Glowing Jack-o'-Lantern Mason Jars
Make a cluster of glowing jack-o'-lantern lanterns from mason jars and paint — a safe, flameless Halloween centrepiece that kids can help with.
Materials
- Mason jars (assorted sizes) (5–6)
- Orange & black glass paint (1 each)
- Battery tea lights (5–6)
Tools
- Paint brushes (2)
- Stencils (optional) (1 set)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Clean the Jars
Wash and dry clean mason jars. Remove any labels so the glass is clear.
Paint the Base Colour
Paint the outside of each jar with orange glass paint (or leave clear for ghost jars painted white).
Add the Faces
Once dry, paint classic jack-o'-lantern faces — triangle eyes and a jagged grin — in black. Tape a stencil on first if you want them neat.
Seal & Dry
Leave the jars to dry completely, ideally overnight, so the light won't smudge the paint.
Drop in the Light
Place a battery tea light or a few fairy lights inside each jar so the faces glow.
Group & Display
Cluster jars of different sizes along a table, windowsill or path edge for maximum spooky glow after dark.
Safety Notes
Use battery tea lights, never real candles, inside sealed jars. Let paint dry fully before adding lights.
Waste & Recycling Tips
Wash the paint off with warm water afterwards and the jars go straight back to everyday use, or repaint next year.