I am such a sucker for a project that turns “why am I still keeping this?” into something I actually want to put on my table, and this fall lantern trio does exactly that. If you have a few old glass pickle jars, some twine, and a scrap of burlap, you can make a cozy set of autumn lanterns that looks surprisingly polished for how inexpensive it is.
This is the kind of craft I reach for when I want seasonal décor without committing a whole Saturday to it. I’ve made versions of these on a busy weeknight after dinner, and they’re especially nice if you want a centerpiece, mantel accent, or porch display that feels warm and homemade without being fussy.
Materials
3 empty glass pickle jars, cleaned and labels removed, in small/medium/large sizes (about 16 oz, 24 oz, and 32 oz)
Instructions
1. Wash the jars in warm soapy water, remove the labels, and scrub off any sticky residue so the glass is completely clean and dry.
2. Cut three pieces of burlap ribbon to fit around the middle of each jar, overlapping the ends by about 1 inch.
3. Add a thin line of hot glue to the back of each burlap strip and press it around the jar, keeping the ribbon centered and smooth.
4. Wrap twine around the top and bottom edges of each burlap band 4 to 5 times, then tie or glue the twine in place at the back.
5. Cut a 24-inch piece of twine for each jar neck, wrap it around the top rim 3 times, and knot it securely to create a finished collar.
6. Trim faux leaves and berry sprigs into small clusters, then tuck and glue one cluster onto the front knot area of each jar.
7. If you want extra security, press a glue dot behind any leaf or berry piece that lifts away from the glass or twine.
8. Place one battery tea light inside each jar and turn them on to check the glow through the clear glass.
9. Arrange the three lanterns together from tallest to shortest on a tray, mantel, or table runner for a simple fall display.
Variations & Tips
Use what jars you have: Matching jars look tidy, but I actually like this project better when the three jars are slightly different heights because it gives the display more character.
Try a softer color palette: If bright orange isn’t your thing, use cream leaves, muted greenery, and a little cinnamon-brown ribbon for a more neutral fall look.
Keep it flame-free: I strongly recommend battery tea lights instead of real candles since pickle jars can trap heat and the twine and burlap are decorative materials.
Make it dinner-table friendly: When I use these as a centerpiece, I keep the leaf clusters small so guests can still see across the table without a giant arrangement blocking the conversation.
Add a handle: For a hanging version, wrap extra twine or thin wire under the jar rim and twist it into a loop, but only if you plan to use lightweight LED candles.
Prep ahead: If you’re squeezing this into a busy week like I usually am, clean the jars the night before and let them dry upside down so assembly goes really fast the next day.