Mason jar lanterns are an easy and affordable way to add a rustic touch to your decor.
Not only are they super simple to make, but they can really bring a cozy atmosphere to any room.
With just some basic supplies and a few steps, you’ll be able to create your own DIY mason jar lantern in no time.
Whether you’re looking for a fun craft project for yourself or something special for someone else, this is the perfect solution!
Gather Your Materials
Gathering the materials you need for a DIY mason jar lantern isn’t hard. You’ll need a mason jar, of course, as well as some battery-powered tea lights to put inside it. You’ll also need something to hang the lantern with – twine, string, or ribbon will do. If you want to get creative, you can also add decorations like beads or paint. Once you’ve got all your items together, you’re ready to begin!
Start by deciding which decorations you’d like to use on your mason jar lantern and gathering them up. If you’re using paint, make sure you have enough colors to create the design that’s in your head. Beads and other small decorations can be arranged however suits your fancy. Keep in mind that the end product should be something that looks attractive when lit up at night.
It’s time to assemble your lantern! Place the tea lights into the mason jar and arrange them if needed so they look balanced. Secure the decorations around the outside of the jar however feels comfortable for you – this is where creativity comes in! Finally, tie a piece of twine or string around the top of the jar so it can easily be hung up when finished.
Now your DIY mason jar lantern is complete!
Choose Your Mason Jar
The power of a mason jar lantern to bring beauty and light into your life is undeniable. From its humble beginnings, this simple container has been used to create something far greater than itself.
As you consider your own diy mason jar lantern project, it’s important to choose the right vessel for the job. When selecting a mason jar for your project, there are several things to consider. The size, shape and style of the jar should all fit with the rest of your design elements, as well as be practical.
If you’re planning on using battery-operated lights or adding decorations like beads and string, be sure to pick a size that will accommodate them comfortably. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that any handles or lids on the jar won’t interfere with the finished product’s overall look or function.
Once you’ve found just the right mason jar for your project, it’s time to move on to other components like paint and lights. With careful planning and creative thoughtfulness, you can create a stunning diy mason jar lantern that adds both beauty and illumination to any space in your home or garden.
Prep Your Mason Jar
Having chosen your Mason jar, it’s time to get it ready. First, you’ll need a few supplies to make sure the lantern is safe and secure.
Gather a drill, an LED string light set, twine or ribbon for decoration, and a masonry bit that’s slightly larger than the LED light bulb base.
Next, you’ll want to prepare your Mason jar. Start by drilling small holes in the lid for the lights to fit through. Make sure not to drill too close together as this may cause them to touch when inserted and create a potential fire hazard.
If you’re having trouble making sure each hole is evenly spaced apart, use a ruler or tape measure as a guide. When all of the holes have been drilled, carefully thread the lights through each one until they are securely in place. You may need to twist them around slightly so they fit snugly into the lid and don’t slip out.
Finally, decorate your lantern with twine or ribbon and then replace the lid onto your Mason jar – you’ve now created your own DIY mason jar lantern!
Select Your Candle
Choosing the right candle for your mason jar lantern is an important step. There are several types of candles to choose from, and each type has advantages and disadvantages.
Pillar candles are long-lasting and come in a variety of sizes, so they can be used in any size jar. If you want to add a statement or decorative look to your lantern, you may opt for shaped or scented candles.
Votive candles give off a soft light, but have a shorter burn time than pillar candles. Tealight candles are small and won’t take up much space in the jar, but they also don’t last as long as votive or pillar candles.
When deciding on a type of candle, consider both its size and lifespan before making your selection. Pillar candles will last longer than smaller votive or tealight options, but may not fit inside smaller jars. Shaped or scented candles can add a unique touch to your lanterns, but may not have the same longevity as other options.
Think carefully about what kind of lighting you need for your mason jar lanterns before making a purchase. No matter which type of candle you decide on, make sure it fits snugly within the mason jar without coming into contact with the sides of the glass – this will help prevent fire hazards when lit.
Store them in an area where they won’t be exposed to moisture and will stay dry until you’re ready to use them in your lanterns!
Choose Your Lantern Wire
When it comes to wiring your mason jar lantern, you have a few options. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider all of them before making a decision. Here’s a breakdown of the options:
- Wire Types
- Plastic-Coated Copper Wire: This is the most common type of wire used in mason jar lanterns. It’s relatively inexpensive and can be easily manipulated into any shape or form. The downside is that it can become brittle over time and may not last as long as other types of wire.
