How to Make Big Snowflake Hanging Luminaries

Recycle glass jars and turn them into luminaries.

Luminaries line pathways during festivals. For a winter decoration, use large glass jars with snowflake designs. The jars need to be similar in size and shape but not necessarily be exactly alike. Make these luminaries at least a day before your event to give them plenty of time to dry. Supplies for this project are available at many craft and hobby stores.

Things You'll Need

• Assortment of clean glass jars
• Paper snowflakes
• White glue and water
• Paint brush
• 20-gauge wire in copper or silver
• Wire cutters
• Needlenose pliers
• Candles

Instructions

1. Mix glue with water so that the glue is thinned out, making it easier to spread onto the jar.

2. Paint a thin layer of the glue mixture on a jar where you want to place a snowflake. Place the paper snowflake on the wet glue. Use the paintbrush to smooth out the paper and ensure it is embedded in the glue.

3. Dip the brush into the glue mixture again and spread a thin layer over the snowflake that you just applied to the glass. Take special care with covering the edges, otherwise, they may peel off later.

4. Once the jar is decorated the way you want it, set it to the side and let it dry. Repeat the above steps for your remaining jars.

5. Cut a piece of wire that's long enough to wrap around the neck of the jar. This piece of wire needs to be tight enough not to slip off the jar but loose enough to allow another piece of wire to fit under it. Wrap the wire around the neck of the jar and use the pliers to twist the ends together and secure the wire.

6. Cut a length of wire that's long enough to use as a hanger. Usually 12 inches is adequate. Take one end of the wire and slip it under the wire around the neck of the jar. Wrap it around the neck wire, forming a loop. Twist the end around with pliers so that it will not slip off. Repeat this process on the opposite side of the jar with the free end of the wire.

7. Place a candle in the luminary and light it. Hang the luminaries as desired.

Tips & Warnings

• Add embellishments to the luminaries by gluing on crystals or glitter.

• Use sand, glass beads or rice to hold candles in place.

• To avoid possible fire hazards, use battery-operated candles in place of traditional ones.

References

• Crafts For All Seasons: Baby Jar Candle Holder
• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources: Ice Luminary
• Storm Copper Components: Copper Foil Luminaries