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DIY Lantern with Pressed Ferns

Here's an easy tutorial that shows you how to make this mason jar candle lantern decorated with ferns and a handle so you can carry it around in the dark.
Prep Time5 minutes
Active Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Cost: $5

Equipment

  • pair of scissors
  • needlenose pliers
  • Sponge brush
  • microwave oven
  • pencil

Materials

Instructions

  • Trim your ferns to fit the height of the jar.
  • Sandwich fresh fern cuttings between paper towels and place in the microwave under a heavy microwave safe pan.
  • Microwave the ferns on 50% power for about 1 minute. Check to see if they are flat and dry.
  • Brush glue on the front of the ferns and place inside the mason jar on the side wall.
  • Use a pencil to help guide it into place.
  • Continue with the remaining ferns.
  • Place a velcro dot on the bottom of a flameless tea light.
  • Then press it onto the underside of the mason jar lid.
  • Use some wire to wrap around the neck of the mason jar.
  • Before tightening the wire, add another piece of wire about 12-15 inches long for the handle.
  • Use needle nose pliers to secure the handle with loops. Then cut and tighten the wire around the neck of the mason jar.

Notes

If you want you could use a flameless votive candle in the bottom of the lantern. This would give more light and show more. I would still secure it with a velcro dot.
I love the look of ferns but you could use other greenery or flowers that you dry and press.
You could substitute twine for the wire in a pinch but it's not as durable.
It may take a day or two for any excess glue to dry and turn clear but never fear it will clear up eventually.
Tried this project?Tag @hearthnvine on Instagram