It’s lowkey hard to believe it’s December already, though I’m definitely not complaining. I’m very much ok with seeing 2021 go, but I’m even more excited about this fun little craft.
I could give you a super long introductory backstory, but I’m not because why? So, let’s get to it.
Before we dive into things, please use this as a guide only. These are versatile enough to truly make your own. Choose your own adventure!
Supplies
- Mason jars (I used 4 – 2 large, 2 small)
- Epsom salt (2 bags)
- Mod Podge
- Medium-sized paintbrush or Styrofoam brush (1)
- Twine
- Small floating candles (1 per jar; you can use nearly any style of candle that fits in the jars you use)
- Alternative: battery operated candles
- Decorative items (this is the choose your own adventure part, use what you like!)
- Large bowl (to catch the Epsom salt as you’re decorating)
- Newspaper, silicone mat, etc. as this can get a bit messy
Optional
- Hot glue gun (depending upon what you use to decorate the jars)
- Small plastic container (it’s easier to pour the Mod Podge into one)
How to make mason jar luminaries
After you’ve fully set up your workspace with all your supplies ready to go…
Step 1
Paint a thin layer of Mod Podge on your mason jar (below the rim, not on the bottom of the jar)
Choose your own adventure: You can either tie the twine on before the Mod Podge application or afterward. I tried both and there wasn’t a difference.
Step 2
Right after you’ve applied the Mod Podge, hold the jar over a large bowl and add the Epsom salt to the outside of the jar. Shake or gently tap off excess.
You can either sprinkle it on by hand, turning the jar as you go or if your bowl is large enough, roll the mason jar in Epsom salt.
Step 3
Add twine to the rim of the jar. I wrapped mine 3-4 times and tied it. Alternatively, feel free to use hot glue to keep it in place. Regardless, make sure to leave long enough pieces after you’ve tied it to secure your decorative items.
If you did this in Step 1, jump to the next step
Step 3
Add your decorative items. Whether or not you simply attach them using the twine or hot glue them to the twine is purely up to you and dependent upon what item(s) you use.
For the wood snowflake: This is a mini ornament, so I used the twine to connect it to the jar.
For the other decorative items I used: TBH I really didn’t feel like using a hot glue gun so took a small piece of floral wire (for wreaths) to attach the bundles together (honestly, hot glue would’ve been better but whatever), and then wrapped one end of the twine around the bundle to secure it.
Step 4
If you want to create that fun snowy look around the rim and/or on your items, grab the Snow-Tex (if not, skip to Step 5)
First, mix it (with a spoon, end of your paint brush, whatever)
Apply it to the rim. I used my finger because I found it to be more precise and easier to apply (it washes off very easily), though you can also use a small paint brush as well. I added it to the snowflake and pine pieces as well.
Give it a few minutes to dry.
Step 5
Pour Epsom salt into the completed jars: Fill it half way.
Alternatively, you can skip adding in Epsom salt and fill with water instead if you are using a floating candle.
Step 6
Add in one floating candle per jar; it will sit on top of the Epsom salt. DO NOT ADD WATER. Epsom salt + water = salt will dissolve.
If you don’t have a wick trimmer, trim the wick before adding it to the jar.
Step 7
Your luminaries are complete!
Recommendations and Safety
- Let them fully dry for a few hours or overnight before use.
- For proper candle safety, NEVER leave the candle(s) unattended. Also, do not let them burn or remain on for extended periods of time.
- Be mindful of small components and the Epsom salt if you have pets and/or kids
- Bonus tip: to store these post-holiday, I highly recommend removing the candles and carefully wrap each luminaree individually with a few layers of cling wrap. Follow this with some type of paper to protect the glass from breaking. This will help preserve the Epsom salt and decor and if you use scented Epsom salt, preserve the fragrance.
To see the full video of me creating these luminaries step-by-step, check out the corresponding Instagram post.
Happy Crafting!
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