Turn A Glass Jar And Leaves Into A Beautiful Illuminating Statement Decor Piece

As fall descends upon us each year, flip flops and ice coffees are swapped for warm sweaters and pumpkin lattes. At home, once the leaves start falling, it's time to start thinking about the best way to make a statement with your decor. Autumn is about all things cozy, and nothing is cozier than a festive luminary as the long days depart for early evenings. Finding a unique lantern that fits your style and budget is tricky, and one way to get the look you want without overspending is to make it yourself. To make a illuminated statement piece for the cozy season, you'll attach leaves onto a clear jar with Mod Podge, then add an LED candle inside the container. It's that easy!

This DIY project draws on nature's palette as the world changes color around us. You can create your own stunning beacon to welcome the season into your home, and because you'll be using leaves from your yard, the piece will be unique to you. Adding these DIY lights around your house might also help you determine which other fall home decor trends to embrace this year. Check out how to handcraft an illuminating decor piece to start the season off right.

This glass jar craft is appropriate for all DIY experience levels and ages. All you need to get started are some beautiful fall leaves from your yard and a few other materials. Use any jar or other clear container (like a small vase) that you have on-hand. You could also thrift the container, if desired. The LEDs are available in three-packs at Dollar Tree for $1.25, and Mod Podge can be purchased at Michaels for $8. You can also buy faux foliage from Dollar Tree for $1.25 a bundle if you don't want to use fresh leaves.

To begin, gently wash the leaves and press them flat between paper towels underneath a heavy object like a book. Once dry, use Mod Podge to stick them to the glass jar. Apply the Mod Podge, stick on the leaves, and cover them with another layer of Mod Podge. You could apply them either on the inside or outside of the jar. When the adhesive dries clear, set an LED candle inside and enjoy the warm glow as light filters through the fall colors. 

There are many ways to use these illuminated vessels around the house. From fireplace mantles to table centerpieces and even in your children's bedrooms, you can place these anywhere. After all, everyone knows that mason jar lanterns serve as the best Halloween night lights. You could even suspend them in rope hangers if desired. No matter where you choose to display your jar luminaries, the autumn evenings are sure to feel a little cozier.