Whether you're feeling creative, or looking for a Valentine's Day gift on a budget this year, this cute homemade lantern will make an adorable addition to your home. Surprise your spouse with a thoughtful handmade gift that will sit pretty in your living room all year round. What's more, it couldn't be simpler to create!

Read more for detailed instructions and images on how to make your own glass lantern.

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How to Make a Valentine's Lantern

This lantern jar has a real vintage feel, and should fill your room with mood lighting, making for a very romantic Valentine's evening. Why not make a few and dot them about the place for a really chilled, homely ambience?

Equipment and Materials You'll Need…

  • Glass jar (An old jam or mayonnaise jar would work well for this)
  • Two pages from an old novel (Alternatively, you can use newspaper clippings)
  • Glue stick
  • Scissors
  • Twine / ribbon
  • LED tealight candle
1

Place your pages inside your jar, and trim off any excess so they fit inside the glass snugly

Use a pencil and ruler to ensure that your edges are straight.

Place your pages inside your jar, and trim off any excess so they fit inside the glass snugly
2

Draw a heart in the center of each page and cut it out

You should try to ensure that each heart is in exactly the same spot. We recommend placing the two pages on top of each other when you draw your first heart, so you'll be able to see the outline faintly on the second page.

Draw a heart in the center of each page and cut it out
3

Stick your pages around the inside of your jar

We recommend using a glue stick for a more discreet finish, although you may need to use glue dots to stop the corners peeling away from the jar.

Stick your pages around the inside of your jar
4

Tie your ribbon / twine around the top of your jar in a bow

We've used ribbon to make it look brighter and more eye-catching, however twine can look more homely and rustic.

Tie your ribbon / twine around the top of your jar in a bow
5

Turn your LED candle on and place inside the jar

We strongly recommend using a fake candle instead of a real one, as the paper on the inside of the jar could be a fire hazard.

Turn your LED candle on and place inside the jar
6

You could also use fairy lights or coloured paper to change the effect

Feel free to experiment with different materials or light sources for a brighter, more colourful effect.

You could also use fairy lights or coloured paper to change the effect