Fill mason jars with a secret ingredient and watch your garden come alive under the stars

Transform your garden into a magical oasis with Moonlit Mason Jar Lanterns. These enchanting DIY lanterns capture the ethereal beauty of moonlight, casting a soft glow that illuminates your outdoor space. Perfect for evening gatherings or a quiet night under the stars, these lanterns are an easy and affordable way to enhance your garden's ambiance. By using a secret ingredient, you can create a mesmerizing effect that will leave your guests in awe.

These Moonlit Mason Jar Lanterns can be styled to complement various garden themes. For a rustic look, use twine or burlap to hang the jars from tree branches or shepherd's hooks. If you prefer a more modern aesthetic, opt for sleek metal stands or arrange the jars along a stone pathway. Consider pairing them with fairy lights or string lights for an added layer of illumination. These lanterns also work well indoors, placed on a windowsill or as a centerpiece on a dining table, bringing a touch of the outdoors inside.

4 mason jars (quart size)
4 LED tealight candles
Glow-in-the-dark paint (1 small bottle)
Paintbrush
Twine or wire (optional, for hanging)
Clear sealant spray (optional, for outdoor use)

Clean the mason jars thoroughly and dry them completely.

Using the paintbrush, apply a thin layer of glow-in-the-dark paint to the inside of each jar. You can create patterns or cover the entire surface, depending on your preference.

Allow the paint to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Once dry, place an LED tealight candle inside each jar.

If you plan to hang the jars, wrap twine or wire around the neck of each jar, securing it tightly.

Optionally, spray a clear sealant over the painted areas if the lanterns will be exposed to the elements.

Place or hang the jars in your desired location, and enjoy the magical glow as they come alive under the stars.

For a personalized touch, consider experimenting with different colors of glow-in-the-dark paint to match your garden's theme. You can also use jars of varying sizes to create visual interest. If you prefer a more natural look, add small stones or sand to the bottom of the jars before placing the tealight candles. For a festive twist, incorporate seasonal decorations such as autumn leaves or winter pinecones inside the jars. Remember to recharge the glow-in-the-dark paint by exposing it to sunlight or artificial light before each use to ensure the best effect.