Mason Jar Luminary

Mason Jar Luminary

Don’t let a power outage darken your creativity. Grab some mason jars and create unique luminaries to light up the night!

Materials:

  • Mason Jars
  • Mod Podge
  • Colored Tissue Paper
  • Paint Brush
  • Candle
  • Scissors

Step 1: Grab some tissue paper and either rip or cut it into pieces to use on your jar. Look for colors that work well together or use them all to create a rainbow look. 

Step 2: Use the paintbrush to cover the outside of the mason jar with Mod Podge in sections where you want to start layering on tissue paper. 

Step 3: Press the pieces of tissue paper over the Mod Podge areas and flatten them against the jar. Continue until you have completed your desired design.

Step 4: Brush a final coat of Mod Podge around the entire outside of the jar to seal in your design. 

Step 5: Place a candle inside the jar to create the luminary effect. Only place the lid on the jar to extinguish the flame. (Battery-operated candles work as well!)

Ideas to take the mason jar luminary to the next level:

  • Instead of gluing colored tissue paper, try using sheer pieces of fabric, thin leaves, and flower petals onto the jar. 

Learning and Discussion Questions:

1. Did you know New Jersey is the home of the mason jar? Read this article in The Atlantic to learn about the history of this glass object. 

2. Mason jars create fun decorations in many ways! Check out this website for more ideas. 

3. Many people are using their jars for more than preserving food. Mason jars have a long history that goes back to the mid-1800s. They were used for canning and came in numerous colors, including blue, yellow, green, and even pink. Visit this blog to learn the history of the popular Ball Mason Jars and how to date them. 

Thank you to our sponsor, PNC Arts Alive!, for helping to make this video possible!

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