Ingredients
- 1 smooth glass jar, about 3.5 inches wide and 5 inches tall, with the lid removed
- 12 to 18 pressed flowers and small leaves, each about 1/2 inch to 2 inches wide
- 4 fluid ounces of water-based decoupage adhesive (a matte finish is a gentle choice)
- 1 small battery-operated LED tea light, about 1.5 inches wide
- 1 foam brush, 1 inch wide
- 1 small soft paintbrush, about 1/2 inch wide, for pressing flower edges
- 1 pair of fine-tip tweezers, about 4 inches long
- 1 sheet of white tissue paper, about 12 inches by 18 inches
- 1 plastic or silicone mixing cup, at least 6 fluid ounces
- 1 disposable wooden craft stick, about 6 inches long, for stirring adhesive
- 1 drop cloth or sheet of kraft paper, at least 24 inches by 36 inches
- 1 pair of nitrile or household gloves, optional
- 1 clean cotton cloth, about 12 inches square, for wiping the glass
- 1 bottle of glass cleaner, about 8 fluid ounces, or 1 tablespoon of white vinegar mixed with 1 cup of water
Instructions
- Cover your table with a drop cloth or sheet of kraft paper to keep adhesive drips from becoming a mess.
- Clean the glass jar with warm water and dish soap, then dry it completely. Wipe the outside with glass cleaner or vinegar solution to remove fingerprints.
- Lay the pressed flowers on the sheet of tissue paper beside the jar to plan the arrangement. Leave clear spaces for LED light to shine through.
- Pour 2 fluid ounces of decoupage adhesive into a mixing cup and stir with a craft stick until smooth.
- Use the 1-inch foam brush to spread a thin coat of adhesive over a 3-inch wide section of the jar.
- Using tweezers or fingertips, place each pressed flower onto the wet adhesive and press down with the soft paintbrush.
- Continue placing flowers around the jar until you have used 12 to 18 flowers.
- Let the first layer dry for 1 to 2 hours.
- If necessary, fix any small mistakes within the drying time.
- Brush on the sealing coat using the remaining 2 fluid ounces of adhesive over the flowers and surrounding glass.
- Let the sealing coat dry for another 1 to 2 hours until the finish appears clear.
- Allow the lantern to cure undisturbed for a full 24 hours.
- Once cured, place the LED tea light inside the jar and turn it on.
Notes
Use only a battery-operated LED tea light due to fire risks. Keep the lantern away from heat sources and direct sunlight. It's suitable for beginners, allowing for imperfections in the flower arrangement.
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
