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How to Make Glass Jar Luminaries

Contributor
By Carole Vansickle
eHow Contributing Writer
(8 Ratings)
Luminaries are a longstanding and beautiful tradition for many families at Christmas
Luminaries are a longstanding and beautiful tradition for many families at Christmas

You can make sweet, simple luminaries to celebrate any occasion using glass jars. These luminaries are far safer than traditional luminaries, which are often made of paper bags filled with sand, because their flames are entirely contained and they are far sturdier than the traditional models. Use these luminaries to light the way to your door for a fancy entrance during a party or just to set the mood on your porch on fall and winter evenings.

From Quick Guide: How to Make Luminaries
Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Glass jars with lids (canning jars work best)
  • Hammer
  • Nail
  • Votive candles
  • Colored ribbon (optional)
  • Long lighter
  1. Step 1

    Remove all the thin pieces from the tops of the glass jars. You will need them later so do not throw them away.

  2. Step 2
    The holes will shine in the dark when you light the candles and make a pretty pattern on top of the luminary as well as allowing light out of the sides. It works in much the same way that these ceramic tea lights do.
    The holes will shine in the dark when you light the candles and make a pretty pattern on top of the luminary as well as allowing light out of the sides. It works in much the same way that these ceramic tea lights do.

    Using the hammer and nail, pound at least ten holes into each thin piece of metal. These holes need to go all the way through the lid so that you candles will get enough air to burn. You can make the holes randomly if you wish, but they will be particularly pretty if you make simple patterns such as stars, trees or circles.

  3. Step 3

    Place a votive candle in each glass jar. If you are about to use the luminaries, then go ahead and light the candle.

  4. Step 4

    Screw on the lid. This will protect your lawn or other areas from the flame should the luminary accidentally be knocked over. You can safely set these glass jar luminaries anywhere and they will gleam like crystals in the darkness.

  5. Step 5
    Some people also add small bells or sprigs of holly or mistletoe to the ribbon for a more festive look
    Some people also add small bells or sprigs of holly or mistletoe to the ribbon for a more festive look

    Tie a small bow around the top of the luminary. This makes them a little easier to see during the day when they are not lit if you leave them out for the entire holiday season.

Tips & Warnings
  • Some people like to place a small amount of sand in the bottom of the jars to weight them down and make them even more sturdy.
  • Anytime you are dealing with fire, make sure that you have the means to halt the spread of flames quickly and that everyone understands proper fire safety behavior.

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