Repurposed mason jars turned into hanging lanterns are a charming and functional way to bring warmth and creativity into your home or outdoor space. These versatile lanterns add a touch of rustic elegance, making them perfect for any decor style, from bohemian and farmhouse to modern and industrial. With just a few simple materials, you can create beautiful, glowing lanterns that light up patios, dining rooms, or even weddings with cozy, ambient lighting.

Whether you’re a DIY beginner or an experienced crafter, mason jar lanterns are a fun and eco-friendly project. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of repurposed mason jar lanterns, creative design ideas, and step-by-step instructions to craft your very own.

1. What Are Mason Jar Hanging Lanterns?

Mason jar hanging lanterns are decorative lights made from upcycled mason jars, which serve as the base or holder for candles, LED lights, or fairy lights. The jars are hung using wire, rope, or chain, making them versatile enough to be used indoors or outdoors. Their simple yet elegant design makes them an excellent choice for mood lighting, centerpieces, or accent decor.

Key Features of Mason Jar Lanterns:

Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled mason jars, giving new life to old glass containers.
Customizable: Can be decorated with paint, etching, or embellishments to match any aesthetic.
Multi-Purpose: Used as hanging lights, table centerpieces, or wall sconces.
Soft Lighting: Provides warm, diffused light for cozy ambiance.

Where They Work Best:

Outdoors: Patios, gardens, or porches.
Indoors: Dining rooms, living rooms, or bedrooms.
Special Occasions: Weddings, parties, or holiday celebrations.

2. Benefits of Mason Jar Hanging Lanterns

Sustainable and Upcycled
By repurposing mason jars, you reduce waste and make an eco-conscious decor choice.

Budget-Friendly
Most materials, like jars and candles, are inexpensive or already available at home, making this a cost-effective DIY project.

Stylish and Versatile
The classic look of mason jars complements a wide range of styles, from rustic to industrial to boho chic.

Portable and Adaptable
Hanging lanterns can easily be moved or adjusted, making them ideal for both permanent installations and temporary events.

Customizable Lighting
Choose between candles, LED lights, or fairy lights to create the desired level of brightness and warmth.

Easy to Personalize
With countless decoration options—paint, twine, beads, or stencils—you can tailor each lantern to your taste or theme.

3. Materials and Tools You’ll Need

Materials

Mason jars (any size, but pint or quart-sized jars work best).
Wire (16-gauge or thicker for durability).
LED tea lights, candles, or fairy lights.
Twine, rope, or chain (for hanging).
Optional decorations: Paint, glitter, lace, or fabric.
Sand or small pebbles (optional, for stability).

Tools

Wire cutters.
Pliers (for bending and securing wire).
Hot glue gun or strong adhesive (for attaching decorations).
Paintbrushes (if painting).
Scissors (for cutting twine or fabric).
Drill (optional, for creating holes in jar lids).

4. How to Make Mason Jar Hanging Lanterns

Step 1: Clean and Prep the Jars

Wash the mason jars thoroughly to remove dirt, labels, or residue. Let them dry completely.
Decide if you want to leave the jars clear or decorate them with paint, stencils, or etching for a more customized look.

Step 2: Add Lighting

Fairy Lights: Insert a string of battery-powered fairy lights into the jar.
Tea Lights or Candles: Place a small candle or LED tea light inside the jar. Add sand or pebbles at the bottom to hold the candle in place and diffuse light.

Step 3: Create the Hanging Mechanism

Wire Handle:
1. Cut a piece of wire about 2–3 feet long.
2. Wrap the wire tightly around the neck of the mason jar, securing it with pliers.
3. Use the remaining wire to form a loop or handle for hanging.
Twine or Rope:
1. Tie a piece of twine securely around the neck of the jar, leaving enough length for hanging.
2. For a rustic look, wrap additional twine around the jar and secure with hot glue.
Chain:
1. Attach small chains to the jar using metal hooks or wire loops.
2. This is a great option for a more industrial or modern look.