- Silicon Wire: Silicon wire is more expensive than copper wire but is much more durable and flexible. It won’t break down as quickly and can withstand higher temperatures than copper, making it ideal for outdoor use. However, it can be difficult to work with and requires special tools to properly install.
- Wire Gauge Sizes
- 18 Gauge: This is the standard size for most mason jar lanterns. It’s thin enough to be manipulated easily, but thick enough to handle light loads without overheating or breaking down quickly.
- 20 Gauge: This thicker gauge size is best for heavier-duty applications where more power may be required. It’s also more durable than 18 gauge wire, but it’s less flexible and may require specialized tools for installation.
Whichever type of wire you choose, make sure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when installing it in order to ensure your safety while using the lantern.
Additionally, always check the wattage rating on the wires before connecting them to avoid an overloaded circuit or short circuit situation which could damage your equipment or even cause an electrical fire.
Cut The Wire To The Desired Length
Now that you’ve chosen the best lantern wire for your DIY mason jar lantern, it’s time to cut the wire to the desired length. Before you begin cutting, make sure you have the right tools available. You’ll need a pair of wire cutters or scissors and a measuring tape or ruler.
To ensure an accurate result, measure twice and cut once. Measure out the length of wire that you need for your project and double-check your measurements before cutting. If you’re happy with them, snip away! Make sure to leave some extra length of wire in case you need it later.
Once your wire is cut to size, you can begin prepping it for your mason jar lantern project. Start by stripping away any plastic coating from the ends – if needed – and use a needle-nose pliers or other tool to twist each end into a loop shape for hanging.
Now your lantern wire is ready for assembly!
Create The Lantern Handle
The next step in creating a DIY mason jar lantern is to create the lantern handle. This can be done easily with some twine, yarn, or rope and a few simple tools.
To begin, cut two pieces of twine that are twice as long as the circumference of your mason jar.
Tie each piece into a loop, forming handles for your lantern.
Now wrap each loop around the top of the mason jar securely, making sure to cross them on the opposite sides.
Once you have crossed them, tie them together in one tight knot at the center of the mason jar lid.
Your lantern is now complete! Hang it up or place it on a flat surface and add a candle to give off an inviting glow.
Enjoy your homemade lantern that you made with ease!
Attach The Handle To The Wire
The first step in creating a mason jar lantern is to attach the handle to the wire.
Start by cutting your wire into two pieces, one for each side of the handle. Make sure that these pieces are long enough to fit over the edges of the mason jar lid and reach out from either side.
Once your pieces are cut, take one piece of wire and wrap it around the top of one end of your handle. Secure it by twisting it tightly around itself until you can no longer see any gaps between the wire and handle.
Next, do this same process with the other piece of wire on the opposite end of your handle. Make sure that both pieces have been securely twisted together so that they will remain attached when hung up.
Now, connect both ends of your handle onto either side of your mason jar lid by threading them through the pre-cut holes in each side and then twisting them back onto themselves again. Finally, twist each end together until they are secure and can no longer be moved or pulled apart.
Your mason jar lantern is now ready to be hung up! Just make sure that you hang it away from any flammable items or surfaces in order to prevent any potential accidents.
With a bit more creativity, you can also add lights or decorations inside your mason jar lantern for a truly unique look that’s perfect for any occasion!
Secure The Handle To The Mason Jar
Now that the handle is securely attached to the wire, it’s time to secure it onto the mason jar.
Begin by threading the wire through one of the holes in the mason jar lid. Make sure it’s threaded far enough so that it won’t come loose when you’re holding up your lantern.
Once you have threaded the wire, use a pair of pliers to secure each end of the wire firmly against the lid of the mason jar.
Finally, make sure that your handle is firmly attached and won’t come loose in your hands when you’re carrying your lantern around.
With just a few simple steps, you can now proudly showcase your DIY Mason Jar Lantern for all to admire!
Insert The Candle Into The Mason Jar
Inserting a candle into your mason jar lantern is a simple but critical step. To ensure your lantern is lit safely, you must use the right kind of candle. For example, make sure to choose a candle that fits properly inside the jar and one that won’t easily tip over. If necessary, you can cut down the length of the wick before lighting it.
