Hanukkah comes at the coldest, darkest part of the year. From the seasonal timing to the story of the Maccabees’ perseverance and the miracle of light itself, it’s undeniable that light is a recurring theme that just so happens to be easily accessible to children of all ages. This fun lantern craft for kids is an easy way to add a little extra brightness to your holiday décor. Looking for another craft too? Try this DIY menorah.
Supplies needed:
- Clean, dry mason jar
- Colored Mod Podge (store-bought or homemade)
- Tissue paper (I used pre-cut squares)
- Puffy paint
- Electric or regular tea light candle
For homemade mod podge:
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cup
- Mixing spoon
- White school glue (like Elmer’s)
- Liquid watercolor (have your child pick their favorite color!)
- Clear nail polish (or clear liquid varnish)
Directions:
- To make the mod podge, mix one cup glue, one cup cold water, one tablespoon clear nail polish (or varnish), and a few big drops of liquid water color. Mix well.
- Apply a thin, even layer to the outside of the mason jar. Layer the damp mod podge with tissue paper. We used pre-cut squares and folded some into triangles to make Jewish stars. Leave parts of the jar undecorated to get some contrast once you insert the tea light.
- Carefully paint the edges of all the tissue paper with mod podge to ensure they are adhered and flush to the jar, smoothing out any air bubbles as you go. Add a final full layer of mod podge over all the tissue paper.
- Allow to dry for at least one hour, and then use puffy paint to add details to the design.
- Drop in a candle and light up your Hanukkah night!
Special thanks to my project testers, Ele Horion and Lilly Gardner, pictured below!
