How to Make Upcycled Mason Jar Sea Glass Lanterns

Paint Jars

Using sea glass spray paint (found at most hardware stores), coat recycled jars in an even layer of paint.

Measure and Cut Jute

Begin measuring lengths of jute into six-foot segments and cut. Repeat until you have a total of eight strands of jute measuring six feet each.

Tie the Base Knot

Separate the eight pieces of jute into two sections that contain 4 strands per bunch. Create the foundation for the macrame base by tying the two sections into a lanyard knot (watch the video above for step-by-steps). The remainder of your macrame base will originate from this knot.

Create Macrame Cradle

Taking the four bunches left over from the lanyard knot, separate them into 16 individual pieces. Tie a loop knot with every two pieces of the jute, repeating until the sixteen strands become eight joined strands. Continue this knotting process, moving up the jute strand one inch each round, until you have repeated four times or created a sufficient base for the size of jar you will be using.

Complete the Look

Nestle the jar into the macrame cradle, tying all eight strands together at the top to secure. Hang with an S-hook, add a flameless tea light and voilà! Lantern complete.

Pro Tip: Don’t be discouraged by no-flame rules. Battery-operated tea lights look just as magical as the real thing and provide the perfect amount of ambiance. But if you love the look sans candle, these beauties are equally stunning as hanging planters.