Remember when paper lanterns were the big craze? It seems like everyone had one in every color and they were cheap and easy to hang around the dorm or apartment. But after a year, they’d get torn, ripped or faded and it was time to pitch them. So we had an idea to use something that won’t tear or fade from regular use: Mason Jars.

You’ve probably noticed the trend that has emerged over that past few years. Mason jars now have a plethora of uses and aren’t just limited to canning anymore. Whether these are lighting inside or outside, they’re sure to add some flair to what would otherwise be a typical light fixture!

GETTING STARTED

To get started place the light socket on top of the metal lid and center it. Using a permanent marker trace a circle on the metal around the socket. After drawing the circle, use a hammer and nail to make holes just on the inside of the marked circle until you get all the way around. Then using the hammer and a flat-head screwdriver, drive out the gaps in between the holes until the center falls into the jar.

SECURING THE LIGHT TO THE METAL LID

After cutting the hole, unscrewed the cap and wedged the light socket into the metal. In some cases, the socket fit so tightly into the lid that you have to use glue or tape to hold it in place. If you have to use an adhesive, make sure it can withstand the heat from the light bulb.

OPTIONAL: PAINTING THE LIGHT

To help your new light better match the color scheme it’s surroundings, consider spray painting the light fixture and the lid. Simply tape off the cord, bring your fixture outside, and spray! Make sure to shake the can regularly and apply from a distance of 6-8 inches. Remember that it’s better to apply 2-3 thin coats than 1 thick coat. Make sure the paint is completely dry in between coats, with a day (24 hours) to dry after each one!

ASSEMBLE IT ALL

Here comes the tricky part. Take the top of the mason jar and screw it back onto the jar itself. If you manage to complete this step then congratulations! You now have a mason jar light! It should only take about a half hour to do start to finish (including time for a snack break) unless you spray painted, in which case it should be ready to go in 2 days.