How to Make Fall Mason Jar Lanterns

Learn how to make fall mason jar lanterns with pressed autumn leaves to transform a traditional glass bottle into a luminous vessel in this simple craft.

When Colorado wilderness guide Mary Marsden found a large empty glass bottle in a restaurant’s Dumpster, she saw it was filled with potential. She covered it with pressed autumn leaves, a layer or two of tissue paper, and filled it with a string of lights to create this luminous vessel. The diversity of leaf shapes guarantees a beautiful composition, and the warm autumnal tones create a glow that will light up any room.

1. Collect a variety of leaves in interesting shapes and colors. Autumn leaves are lovely, but you can also use dried flowers or dried herbs. Try branches of basil, tarragon or lavender. Pressed leaves are also available to buy at some florists. Press the leaves between sheets of tissue paper within a heavy book or flower press and leave for a couple weeks.
   
2. Tear tissue paper into matchbox-size pieces. Have enough to cover the entire bottle in two layers.