From the page: The glass jar still has plenty of stories left in it
Idea 6
Rustic candle holder or lantern
Turning glass jars into lanterns and candle holders is an old tradition in the countryside, where canning jars were used to protect the flame from the wind. Glass works because it lets light through diffusely but blocks the movement of air, keeping the flame steady and safe.
What you need
- Clean, dry glass jars in various heights
- Taper candles or pillar candles (or candles to melt and mold)
- Sand, coarse salt, or pebbles for the base
- Jute twine, raffia, or fabric scraps
- Hot glue or contact cement
- Optional: lace, leather strips, ribbons
How to make it
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1
Wash the jar and remove all label residue with warm soapy water; any grease keeps the glue from sticking and stains the glass in the light.
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2
Add a layer of sand or coarse salt to the bottom, about two fingers deep; this holds the candle in place and reflects light upward.
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3
Fit the candle in the center of the base; if it's a pillar candle, press lightly so it sits firm and doesn't tip over.
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4
Tie jute twine or fabric around the neck, with two or three wraps and a firm knot, tucking the end underneath; the finish at the mouth of the jar gives it the rustic look.
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5
If you want to hang it, make a net of twine with firm knots around the body of the jar, leaving even loops to balance the weight.
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6
Light the candle and adjust: if the flame gets too tall inside the jar, use a smaller candle so the glass doesn't overheat.
Finishing touches
Group three jars of different heights in the same space to create visual rhythm — the variation in height is what gives it charm. For outdoor events, the coarse sand in the bottom weighs the jar down and keeps the wind from knocking everything over.
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