Easily Create A Gorgeous Lantern With A Few Simple Items From The Dollar Tree

If you're looking for a way to add fun lighting to your rooms, you may have already started your search online. However, you could DIY a gorgeous lantern yourself, as shown by @hometalk on TikTok, which is perfect if you're looking to add a touch of decor to your space at the same time. You can hang these or place them on a table or countertop to create a unique look, and it would even be suitable for a playroom. Likewise, if you have a creative side, this project is perfect for fun or even getting your kids involved, as it includes plenty of crafting.

As all the items are from Dollar Tree, it's also a good option if you're on a budget and don't want to invest in anything too expensive. All you'll need is some Tumbling Tower Games Jenga blocks from the Dollar Tree, some Floral Garden Cotton Nautical Rope, some white tea candles (all costing $1.25 each), and a hot glue gun. Make sure that you also grab some cardboard and scissors.

First, you'll want to empty your blocks onto your table (or wherever you're building this project) and start heating your hot glue gun. Take three blocks and glue them together horizontally before gluing four on top vertically with equal spacing between them. Repeat this another three times, or more if you wish, depending on how tall you want your lantern to be. With one side complete, build three more sections until you're left with four in total. Next, create your "lantern" part, gluing all four pieces together to mimic the shape and allow it time to dry. You should also insert a Jenga piece into each corner at the bottom, alongside a square piece of cardboard underneath.

Once everything is set and dry, you'll want to add your rope, tying it around each end of one side to create a handle and repeat on the opposite side. Now, all that's left to do is add your lighting and insert your tea lights, which will mimic the effect of a candle. Of course, you should check the work before doing so. As a result, you should be left with stylish statement lighting that you can place or hang anywhere, such as a bedroom or your coffee table. 

If you really want to create an "iron" effect, then a great way to do so is to spray paint or paint the entire thing gray. Of course, you can choose any other color you want, but just make sure you do this outdoors so you won't inhale any of the product. For a more "regal" look, consider going gold. You could even go as far as to add some adhesive square mirror pieces or cover it in sequins or glitter — it all depends on the style you want to achieve. When it comes to the lights, add some taller candles or swap them out for fairy lights, often available at home goods stores or online for an inexpensive price. You could paint the rope or make your own out of colored twine to add a fun "pop."

This hack works so well because the Jenga blocks are the perfect shape to create a "caged" look, similar to an old lantern. Of course, that doesn't stop you from playing around and creating other shapes with the blocks if you wish to do so. Altogether, using only the Dollar Tree items should cost you no more than $3.75, which is the total price per lantern. With very little initial investment, you have a unique DIY lighting feature that you can show off anywhere around your home.