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Autumn leaf lanterns

Autumn leaf lanterns

Making these pretty jam jar lanterns is the perfect indoor activity as the days get chillier and the nights start to get longer. Although this activity requires some prep time (including a lovely autumnal walk to collect the leaves), assembling your lantern is incredibly easy, making it ideal for the whole family

Autumn leaf lanterns

For this activity, you'll need:

  • Autumn leaves

  • Two sheets of paper

  • Two heavy books (or similar for pressing the leaves)

  • Jam jars or other glass jars

  • PVA glue

  • A paint brush

  • Cotton thread in autumnal colours

  • Tea lights (or a battery-powered tea light)

Autumn leaf lanterns

Let's get started

Step 1:

Go for a walk and collect some colourful autumn leaves. Try to find a nice mixture of sizes and colours

Step 2:

Put the leaves between the two pieces of paper and gently press them with two heavy books for two to three days

Autumn leaf lanterns

Step 3:

Once the leaves are fully dried out, paint some PVA glue onto the jar and then gently place the first leaf onto the glass until it sticks. Repeat this with other leaves

Step 4:

When you’ve added all the leaves you want, paint a thin layer of PVA glue over the entire jar

Autumn leaf lanterns

Step 5:

Before the glue dries, add some colourful cotton thread to the outside to help keep the leaves in place

Step 6:

Leave your lantern to dry overnight

Step 7:

The next day, ask an adult to help you add a tea light (or battery-powered tea light) to the inside and enjoy the autumnal glow

We can’t wait to see your sprouting lovely lanterns! Don’t forget to take photos and tag us using #DobbiesLittleSeedlings

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