Cozy Up Your Home with DIY Jam Jar Leaf Lanterns

October 30, 2024

Here at TuTu’s Green World, we’re always looking for ways to turn the beauty of nature into family-friendly, eco-conscious crafts. These jam jar leaf lanterns are the perfect project to bring that warm autumn glow indoors! Not only are they beautiful to look at, but they’re also simple to make—and little hands will love the sticky fun of adding glue and colorful leaves!

What You’ll Need:

• Colorful fall leaves
• Clean jam jars or any glass jars you have on hand
• PVA glue (school glue works too)
• A paintbrush
• Cotton thread in cozy fall colors
• Tealights (LEDs are great for little kids!)

How to Make Your Lanterns:

Step 1: Gather Your Leaves

Start by taking a family walk to collect colorful fall leaves! Look for leaves in different colors, shapes, and sizes. Avoid leaves that are too dry or brittle—fresh ones are easier to work with.

Step 2: Prep Your Leaves

Once you’re home, place the leaves between two sheets of paper and press them under a heavy book for a few days. This will flatten and dry them gently. If you’re short on time, microwave them for a few minutes, but be careful not to overheat them, so they keep their rich colors.

Step 3: Decorate Your Jars

Now it’s time for the fun part! Brush a section of the jar with glue, then press a leaf onto the jar. Hold down the edges for a few seconds so it sticks well. Then, brush more glue over the top of the leaf to seal it in place.

Add more leaves around the jar, overlapping some to create beautiful patterns. Don’t worry if it looks messy—the glue will dry clear and create a soft, blurred look that adds to the cozy effect!

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch

While the glue is still wet, wrap colorful cotton thread around the top of the jar. This helps hold the leaves in place and adds a rustic, decorative touch.

Let the jars dry for several hours or overnight.

Step 5: Light It Up!

Place a tealight inside each jar to bring out the warm, golden glow of the leaves. For young ones, LED tealights work wonders! And if you’re lighting real candles, try using tongs to place them safely in the jar.

Now, sit back and enjoy the magical autumn glow these lanterns add to your home!

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