Crafts ·
Minilights ·
Mason Jar Crafts with Battery Operated Lights
It’s a balmy 82 degrees here in Texas today — a big contrast to the 45–50° weather we had a couple weeks ago — so I decided it was time to head outside, decorate the yard, and have a party.
This is one of my favorite “big impact / low effort” projects: battery lights tucked inside jars to add sparkle anywhere.
Materials List
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Jars or containers you love
Mason jars are an easy starting point (with or without lids). Craft stores also have candleholders and hanging jars that work beautifully. -
Battery-operated LED lights
I use LED battery lights for parties because they’re bright, easy, and flexible — no cords to trip over. -
Batteries
Most sets don’t include batteries. Use fresh batteries from a store with good turnover for best brightness and runtime. -
Hanging hardware (optional)
Hooks, wire, ribbon, zip ties, or brackets if you want to hang jars from a fence, pergola, or tree branch. -
Double-sided tape (optional)
If you’re detail-oriented, use strong tape to secure the battery box to a lid (when the lid is large enough).
Tip: I’ll add the product links for you in this list — it keeps things clean and easy to update later.
My Favorite Battery Lights for Jar Projects
1) Fairy battery lights (my #1 choice)
These are wonderful because the thin wire holds its shape. With one set of three AA batteries (sold separately), they can last over 100 hours.
These are wonderful because the thin wire holds its shape. With one set of three AA batteries (sold separately), they can last over 100 hours.
2) Traditional “larger lens” battery lights
These have more traditional wiring and typically run 18–24 hours per set of three AA batteries. The spacing between bulbs gives the light a little more separation inside the jar.
These have more traditional wiring and typically run 18–24 hours per set of three AA batteries. The spacing between bulbs gives the light a little more separation inside the jar.
How to Make Mason Jar Party Lights
Step 1: Choose your jars.
Start with Mason jars from a big box store, or browse craft stores for candleholders and hanging jars. Watch for sales — I found lots of options at 40–50% off.
Start with Mason jars from a big box store, or browse craft stores for candleholders and hanging jars. Watch for sales — I found lots of options at 40–50% off.
Step 2: Grab your battery lights.
You can find them locally or order online — and it never hurts to grab an extra set or two… because you might go a little wild once you see how fun this is.
You can find them locally or order online — and it never hurts to grab an extra set or two… because you might go a little wild once you see how fun this is.
Step 3: Install fresh batteries.
Check whether your set uses AA or C batteries. Fresh batteries = better brightness and longer runtime.
Check whether your set uses AA or C batteries. Fresh batteries = better brightness and longer runtime.
Step 4: Add the lights to the jars.
For evening parties, don’t stress about hiding the battery box — in the dark, people won’t notice it nearly as much as you think. If you want a cleaner look and your lid allows it, use strong double-sided tape to attach the battery box to the lid.
For evening parties, don’t stress about hiding the battery box — in the dark, people won’t notice it nearly as much as you think. If you want a cleaner look and your lid allows it, use strong double-sided tape to attach the battery box to the lid.
Step 5: Place or hang your jars.
Nestle jars along flower beds, on patio tables, or anywhere you want a soft glow. If you want to hang them, plan your hanger: bend wire around the jar, use ribbon loops, or choose jars that already come with built-in hangers.
Nestle jars along flower beds, on patio tables, or anywhere you want a soft glow. If you want to hang them, plan your hanger: bend wire around the jar, use ribbon loops, or choose jars that already come with built-in hangers.
Step 6: Decorate for your party.
Have fun and do a few surprising things to delight your guests — lit jars add sparkle to every celebration.
Have fun and do a few surprising things to delight your guests — lit jars add sparkle to every celebration.
Styling Tips
- Mix jar colors and sizes for a collected, layered look.
- Warm white feels cozy and intimate; multicolor feels playful and festive.
- Stagger hanging heights to create movement and dimension.
- Add sand, glass beads, or greenery to the bottom for extra weight and texture.
Safety Notes
- Test tape, hooks, and hanging methods in an inconspicuous spot first.
- Avoid hanging jars where they can swing freely in high wind.
- Use LED battery lights for enclosed jars to minimize heat.
- Bring jars in during severe weather or long periods of rain.
- Place jars where guests won’t trip — especially around walkways and steps.
“Take a look at how these wonderful lit jars add sparkle to every celebration.” — Shellie at Christmas Light Source
Pin this for later!
Save this idea so it’s ready when you’re planning your next party or backyard gathering.
