How to Make Garden Party Luminaries

Luminaries, or numerous smaller festive outdoor lights, are becoming increasingly popular at all times of the year. It is believed that the tradition goes back thousands of years to holiday celebrations. Earlier in American history, colored lanterns from China were placed on the ground and lit with candles. The luminary centerpieces described below are an easy way for you to make your garden party truly illuminating.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Leaves and flower petals
• Glass votive holder or jar, one per 6-person table
• Colored tissue paper
• White craft glue
• Water
• Paintbrush
• Tea light candles

1. Buy the number of glass candle jars you need from a local craft store. Collect a variety of small leaves and petals from your garden. The more diversity of colors and shapes, the better the centerpiece will look. Lay your collection between paper, with each piece separate, and place a large book on top to keep them flat. Leave this aside for a couple of hours.

2. Spread glue thinly over the outside of the votive holder where you would like to put your decorations. Be creative. The flowers and leaves can be scattered or shaped into something like a heart or flower. Stick the petals and leaves to the glue and press down into place. Let dry.

3. Mix water and glue together with equal parts to make a paste.

4. Tear tissue paper into pieces of one- to two-inches in size. Vary the colors of the paper, or keep it all the same color.

5. Use the paintbrush to carefully glue the tissue paper pieces. Fill in the empty areas of the outside of your votive jar, blending the paper into your design. Let the jar dry overnight. Put the candle in and place the finished piece in the center of each table. Light up the party right before the guests arrive.