This weekend, my preschooler son asked if we could make Halloween decorations. I invented this easy and fun craft and it went great! Having kept him busy for hours, I can say that Recycled Jar Lanterns are my new go-to kid craft activity.
Materials and instructions:
We found some old jars of various shapes and sizes, then painted them on the outside with regular washable kids paint. After letting the paint dry, we decorated the jars with stickers and craft tape. (I raided the $1 section at Target for Halloween stickers and Halloween-themed craft tape!) We popped fake tea lights in and marveled at our pretty Halloween lanterns.
Illumination:
You can use any jars, as long as the opening is big enough for a candle or tea light. But if you want to use a bottle, you can stick a glow stick in to illuminate it! Just make sure the jar is clean and dry. It’s OK if they are textured or shaped. If you want to preserve these for seasons to come, you can paint over them with a layer of sealant or Mod Podge. There are so many ways to get creative with this idea!
This craft is ideal for preschoolers or grade schoolers.
My 4 1/2 year old was captivated by this project for 2 hours or so, and asked to do it again the next day. Making Recycled Jar Lanterns could also be fun as a birthday party activity and favor. I will be repeating this for each upcoming holiday until he is tired of it!
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