Basic Gear

1. Rack to hold jars off bottom of the pot

2. Jar lifter to maneuver jars in and out of the pot. Be sure to hold lifter by its black handle

3. Jar funnel to keep jar rims clean

4. Kitchen timer to time the boil

5. Nonreactive saucepan, enameled or stainless steel-clad metal, but not aluminum

6. Labels for processed jars

7. Liquid and dry measuring cups and measuring spoons

8. Utensils, wood or stainless steel spoon, ladle, and slotted spoon/skimmer to avoid chemical reactions with brines and other acidic mixtures that can cause a metallic taste

9. Canning lids, the flat metal discs with the rubber ring, and jars specifically designed for canning, free of chips, bubbles, or cracks

10. Bands, the screw-top rings that secure the lids until they are sealed

11. Bubble Remover & Headspace Measuring Tool to remove air bubbles and measure proper headspace

12. Clean towels on which to rest the hot jars, and paper towels to wipe rims

13. Sure Tight Band Tool to ensure that the band is tightened properly