James (9) and I (not 9) recently made these solar lanterns for a school project. I was impressed with myself which rarely happens. I was mostly impressed because I actually did a craft project which I wholly dislike. I mean borderline hate. The only reason we did this project was because James had to do it for school. I'd like to say I did it because I am a good mother and love spending time crafting with my children but we all know that would be a lie. It was on our recent trip to Botswana I learned about these smart pretty little solar lanterns and figured they wouldn't be that hard to make at home.
Duma Tau Camp in Botswana - this was our room. Depressed yet?
I searched solar lanterns and once again Pinterest the answers.
Every night I say a little prayer that goes like this: "Dear Jesus, thank you for creating Pinterest." Jesus appreciates it when you acknowledge His many blessings.
The great thing about these solar lanterns is that you can find most of the materials at the dollar store. I did not go to the dollar store because I have zero patience. Instead I found some jars in my basement that I was going to use for teacher gifts during Christmas.
Still don't know what I was thinking. And I dug the solar lights out of my back flower bed. Martha and I will never be friends - I've accepted it. I don't know if she has yet but time will tell.
Supplies Needed:
- Solar stake lights
- Mason jars
- Hot glue gun
Directions:
- Remove the stake part of the solar light so you are left with just the round light part.
- Unscrew the lid of the jar. Remove the flat part of the lid and just keep the ring.
- Glue the top part of the solar light into the ring of the jar.
- Feel free to add something into the jar to weight it down or give it a little interest (James and I used rocks and twigs - vodka would also work).
- Screw the lid back onto the jar and set the jar in full sun during the day so the solar light powers up.
In the evening use the jars to light tables or walkways outside; they also make a great kids nightlight (without the vodka).