crock.

The problem with mason jars for me has always been keeping the air out. I have experimented with just weighing the vegetables down and covering with a towel but they always end up moldy. I saw some specialty lids online that were made specifically for fermenting in a mason jar but they were expensive so I figured I could make one cheaper. I make these for about $5 each. Below are a list of things you need to make a great Mason Jar Airlock.

1. An airlock and a rubber stopper size 6 or 7 (great deal on this three piece set for $7 at Amazon bit.ly/1KuqLok)

2. A wide mouth Mason jar (any size you want). bit.ly/1ile04v

3. A 4 ounce jelly jar bit.ly/1Kur02H

4. a Ball plastic reusable storage cap bit.ly/1ileec5

5. Someway to cut a hole in the lid. I use my drill and a spade bit that is slightly larger than the bottom of the stopper but slightly smaller than the top of the stopper. If you don't own these you should buy some (here is a cheap $10 set that should do fine bit.ly/1Kurt52). These bits will come in handy on tons of projects.

As always, I look forward to hearing from you.

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