Create hanging lanterns for the holidays with this simple, festive DIY guide.
Over the years I’ve made plenty of non-traditional holiday projects because I love experimenting with ideas. Still, there’s something special about putting your own touch on a classic craft.
This project is exactly that: a classic mason-jar lantern updated with a few playful details. I turned mason jars into hanging holiday lanterns with polka-dot patterns, added heavy-duty yarn for hanging, and used tiny battery-powered lights so the jars glow like tiny jars full of fireflies — a happy surprise when the lights come on.
The result is perfect for outdoor entertaining during the holidays, and it’s easy enough to adapt for year-round use. Below you’ll find the materials list and step-by-step instructions, plus ideas for displaying the lanterns indoors and out.
Materials for DIY Hanging Holiday Lanterns
- Mason jars in two to three different sizes
- Heavy-duty yarn or twine
- 3/4″ or 1″ circle stickers (for the polka-dot pattern)
- Spray paint in your chosen color(s)
- Battery-powered LED string lights (small fairy lights)
- Optional: tree trimmings, floral wire, or greenery for additional decoration
Mason jars are widely available and inexpensive — choose a mix of sizes for visual interest. The variety makes clustered displays feel effortless and charming.
Instructions for DIY Hanging Holiday Lanterns
1. Apply the stickers
Place circle stickers on the outside of each jar in whatever pattern you like. Press each sticker firmly so there are no gaps between the sticker edge and the glass.
2. Spray paint the jars
Remove the jar lids, then spray paint the jars in a well-ventilated area. Lay down newspaper or a drop cloth and paint the jars upside down. Apply one or two even coats so the finish is smooth.
3. Let paint dry and remove stickers
After the paint is fully dry, peel off the circle stickers to reveal the polka-dot pattern. If any sticker residue or edges remain, a sharp craft blade helps to lift them cleanly.
4. Attach the hanging cord
Cut two long lengths of yarn or twine. Tuck them under the jar lip (the rim where the lid screws on), wrap them around, and triple-knot securely so the jar hangs evenly. Make sure the knots are tight and test weight-bearing before hanging.
5. Add the lights
Place a small strand of battery-powered LED lights inside each jar and tuck the battery pack under the lid or behind greenery. Close the jar so the lights stay in place.
6. Add festive details (optional)
For extra holiday flair, wrap small bundles of evergreen or other trimmings around the jar mouth and secure them with floral wire. You can also add ornaments, ribbon, or fresh flowers for a seasonal touch.
7. Hang and display
Hang the lanterns from tree branches, porch rafters, hooks, or along a pergola. They look best when hung at varying heights and grouped in clusters. They also work beautifully indoors when hung from stair spindles, doorknobs, or displayed as tabletop lanterns without the hanging cord.
Can these lanterns be used year-round?
Yes. When the holidays end, remove the seasonal greenery and ornaments and keep the polka-dot jars as ambient lighting for any season. The jars are versatile and work for summer parties, autumn evenings, or cozy indoor lighting.
No trees to hang from — other display ideas?
If you don’t have trees, there are lots of ways to use these lanterns:
- Hang them from a fireplace mantel — secure them well so they can’t fall.
- Attach them to door knobs for a welcoming accent, indoors or out.
- Drape them along a staircase banister mixed with garland.
- Skip the hanging cord and cluster jars on a coffee table or dining table as a centerpiece.
- Place them on front steps or a porch to greet visitors in festive style.
Model: Cori Maass
Photography and styling: Brittni Mehlhoff
Are you ready for the holidays?
These lanterns are quick to make and flexible enough for many outdoor or indoor holiday uses. Do you have any seasonal plans where hanging lanterns would add a little extra charm?