Step 4: Decorate the Jars (Optional)

Paint: Use frosted glass paint, chalk paint, or metallic spray paint to add color and texture to the jars.
Glitter or Etching: Apply a thin layer of glue to the jar, sprinkle glitter over it, and shake off the excess. Alternatively, use glass etching cream for a frosted design.
Lace or Fabric: Wrap the jar in lace, burlap, or fabric for a soft, romantic look. Secure with glue or twine.

Step 5: Hang Your Lanterns

Choose a sturdy location to hang your lanterns, such as a tree branch, ceiling hook, pergola, or wall bracket.
Ensure the hanging mechanism is secure to prevent accidents.

5. Creative Ideas for Mason Jar Lanterns

1. Rustic Outdoor Lanterns

Use natural jute twine for hanging and fill the jars with tea lights or citronella candles to keep bugs away. Perfect for patios or gardens.

2. Coastal-Inspired Lanterns

Paint the jars in soft blue or aqua tones and fill them with sand and small seashells for a beachy vibe.

3. Wedding Centerpieces

Decorate jars with lace and fairy lights to create elegant centerpieces. Cluster them on tables or hang them from shepherd hooks.

4. Holiday-Themed Lanterns

Add festive touches like red ribbons, holly leaves, or glitter for Christmas, or pastel colors and floral accents for spring.

5. Industrial Chic Lanterns

Use black metal wire and chains for a modern, industrial look. Add Edison-style bulbs for a trendy touch.

6. Tips for Perfect Mason Jar Lanterns

Choose Durable Materials

Use strong wire, twine, or chain to ensure your lanterns hang securely.

Experiment with Light Sources

LED lights are safer and longer-lasting than real candles, especially for outdoor use.

Layer for Stability

If using candles, add a layer of sand, small rocks, or gravel at the bottom of the jar to prevent tipping.

Keep Decorations Heat-Safe

Avoid flammable materials like paper or fabric if using real candles.

Seal for Outdoor Use

Spray a waterproof sealant on decorated jars to protect them from moisture and weather.

7. Why Mason Jar Hanging Lanterns Are a Great DIY Project

Mason jar hanging lanterns combine functionality and style, making them a timeless addition to any home or event. Their versatility allows them to shine in a variety of settings, from rustic outdoor patios to chic indoor dining spaces. Best of all, they’re easy to customize, making them perfect for DIY enthusiasts who want to add a personal touch to their decor. By repurposing old jars, you also contribute to sustainability while creating beautiful, practical lighting solutions.

8. FAQs About Mason Jar Hanging Lanterns

1. Can I use real candles in mason jar lanterns?
Yes, but ensure proper ventilation and use sand or pebbles to stabilize the candle. LED lights are a safer alternative.

2. Are mason jar lanterns safe for outdoor use?
Yes, as long as they are securely hung and weatherproofed with a sealant. Use battery-powered lights for safety.

3. What type of wire is best for hanging mason jars?
A durable 16- to 18-gauge wire works well for creating handles and hanging mechanisms.

4. Can I paint the inside of the jar?
Yes, but avoid painting the interior if you’re using real candles, as the paint could overheat.

5. How do I make the jars weatherproof?
Spray a waterproof sealant on the exterior decorations and use battery-powered lights for moisture resistance.

6. Where can I hang mason jar lanterns?
Hang them from trees, pergolas, ceilings, fences, or wall brackets. Use shepherd hooks for weddings or outdoor events.

7. Can I use colored mason jars?
Absolutely! Pre-colored mason jars add a unique touch without additional decoration.

8. How do I prevent the jars from overheating?
Use LED lights or tea lights with a flame-safe design. Avoid prolonged use of real candles in enclosed jars.

9. What other materials can I use to hang jars?
Chains, ribbons, macrame holders, or metal brackets are all great options.

10. Are mason jar lanterns eco-friendly?
Yes! They repurpose old jars and often use sustainable materials like natural twine and LED lights.

Repurposed mason jar hanging lanterns are a creative and sustainable way to brighten up your home or outdoor space. From cozy patios to elegant weddings, these DIY lanterns bring warmth, charm, and personality to any setting. Get started today and enjoy the glow of your handmade creations!

Repurposed Mason Jars into Hanging Lanterns