These textured harvest luminaries are one of my favorite little decorating projects for early fall, mostly because they look far fancier than the materials would suggest. I start with empty toilet paper rolls, wrap them in a couple of simple craft supplies, and end up with a trio of cozy candle holders that look lovely on a mantel, entry table, or right in the middle of a supper table with a bowl of apples nearby.
If you like seasonal décor that is inexpensive, quick, and easy to customize, this is a wonderful project to try. I also love that it uses up recyclables, which always makes me feel a little extra resourceful, and the finished set of three is just right for anyone who wants that warm harvest look without hauling out bins of complicated decorations.
Materials
Instructions
1. Set out your 3 toilet paper rolls and lightly press any dents back into shape so each one stands evenly. Wipe away dust and make sure the rolls are fully dry before you begin.
2. Cut three felt rectangles to wrap the rolls: one 4 x 6 inch piece from orange felt, one 4 x 6 inch piece from cream felt, and one 4 x 6 inch piece from brown felt. Test-wrap each piece around a roll and trim if needed so the edges meet neatly without too much overlap.
3. Spread a thin line of tacky glue along one side of the first roll, wrap the matching felt around it, and press the seam closed. Repeat with the other two rolls, then let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes so the felt grips well.
4. Add a small dot of glue near the bottom edge of one felt-covered roll and press the end of the jute twine into it. Begin wrapping the twine snugly around the roll, keeping the rows close together for a ribbed, textured look.
5. Continue wrapping until you reach the top, adding a tiny dab of glue every couple of inches to keep the twine from slipping. Cut the twine and glue the end down neatly at the top edge.
6. Repeat the twine wrapping on the other two rolls, varying the texture if you like by spacing a few rows slightly farther apart on one luminary and keeping the others tightly packed. That little difference is what makes a grouped set look collected instead of overly matched.
7. Check the top opening of each luminary and gently widen it with your fingers if the twine has pulled the roll inward. Place one battery tealight inside each roll so the light sits low and glows through the top.
8. Arrange the three luminaries together in a staggered cluster on a tray, mantel, or table centerpiece. If you want a fuller harvest display, tuck in a few mini pumpkins, acorns, or faux leaves around the base after the glue is fully dry.
Variations & Tips
For picky decorators: If bold fall colors are not your thing, make the set in all neutrals like oatmeal, tan, and soft gray. I do this sometimes when I want the harvest look to blend in with everyday kitchen décor.
Safer lighting: Use only battery-operated tealights for this project since the base is cardboard and felt. I keep a stash of LED candles on hand for family decorating projects because they give the cozy glow without any worry.
Extra texture: Try wrapping only the middle section with twine and leaving felt visible at the top and bottom for a color-blocked look. That version is especially pretty if you are setting these on a buffet or holiday table.
Easy embellishments: Glue on one small felt leaf, acorn shape, or simple twine bow to each luminary if you want more detail. I would keep it modest, though, because the texture is really the star here.
Make them taller: To create height variation in your trio, stack and glue two rolls together for one of the luminaries, then wrap it the same way. Just be sure to cover the seam well with felt and twine so it looks intentional.
Kid-helpful tip: If children want to help, let them choose the felt colors or hand you the twine while you do the gluing and wrapping. It is a nice little after-school craft setup, and the finished trio looks sweet enough to set out all season.