Transform Old Mason Jars Into A Unique Light-Up Centerpiece With A Whimsy Twist

When we think of dressing up a table, our mind often jumps to flowers, placemats, napkins, and a few candle holders here and there. These can (rightfully so) elevate a tablescape. But what if we told you that those old Mason jars lying around in your cupboard can make your setup stand out even further? Turn them into hanging lanterns above the table for an unexpected dose of whimsy.

No doubt, this is another DIY Mason jar centerpiece that will wow your guests, but the best part, it's easy to recreate. All you need are a handful of Mason jars, votive candles, long ropes, and a sturdy over-the-table stand to hold it all together. This décor hack doesn't hog up table space, which is a common problem with other types of centerpieces. At the same time, it can serve as a fun tablescape idea for every occasion, be it a Christmas dinner party or candlelit date night. Oh, and did we mention it can be displayed both indoors and out?

The first step is to have your tabletop stand ready. You could follow the lead of creator Leslie Saeta of the blog and Instagram "My 100 Year Old Home" and build your own from wooden boards if you have a knack for DIY. She created a trough-like box to keep the two vertical boards upright, though you can also use heavy-duty C-clamps to secure them to the table. Alternatively, you can take the easier route and purchase a pre-made frame, such as the Hopesun Over-The-Table Adjustable Rod Stand for about $30.

Next up is prepping the Mason jars. Clean them thoroughly, then tie a strong knot around the neck of each jar. While jute twine gives the centerpiece a rustic feel, it's not the only option. We love the idea of using colorful ribbons (in yellow, blue, or pink, for example) to decorate the dining table in a playful way. Once that's done, add in the candles. Maybe you'd like to include pebbles at the bottom of each jar to keep the lights in place. Or, perhaps you might prefer battery-powered ones for better safety. The beauty of this DIY is that you can always switch things up, depending on your preference and the occasion. Lastly, secure the Mason jars to the tabletop stand. You can just tie the loose ends around the rod on top — or in Saeta's case, around the thicker rope.