Once the correct candle has been chosen and correctly placed within the mason jar, it’s time to light it. However, make sure to never leave a burning candle unattended, as this can present a fire hazard.
Additionally, you should also keep any flammable materials away from your lantern and be mindful of where you place it in order to prevent accidental fires from occurring.
By following these steps carefully when inserting a candle into your mason jar lantern and lighting it, you can enjoy its soothing glow without worrying about potential hazards or damage. With proper preparation and caution, your mason jar lantern will provide many nights of peaceful illumination.
Measure And Cut The Candle Wick
The quest for light is an ancient one, and has been sought after by many through the ages. The mason jar lantern is a timeless way of bringing light into a space in a beautiful way. Crafting your own lantern can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience that can bring illumination to both you and your home.
To make this special project, begin by measuring and cutting the candle wick to fit the desired size of the mason jar. Cut the wick slightly longer than the desired height so it can be trimmed to fit accurately later on. Threading the wick through a metal piece at the top of the jar will help keep it in place as it is being lit. Make sure to leave enough length on each end of the wick so that it can be placed properly inside when ready.
Once cut and threaded, use hot glue or adhesive to secure each end of the wick onto either side of the lid or bottom of your jar. This will ensure that it remains in place when you start filling up your lantern with wax or oil, depending on what type you decide to use.
With this important step complete, your mason jar lantern is now ready for its final touches!
Secure The Wick To The Mason Jar Lid
To secure the wick to the mason jar lid, you’ll want to use hot glue. Start by cutting a length of wick and placing it in the center of the lid. Make sure that the wick is long enough so that it will reach down into the bottom of the jar when finished.
Then, use a hot glue gun to carefully apply a small amount of glue around the edges and on top of the middle section of the lid. Allow a few minutes for the glue to dry before proceeding with assembly.
Once your wick is securely attached to your mason jar lid, you can begin assembling your lantern. Start by screwing on your ring onto the lid. Make sure that it’s tight and secure, as this will help keep your wick in place throughout use.
Next, add an extra layer of decoration by tying some twine or ribbon around the center hole in your ring if desired. This step is completely optional but adds an extra bit of charm!
Now that everything is connected together, fill up your mason jar with battery-powered LED lights or regular tea lights and enjoy! The light from this DIY mason jar lantern will bring a warm glow to any space and make for beautiful decor at nightfall.
Add The Candle Wax
Getting excited yet? It’s time to add the final element of your mason jar lantern – the candle wax! This will help ensure that your candle can burn safely and brightly.
To start, make sure you have all the materials you need from our list:
- Candle wax
- A double boiler
- A spoon or other stirring implement
- A wick
- And don’t forget, a mason jar!
Once you’ve gathered everything together, it’s time to start melting your wax. Place the wax into the double boiler and turn on a medium heat. Use your stirring implement to stir continuously until all of the wax is melted. Be careful not to let it burn or become too hot.
Once it is completely melted, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before pouring it into your mason jar.
Now place your wick in the center of your mason jar and tie its upper end around a pencil so that it stays centered. Then slowly pour in some of the melted wax, filling up about one third of the jar in total. Allow this to cool for at least an hour before adding more wax until your mason jar is filled up to just below its rim.
Finally, trim off any excess wick so that there is only one inch left sticking out of the top of your jar. Congratulations – you have just made a beautiful diy mason jar lantern!
Place The Lid On The Mason Jar
Now that the Mason jar is assembled, it’s time to place the lid back on. Start by placing the lid on top of the jar and then screwing it on firmly. It’s important to make sure all four screws are tight so that no light escapes from the lantern. The screws should be screwed in firmly but not too tightly as this could cause them to break or become loose over time.
The next step is to place a tea-light candle inside the jar and light it up. If you’re using a battery powered LED light, simply turn it on. Either way, make sure the flame or LED light doesn’t come into contact with any part of the Mason jar as this could cause a fire hazard or damage to your lantern.
Now you have a beautiful mason jar lantern that can be used both indoors and outdoors! Place your lantern in an area where there’s plenty of ventilation and be sure to keep it away from flammable objects.
Enjoy your DIY masterpiece!
