There are some projects that feel especially satisfying because they turn the plainest little castoffs into something useful and lovely. These autumn bug repellent luminaries are just that sort of thing. With a few old glass jam jars, a simple fall accent, and a homemade bug-fighting fill, you can make patio lights that glow softly at dusk while helping keep the mosquitoes at bay.
Out where I live, late summer and early fall evenings are too pretty to waste indoors, but the bugs do not always get the memo. I like projects that are practical first and pretty second, and this one manages to be both. If you enjoy easy seasonal decorating, simple upcycling, or making your porch table feel a little more welcoming for supper outside, this is a fine afternoon project.
Materials
Instructions
1. Wash the jam jars well with hot soapy water, then wipe them dry and clean the inside with a little rubbing alcohol or vinegar so the glass is clear and free of residue.
2. Wrap jute twine around the neck of each jar three to four times, tie it in a snug bow or knot, and tuck in one faux autumn leaf pick so each jar gets a simple fall accent.
3. Add 1/2 cup of dried corn kernels to the bottom of each jar to give the luminaries a warm harvest look and a bit of weight for outdoor use.
4. Place 1 dried orange slice, 2 rosemary sprigs, and 1 cinnamon stick into each jar, arranging them so they show nicely through the glass.
5. Pour about 8 ounces of citronella lamp oil into each jar, leaving at least 1 inch of space at the top so the jars are easy to move without sloshing.
6. Set one wick into each jar, keeping the metal tab resting at the bottom and the wick standing upright above the oil; let it soak for 20 to 30 minutes before lighting.
7. Trim the exposed wick to about 1/4 inch if needed, then place the jars on a steady patio table, step, or outdoor sideboard with a few inches between them.
8. Light the wicks at dusk and enjoy the soft glow; when you are finished for the evening, extinguish the flames carefully and let the jars cool completely before moving them.
Variations & Tips
For a stronger fall look: Tuck in a few extra faux leaves around the twine or add a small bit of raffia, but keep decorations well away from the flame at the jar opening.
For larger jars: If your jam jars are closer to 24 ounces, simply increase the corn kernels to 3/4 cup and the citronella oil to around 10 to 12 ounces per jar.
For safer outdoor use: I always set these on a flat, non-wobbly surface where sleeves, napkins, and little hands will not brush against them.
To keep them looking clear: Wipe the outside glass before lighting so the orange slices and rosemary show through nicely; that little bit of shine makes them look much prettier at supper time.
To refresh the jars: Replace the rosemary and orange slices after several uses if they begin to fade, and top off the citronella oil as needed before each evening outdoors.
A simple hosting idea: I like to group all three down the center of a patio table with a small bowl of apples or mini pumpkins nearby. It makes the whole space feel dressed for autumn without much fuss at all.