There’s something about amber glass and burlap that feels like October to me, even if the corn is still standing in the fields and the evenings have only just begun to cool off. This little fall accent light is one of those simple projects I love most: easy to make, inexpensive, and cozy enough to warm up a living room corner, mantel, or side table in just a few minutes.

I’m especially fond of projects like this because they don’t ask for fancy tools or a whole afternoon of fussing. If you can wrap ribbon around a jar and switch on a puck light, you can make these. They’re perfect for anyone who wants soft autumn glow without dealing with candle wax, cords, or anything complicated.

Amber mason jars, puck lights, burlap ribbon, and twine laid out for the project
Amber mason jars, puck lights, burlap ribbon, and twine laid out for the project

Materials

3 amber glass mason jars, pint size, 16-ounce each

3 battery-operated LED puck lights, 2.75 to 3 inches wide, warm white
1 roll burlap ribbon, 2 inches wide, at least 3 yards
6 feet natural jute twine, cut into three 24-inch lengths
12 clear glue dots, or 1 small sheet of double-sided adhesive dots
1 pair scissors
3 AAA batteries, if not included with the puck lights

Instructions

1. Wipe each amber jar inside and out with a dry cloth so the glass is clean and the burlap will sit neatly without dust underneath.

2. Insert batteries into the puck lights and test each one before putting it into a jar; I always do this first because it saves a lot of backtracking later.

3. Measure burlap ribbon around the center of each jar and cut 1 piece for each jar, about 12 to 14 inches long depending on the jar’s shape and how much overlap you want.

4. Wrap one burlap strip around the middle of each jar and secure the overlap at the back with 3 to 4 clear glue dots so the wrap stays snug.

5. Tie one 24-inch length of jute twine around the center of each burlap wrap and finish it in a simple bow or a square knot, whichever suits your style better.

6. Turn on a puck light and place one inside each jar, centering it at the bottom so the glow shines evenly through the amber glass.

7. Set the finished jars on a tray, mantel, bookshelf, or side table, spacing them a few inches apart so each light has room to glow on its own.

Finished amber mason jar accent lights with burlap wrap glowing warmly in a living room
Finished amber mason jar accent lights with burlap wrap glowing warmly in a living room

Variations & Tips

Add a fall tray display: I like to group these jars on a wooden tray with a few mini pinecones, acorns, or silk leaves around the base for a centerpiece that looks a little more dressed up.

Use different jar sizes: Quart jars make a stronger statement, while smaller jelly jars are lovely tucked onto a bookshelf or windowsill. Just make sure the puck light fits easily inside.

Choose the right light color: Warm white gives the prettiest autumn glow through amber glass. Cool white can look a little harsh, so I’d skip it for this particular project.

Keep the wrap removable: If you’d like to use the jars again in another season, secure the burlap with glue dots instead of permanent glue so you can peel it away later.

Layer the look: These pair beautifully with old books, a crock of dried wheat, or a folded quilt nearby. In my house, that sort of mix always makes a room feel settled and lived-in, which is half the charm of fall decorating.

Safety tip: Use only battery-operated LED puck lights for this project. I would not place real candles inside with burlap on the outside, because the whole point here is cozy light without the worry.