Clear Jars as Illuminaries

Published July 19, 2012

We are so fortunate to be living in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. When the sun is out and the temperature heats up Vancouver is a stunning place to live and visit during the summer months.

If you are planning to host guests this summer or perhaps an intimate dinner party outdoors then this idea may be for you. Next time you finish that favorite jar of jam or preserves save it for another purpose. There are so many pretty glass jars that are filled with condiments in stores today. It seems a shame to recycle them too early.

This year keep a few around the house and make simple, outdoor lanterns. All you require is a roll of thin wire and a tea light to make your deck and surrounding trees sparkle.

Begin by placing your glass jar in the dishwasher to have it thoroughly clean. Measure around the circumference of the lip of the jar to determine the quantity of wire required to make a fairly loose loop. Cut the wire with a pair of wire cutters or sharp household scissors. Wind the wire around the neck of the jar and twist to secure. Be sure to leave enough room to fasten on handles.

The next step is to cut a piece of wire long enough to fasten to each side of the jar. You would like a piece long enough for a generous size handle approximately 4 inches from the top. Once the wire is cut, attach it to each side.

Place a standard tea light inside the jar and hang the lantern from a tree branch.

Be sure to hang the lantern with enough space away from any intruding tree branches and never leave the lantern unattended.