Decorate Your Lantern
Adding a personal touch to your mason jar lantern is a great way to give it an extra special shine. Not only will you be able to decorate it however you’d like, but it also gives you the opportunity to express yourself and make a unique piece of art.
Whether you’re looking for something subtle or more fun, there are plenty of ways to spruce up your lantern and make it truly yours. One of the best ways to decorate your mason jar lantern is with paint or markers. You can go wild with colors and patterns, or even try drawing images on the glass.
For an even easier look, use some washi tape or ribbon around the outside of the jar instead. There are also plenty of stencils available that allow you to quickly and easily create a beautiful design in no time at all.
No matter what kind of look you’re going for, there’s bound to be something that fits perfectly within your vision. Get creative and have fun with it! You may just find yourself making multiple lanterns as gifts for family and friends too – they’re sure to love them!
Seal The Mason Jar With Glue
Creating a mason jar lantern is a surprisingly easy and fun project to do. It can bring a unique touch of rustic charm to any room or outdoor space, and the best part is that it only takes a few simple steps to create.
In this section, we will look at how to seal the mason jar with glue so that you can enjoy your homemade lantern for years to come.
The first step in sealing the mason jar is to choose your adhesive. A good option for this task is a waterproof glue like silicone caulk or hot glue. Both of these materials will create an airtight, waterproof seal around the rim of the jar and keep it securely closed.
Apply an even layer of glue all along the rim of the jar using either your finger or a brush. This will help ensure that the entire circumference of the lid has been sealed.
Once you have applied your adhesive, it’s important to wait until it dries completely before moving on with the assembly process. Depending on what type of glue you used, this could take anywhere from several minutes to overnight.
Once dry, you can be sure that your mason jar lantern is now securely sealed and ready for use!
Choose Your Lantern Decorations
Having sealed the mason jar with glue, it’s now time to decorate our lantern! Decorating your mason jar lantern doesn’t have to be complicated. All you need is some imagination and a few craft supplies.
Start by wrapping a piece of twine around the outside of the jar. This will give your lantern a rustic touch.
Then, add some beads or other embellishments to create a unique pattern. If you want to add extra sparkle, try stringing small fairy lights around the outside of the jar.
Finally, top off your design with a battery-operated candle or tea light! The warm glow will give your mason jar lantern an inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for any occasion.
With just a few simple steps, you can transform an ordinary mason jar into an eye-catching decoration!
Add The Decorations To The Mason Jar
The beauty of a mason jar lantern lies in how it can be customized to reflect one’s own personal style. Decorations such as paint or twine can add an extra layer of creative flair and individuality, transforming the lantern into a unique piece of art.
With these decorations, the mason jar lantern can become something much more than just an ordinary object – it can become a reflection of the maker’s personality.
Adding decorations to the mason jar is relatively easy, and requires only basic crafting materials. Paint is perhaps the simplest option, as it allows for full coverage of the entire surface without sacrificing any detail. Twine is also a great choice for adding texture and depth to the lantern; wrapping it around the lid or using hot glue to attach it along the body offers endless possibilities for design.
Finally, adding small trinkets or charms on top of the lid can enhance its overall appeal while also serving as a reminder of its special meaning.
Through these decorations, each mason jar lantern becomes a unique expression of creativity and self-expression – something that will bring both joy and light into any home.
Cut Out The Ventilation Hole
Now that we have decorated the mason jar, it’s time to prepare it for use. To make sure the lantern is properly ventilated, we will need to cut a hole in the lid. This process is simple and can be done with a few supplies you may already have at home.
Here are the materials you’ll need:
- Tools
- A utility knife (or other sharp, cutting tool)
- A ruler or measuring tape
- Supplies
- Mason jar lid
- Pencil or marker
To begin, measure and mark a spot on the lid using your pencil or marker. Make sure that this spot is centered and not too close to any of the edges of the lid.
Next, take your utility knife and carefully cut out a hole from the mark you made earlier. Remember to be careful when using sharp tools like this! Once you finish cutting out your ventilation hole, set your mason jar aside and move onto the next step.
Paint The Mason Jar
Paint is an easy and effective way to add a special touch to your DIY mason jar lantern. You can choose from a wide variety of colors, finishes and textures available at your local craft store.
First, decide on the color you’d like to use for your mason jar.
Next, wash the jar with warm soapy water and let it dry thoroughly before applying paint.
