DIY Outdoor Lanterns for Garden Lighting

As the sun sets and the sky fades to twilight, there’s something magical about a garden softly illuminated by warm, flickering lights. Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée, enjoying a quiet evening under the stars, or simply wanting to make your outdoor space more inviting, outdoor lighting can transform any garden into an enchanting escape.

While there’s no shortage of commercial garden lights, there’s a special joy in creating your own. DIY lanterns not only allow for personal expression and style but are also cost-effective, sustainable, and deeply satisfying to make. From upcycled jars to woven baskets and rustic tin cans, the possibilities for garden crafts are endless.

In this article, we explore creative and practical ways to make your own outdoor lanterns—no matter your skill level or garden size. These handmade lighting ideas bring both function and flair to patios, pathways, balconies, and beyond.

1. Mason Jar Lanterns

A Timeless Garden Favourite

Mason jars are a classic choice for DIY lanterns. Their simple shape, glass clarity, and sturdiness make them ideal for both hanging and tabletop displays.

Materials:

• Mason jars (with or without lids)
• Tea lights or LED candles
• Wire (for handles)
• Decorative elements: sand, pebbles, lace, or paint

How-To:

1. Fill the bottom of the jar with sand, gravel, or glass beads to secure your candle.
2. Wrap wire securely around the neck of the jar, twisting it to form a handle.
3. Add paint or stencilled designs for a personalised touch.
4. Hang from hooks, tree branches, or shepherd’s crooks, or place along paths or tabletops.

Tip: Use solar-powered LED tea lights for safe, energy-efficient lighting.

2. Tin Can Lanterns

Upcycled and Atmospheric

Old tin cans can be repurposed into charming lanterns that cast beautiful patterns when lit. They’re one of the simplest yet most effective garden crafts around.

You’ll Need:

• Clean, label-free tin cans
• Hammer and nail (or drill)
• Tea lights or LED candles
• Wire and paint (optional)

Steps:

1. Fill the can with water and freeze overnight (this helps maintain shape while you work).
2. Draw your design on the outside with a marker.
3. Use a nail and hammer (or drill) to punch holes along the design.
4. Paint or spray with rust-resistant paint.
5. Add a handle or leave freestanding.

Design ideas: Stars, hearts, initials, or simple geometric patterns look fantastic when lit from within.

3. Hanging Basket Lanterns

Rustic Elegance Meets Functionality

Turn small wire hanging baskets into beautiful lanterns that emit soft light and rustic charm.

Materials:

• Wire baskets (round or cone-shaped)
• Fabric, twine, or faux greenery
• Fairy lights or LED candles
• Chain or rope for hanging

Instructions:

1. Line the inside of the basket with fabric or foliage to diffuse light.
2. Place a waterproof LED candle inside or wrap the interior with battery-powered fairy lights.
3. Hang in groups at varying heights for dramatic effect.

Garden styling tip: Choose warm-toned lights for a more natural glow that complements greenery and flowers.

4. Glass Bottle Torch Lanterns

A Stylish Twist on Traditional Torches

If you have empty wine or spirit bottles lying around, give them new life as elegant garden torches.

Materials:

• Empty glass bottles (clear or coloured)
• Tiki torch wicks and fuel (or solar bottle caps)
• Copper fitting or bottle torch kit

Steps:

1. Clean bottles and remove labels.
2. Insert the wick into the fuel canister, then into the bottle neck.
3. Secure with a fitting or stopper to hold the wick steady.
4. Light and enjoy responsibly—or opt for solar-powered alternatives for a flameless version.

Safety tip: Keep open flame torches away from flammable foliage or garden fabrics.

5. Paper Bag Luminarias

Perfect for Parties and Pathways

Create instant ambience with this easy, budget-friendly lantern idea, ideal for temporary displays.

You’ll Need:

• Paper bags (white or coloured)
• Sand or small stones
• Tea lights (battery-operated preferred)

To Make:

1. Open the bags and fold down the tops slightly.
2. Add 2–3 inches of sand to weigh them down.
3. Cut patterns into the bag sides (stars, snowflakes, hearts).
4. Place a tea light inside.

Line garden paths, patio edges, or steps for subtle, romantic lighting.

Note: Use flameless candles to avoid fire hazards.

6. Bamboo or Rattan Lanterns

Boho Chic for Every Garden

If you’re after that earthy, natural aesthetic, try your hand at making bamboo or rattan lanterns—or upcycle old ones with new lights.

What You Need:

• Old rattan baskets, bamboo strips, or pre-made frames
• Twine, glue, or nails
• LED candles or solar string lights

DIY Tip:

Wrap fairy lights inside a basket or build a cage-like frame from bamboo. Add twine or rope handles for hanging or use as freestanding features.

These materials complement garden plants beautifully and create texture in both day and night settings.

7. Terracotta Pot Lanterns

Mediterranean Inspiration with a Twist

Terracotta pots are an often-overlooked material for crafting unique DIY lanterns.

How-To:

1. Invert a terracotta pot over a tea light placed on a saucer.
2. Cut shapes into the sides of the pot using a Dremel tool (optional).
3. Decorate with tile mosaics, stencils, or weather-resistant paint.

When the candle glows beneath, the pot gives off a soft, diffused light—ideal for ambient outdoor lighting during dinners or garden gatherings.

8. Recycled Jar Chandeliers

Clustered Light with Personality

Group multiple jars or small containers to create a statement hanging lantern.

Materials:

• Assorted glass jars (jam, pickle, etc.)
• Rope or chain
• Wooden base (such as a branch or reclaimed beam)
• Battery-operated tea lights or solar jar lids

Assembly:

1. Attach jars securely to cords or rope.
2. Hang from the wooden base at varying lengths.
3. Suspend over a table or garden feature for a show-stopping centrepiece.

This garden craft looks especially lovely when decorated with trailing ivy, fairy lights, or tiny flowers.

Tips for Weatherproofing Your DIY Lanterns

If you plan to keep your creations outdoors long-term, a few extra precautions can ensure durability:

Waterproofing Tips:

• Use outdoor-rated paints and sealants.
• Line or coat paper or fabric with mod podge or weatherproof sprays.
• Opt for solar or battery-powered LED lights designed for outdoor use.
• Store more delicate lanterns indoors during extreme weather.

By thinking ahead, your lanterns can last season after season with minimal maintenance.

Safety Considerations for Outdoor Lighting

While making your own garden lights is fun and fulfilling, it’s important to prioritise safety:

• Always use LED or solar lights when possible to minimise fire risk.
• Keep open flames away from plants, dry leaves, and fabrics.
• Avoid hanging lanterns near low-hanging branches or wind-prone areas.
• Ensure electrical components are outdoor-rated and properly insulated.

Even the most stunning lantern is no good if it compromises safety—plan your placement and materials carefully.

Let Your Garden Shine

With a few humble materials, a dash of creativity, and some thoughtful placement, DIY lanterns can turn your outdoor space into a serene, glowing haven. Whether you’re illuminating a dinner party, guiding the way down a garden path, or simply creating a cosy nook for yourself, garden DIY crafts like these blend style, sustainability, and soul.

Outdoor lighting doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated—it can be handmade, heartfelt, and tailored to your exact taste. So gather your jars, your tools, and your inspiration, and light up your garden with creations that reflect your personal touch.

Take action today: Pick a lantern idea that suits your space and give it a go this weekend. Your garden—and your guests—will thank you.