Can I set my jars directly on the bottom of the canner?

[bluegrassmom]

Or do I have to have that cage thing between the bottom of the canner and the jars?

[Violet]

That is the rack. You need some sort of rack to keep the jars off the bottom so they don't break. Sitting them right on the bottom can easily cause them to break.

 

[Cat]

You can use anything to raise the jars... a layer of table knives (make as level as possible!), extra canning rings set very close together, etc.

 

I've heard of using a folded kitchen towel, but I'd prefer something metal, myself.

 

 

 

[bluegrassmom]

Thanks about the tip of using the canning rings! Great idea!!