Once the jar is dry, you can begin painting. Be sure to apply multiple thin coats of paint for even coverage and better adhesion. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.
To finish off, you may want to seal the paint with a clear acrylic sealer or varnish. This will help protect the paint from scratches and fading due to weathering and sun exposure.
With these simple steps, you can create a unique and stylish mason jar lantern that will look great in your home or garden!
Add The Wire And Handle
Now that you have finished painting your mason jar, it is time to make it into a lantern.
To do so, you’ll need wire and a handle.
Start by cutting a length of wire that will fit around the circumference of your jar. It should be just long enough to be able to twist the ends together, but not too long as to leave excess wire sticking out when it’s twisted closed.
Once cut, wrap the wire around the jar in an overlapping spiral pattern until it reaches the other end and then twist the ends together securely.
Next, you’ll need to add a handle for carrying or hanging your mason jar lantern.
For this, use an extra piece of wire and shape it into a small loop at each end. Then, firmly attach one end of the looped handle onto one side of your lantern with some pliers or twine and attach the other side on the opposite side in the same way.
You’ve now completed all steps necessary to create your own DIY mason jar lantern!
With its beautiful painted finish, sturdy wire accents, and convenient handle – this handmade piece is sure to light up any room and make a great addition to your home décor.
Hang The Mason Jar Lantern
Hanging the mason jar lantern is a simple process that requires minimal effort. First, you need to gather the necessary materials: a mason jar, rope or string, scissors or wire cutters and a drill.
Next, you will need to measure and cut the rope or string to a length that fits your desired location. You can use scissors or wire cutters to do this.
After that, you will need to drill a hole in the lid of your mason jar big enough for the rope or string to fit through. Then, thread the rope or string through the hole in your lid and tie it off tightly at both ends so it won’t pull out.
Now, you have assembled your mason jar lantern and are ready to hang it up! Find a suitable spot for your lantern and tie off both ends of the rope securely around something sturdy like an overhang bracket or railing.
And there you have it – your own beautiful handmade mason jar lantern!
Light The Candle
Making a mason jar lantern looks daunting, but in reality, it’s quite simple. The key to getting your lantern lit is the candle inside.
To light the candle all you need is a long match or lighter. Start by unscrewing the lid of the mason jar and inserting your candle into the center. Make sure that the wick of the candle is sticking out from the top of the jar and that it isn’t too close to any sides as this can cause issues with lighting it later on.
Once your candle is in place, replace the lid and use your match or lighter to light it. Gently blow on the flame for a few seconds until it has grown in size and intensity before moving away from it.
You’ll now have a beautiful mason jar lantern to decorate your home or use outside!
Clean And Store The Lantern
Having finished the mason jar lantern, it is important to take the necessary steps of cleaning and storing the lantern correctly. It is not only a matter of keeping it neat and tidy, but also ensuring that it is kept in good condition so that it can be reused or repurposed.
First and foremost, be sure to unplug the electrical components from any source of electricity before handling.
Assemble all necessary materials for cleaning such as a damp cloth, a dry cloth and some mild dish detergent.
Begin with wiping down the outside surface of the jar to remove any dust or dirt that may have accumulated on it.
Dip a corner of one of the damp cloths into the soapy water and wring out any excess moisture before using it to gently scrub away at any stubborn dirt or grime.
Rinse off any soap residue with clean water from the other damp cloth and dry thoroughly with the dry cloth afterward.
Finally, store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use.
Enjoy Your Diy Mason Jar Lantern!
Now that your mason jar lantern is clean and stored away safely, it’s time to enjoy it! Whether you plan to use it indoors or outdoors, the possibilities are endless.
You can fill your lantern with LED lights for a soft glow or even hang it from a tree branch for an outdoor display. It can also be used as a centerpiece for special occasions or just for fun at home.
Once you’ve decided how to use your mason jar lantern, you can begin creating the perfect atmosphere. Place candles inside and light them up for a romantic dinner, or add in some colorful stones and seashells for a beach-inspired look.
You could also fill it with small plants and hang it up in the garden – whatever your imagination desires!
The best thing about this project is that you don’t need to worry about the mess of open flames or wires – all you need is the finished product and its ready to go. So gather your materials, get creative and start crafting!
Enjoy your unique DIY mason jar lantern today.