Transforming your garden into a magical oasis is easier than you think. One of the best ways to add charm and ambiance to your outdoor space is with garden lanterns.
Whether you prefer a rustic, vintage, or modern look, here are 22 DIY garden lantern ideas that will light up your garden beautifully.
1. Rustic Mason Jar Lanterns
Mason jars are a DIY favorite. Fill them with fairy lights or candles, and hang them from tree branches with twine or wire for a charming, rustic look.
2. Tin Can Lanterns
Recycle old tin cans by punching holes in them to create patterns or designs. Paint them in vibrant colors, add a candle inside, and hang them around your garden for a whimsical touch.
3. Wine Bottle Torches
Repurpose wine bottles into torches by adding a wick and citronella oil. Mount them on a fence or place them on tables to keep the bugs away while adding a stylish light source.
4. Paper Bag Luminaries
For a simple and budget-friendly option, use paper bags to create luminaries. Cut out patterns, fill the bags with sand, and place a tea light inside. These look great lining a garden path.
5. Solar-Powered Lanterns
Transform regular lanterns into solar-powered ones by adding solar lights. This eco-friendly option is perfect for gardens and requires no electricity.
6. Rope Wrapped Lanterns
Wrap glass jars or lanterns with rope for a nautical or rustic theme. Add a candle or fairy lights inside and place them on tables or hang them around your garden.
7. Bamboo Lanterns
Use bamboo sticks to create a lantern frame. Wrap the frame with rice paper or fabric and place a light source inside. These lanterns add an exotic and natural feel to your garden.
8. Terracotta Pot Lanterns
Turn terracotta pots upside down and place a candle underneath for a unique garden lantern. Paint the pots in bright colors or patterns to match your garden decor.
9. Hanging Glass Bottle Lanterns
Cut the bottoms off glass bottles and place a candle inside. Hang them from tree branches or pergolas using wire or sturdy string. These lanterns create a beautiful, ambient glow.
10. Embroidery Hoop Lanterns
Create lanterns using embroidery hoops and fabric. Attach the fabric to the hoops, forming a cylinder, and place a light source inside. These lanterns can be hung or placed on tables for a soft, diffused light.
11. Clay Pot Luminaries
Decorate small clay pots with paint or decoupage and place candles inside. These luminaries are perfect for scattering around your garden or placing on tables.
12. Upcycled Chandelier Lanterns
Repurpose an old chandelier by painting it and adding candles or solar lights. Hang it from a tree or pergola for a dramatic and elegant garden feature.
13. Lanterns Made from Wire Baskets
Use wire baskets to create lanterns by placing a candle or fairy lights inside. Hang them from trees or place them on the ground for an industrial, chic look.
14. Seashell Lanterns
Glue seashells around the outside of glass jars or lanterns. Place a candle inside to create a beachy, coastal vibe in your garden.
15. Wooden Lanterns
Build simple wooden frames and place glass jars or candles inside. These sturdy lanterns can be painted or stained to match your garden decor.
16. Lace Doily Lanterns
Cover glass jars with lace doilies and place a candle inside. The lace creates beautiful patterns of light and shadow, adding a romantic touch to your garden.
17. Lanterns from Recycled Plastic Bottles
Cut the tops off plastic bottles, paint them, and add a candle inside. These lanterns are an eco-friendly way to add light to your garden.
18. Log Lanterns
Hollow out small logs and place candles or fairy lights inside. These natural lanterns blend beautifully with garden surroundings and add a rustic charm.
20. Vintage Lanterns
Use vintage teacups and saucers to create charming lanterns. Place a candle in the teacup and display them on tables or hang them with wire for a whimsical garden feature.
21. Beaded Lanterns
Decorate lanterns with beads to add color and sparkle. String beads on wire and wrap them around glass jars or lantern frames for a bohemian touch.
22. Pinecone Lanterns
Glue pinecones around glass jars and place candles inside. These lanterns bring a touch of nature into your garden and are perfect for autumn evenings.
