How to Make Angel Luminaries

This easy-to-make twist on traditional paper holiday luminaries will give your home an angelic glow.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Dark Blue Paper Bags
• Measuring Tapes
• Sand
• Votive Candles
• Angel Cookie Cutter
• Measuring Cups
• 2 8 1/2-by-11-inch Sheets Poster Boards
• Ink Pen
• Lighters
• X-Acto Knives

1. Determine where you want to place your luminaries, remembering that they're most often used to line driveways or walkways.
2. Measure the length of the area and multiply by 2, as you'll need luminaries on both sides of the path.
3. Determine how many dark blue, lunch bag-size bags you'll need, and purchase them. (Luminaries are usually spaced between 6 inches and 2 feet apart. The bags are available at most craft and paper stores, and range in price from about 15 cents to 35 cents each.)
4. Purchase a small votive candle for each bag, as well as enough sand to weigh the bags down. (Each bag should have about a 2-inch base of sand ' about 2 cups for lunch-size bags.)
5. Trace the shape of an angel using an angel cookie cutter onto poster board; cut out the shape to make a stencil.
6. Trace and cut the angel shape out of each bag using an X-Acto knife or utility blade. (Make sure to use a piece of poster board, cardboard or foam board under the bag to protect the surface of the table or countertop while you're cutting.)
7. Fill each bag with about 2 cups of sand and line the bags along the pathway.
8. Twist a votive candle into the sand in the middle of the bag, making sure that it's secure.
9. As dusk falls, light each candle for an angelic holiday glow.

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Tips & Warnings

• Some craft experts recommend placing the candles in glass holders inside the bags, although this isn't necessary.
• Burning approximately 4 hours each evening, each votive candle will last about four days.
• Regular brown lunch bags can be spray painted dark blue if you can't find colored bags at your craft or paper store.
• Some craft stores sell plastic and ceramic luminaries, if you're looking for something a little more permanent.
• Practice fire safety. Don't place luminaries in areas where they could spread fire if accidentally knocked over.
• Luminaries are best used in dry areas of the country. Exposure to snow or rain will destroy the bags.