Your light (or a mini pendant light kit, if you’re using one)
Nail
Light bulb
Elegant and vintage-looking, mason jar lights are a fabulous way to brighten up your space and add a hefty dose of style to your home. Whether you’re looking to illuminate your backyard, prettify your patio, or update the aesthetic of your dining room or kitchen (hello, farmhouse-chic), these lights are sure to bring joy and warmth.
Want to learn how to create a magical, glowing set of mason jar pendant lights? Here’s how to make your own mason jar lighting, right down to everything you’ll need to complete the project.
Clean Your Mason Jar
Photo: myboys.me / Adobe Stock
The first step of your DIY outdoor lighting journey is to ensure that you’re working with a clean mason jar. Thoroughly wash it using soap and water, then let it dry completely before working on it.
Remove the Light Bulb
If you’re using an old light fixture, remove the light bulb from your light. Unscrew the socket ring and remove the sconce.
Trace the Socket Ring on the Lid
Remove the lid from your mason jar. Trace the outline of the socket ring on the lid using a permanent marker or pen. This is where you’ll drill your hole.
Make the Hole
Next, drill a pilot hole into the center of the ring. Use tin snips to cut out the ring. (Alternatively, you could punch holes along the inside edge of the ring using a nail and hammer, then cut out the rest with tin snips.) You may need to use pliers to bend any sharp edges down and in—aluminum is very sharp, so be extra careful here.
Prep the Light
Place the mason jar lid on the socket. Then, use the socket ring to secure the fixture.
Screw Everything into Place
Photo: Ezume Images / Adobe Stock
To finish, screw in the light bulb, then screw the jar onto the lid. Make sure it’s secure before mounting it. Voila—you’ve successfully created your very own mason jar lighting.
DIY Mason Jar Lighting vs. Hiring a Pro
There are some projects that you’ll want to look into outdoor lighting companies near you for, and there are some projects that are totally doable and fun to do on your own. DIY mason jar lighting definitely falls into the latter category. And, considering that it costs between $95 and $250 to install regular pendant lights, making your own light fixtures is a relatively affordable endeavor.
