If you are new to canning or still working on  getting  your nerve up  to give it a try. Here are a couple simple TIPS that make things easier in my opinion.

BEFORE I touch any of the food I am going to can for the day, I lay out a big beach town on the floor under the stove and sink, and fold another one in thirds on the counter where I will be filling jars, and prepping. WHY do I do this, well I am MESSY and canning is messy and it just helps keep things under control. If or maybe I should say when, I  spill a big spoonful of jam on the floor, I can just pick the towel up instead of scrubbing the floor in the middle of my canning. The towel on the counter I can wipe my hands on and keep on my “tools” on between batches or filling jars, this too keeps the mess contained.  If something drops on the towel it does not start running down the counter and onto the floor, the towel just absorbs it, and you can keep on going. The towel on the counter I just refold as it gets dirty to have another clean surface. Yes it is still messy but the cleanup is a bit easier.

Then I Make sure I have all my tools out and ready so I am not digging through drawers when I am up to my elbows in tomatoes or jam. I make sure I have my funnel, tongs, jar lifter, spoons, large measuring cups (for measuring then for filling my jars), along with all my large pans that I will be needing.

I go on and get my jars and lids in pans of water so they are ready to heat when it is time for them. I also make sure I have MORE jars and lids close by ready to go in case I need a couple more.  I found these very simple tips very helpful and help reduce any stress.

This post is linked up with Some Day Crafts, Savvy Southern Style, Lilluna