2 Easy Ways to Upcycle Glass Jars into DIY Candle Lanterns

I love taking something I already have around the house and giving it a little new life. These two jars started out plain and simple, but with a bit of gallery glass paint, a few butterfly stickers, and some gems, they turned into the sweetest little candle holders. They’re soft, colorful, and full of that handmade charm — the kind of gift that feels personal and thoughtful without being tied to any specific occasion. I used battery‑operated candles inside each jar, which gives them a warm, cozy glow while keeping things safe and easy. They’re perfect for gifting or adding a gentle touch of light to your own space.

Video tutorial coming soon...

Sometimes the smallest projects bring the softest kind of joy. In today’s quick video, I’m sharing how I decorated a few glass candle holders using paint, stickers, and little gem accents. It’s an easy, calming DIY that adds a warm glow to any corner of your home. I hope it inspires you to create something simple and beautiful for your own space.

Materials I Used

• Glass jars (any size you have on hand)
• Gallery Glass paint
• Butterfly stickers
• Gem trim or loose gems
• Adhesive or sealant (optional)
• Battery‑operated candles
• Heat tool or time for drying

Painting the Floral Jar

I started with the smaller jar and added simple stems and tiny flowers using black gallery glass paint. 

Once the outlines were settled, I filled in the leaves and petals with soft colors. It’s such a calming process — the paint slowly levels out and dries into a pretty stained‑glass look. You can keep the design delicate and minimal, or add more color if you’re in the mood.

A Little Note About Drying Time

Gallery Glass paint has its own recommended drying time, and ideally, you want to let each layer settle and dry naturally. It helps the paint level out beautifully and gives you that soft, stained‑glass look.

For the sake of filming and keeping the process moving, I used a small heating tool to speed things along. If you choose to do the same, just use a light hand and keep the heat moving so the paint doesn’t bubble. Otherwise, letting the jars dry on their own works perfectly — it just takes a bit more patience.

Decorating the Butterfly Jar

For the larger jar, I wanted something a little whimsical. I added a touch of white stained‑glass paint for a frosted look, then placed butterfly stickers around the jar. A bit of gem trim along the top added a gentle sparkle. This jar comes together quickly, and the butterflies look so sweet when the candlelight shines through.

A Little Light to Brighten the Space

Both jars hold battery‑operated candles, which emit a warm, peaceful glow without a flame. They’re great for gifting, especially if you’re giving them to someone with kids, pets, or a space where real candles aren’t ideal.

These little jars make lovely gifts for birthdays, thank‑yous, housewarmings, or just because. They’re simple, relaxing to make, and easy to personalize with colors and designs that feel right to you. I hope this inspires you to slow down for a moment and create something beautiful with what you already have at home.