DIY Autumn leaf luminaries are one of those crafts that make your whole home feel warmer. They’re simple, budget-friendly, and honestly, they look like something you’ve bought from a boutique home décor shop.
I love that they make the most of what nature is already giving us at this time of year, and that they’re easy enough for anyone to try, even if you don’t think of yourself as creative.
I usually collect leaves that are still flexible and colourful with a good shape when I’m out and about. If you’re walking with a loved one with dementia, you can turn this into a lovely sensory moment. Talk about the colours you see, feel the textures, and notice how the air smells different now the season has changed. It’s a simple way to connect.
The best part, it’s sooo easy to do! A clean jar, a few leaves, and some glue are enough to create a warm, flickering lantern you’ll be proud to display. And if you’ve enjoyed simple seasonal crafts before like Leaf Pressing Art, you’ll find this just as satisfying.
This article will walk you through exactly how to make your own autumn leaf luminaries, with tips I’ve learned from making them myself.
You’ll Need
- Glass jars (recycled ones work perfectly)
- Freshly picked autumn leaves (flexible, not brittle)
- PVA glue or Mod Podge
- Small paintbrush or sponge brush
- Battery-operated tea or fairy lights
- Optional: twine, ribbon, or lace for decoration
Step 1 – Collect Your Leaves
I prefer to collect mine on a dry day so they’re easier to work with. You want them soft and pliable, not crisp and crumbly. Take your time, notice the shapes and colours, and think about how they’ll look once lit from behind. If you’re crafting with a loved one with dementia, this is a wonderful chance for gentle conversation and connection. Bring a small bag so you can carry them home without squashing them.
Step 2 – Prepare Your Workspace
Lay down some newspaper or an old cloth to protect your table. Wash and dry your jars thoroughly so the glue sticks properly. I find it helps to have everything within arm’s reach before I start, jars, leaves, glue, brush, and any decorations I might want to add later.
Step 3 – Arrange the Leaves
Before you start gluing, place the leaves around your jar to see how they fit together. This is where you can get creative, maybe you want overlapping layers of colour, or maybe a single row of bright leaves.
I sometimes mix in a few small pressed leaves from previous crafts projects, so it’s worth learning how to press leaves so that you have a stock of them to use for crafts like these, read this Leaf Pressing Art – A gentle Autumn Craft for Adults on how to make them.
I loved using leaves for painting activities which my mum with dementia loved!
Step 4 – Glue the Leaves
Using a small brush, coat the back of each leaf with a thin layer of glue and press it gently onto the jar. Smooth out any wrinkles as you go. If the leaf won’t stay flat, try brushing a little glue over the top as well. Don’t worry if it looks slightly white at first, it will dry clear.
Step 5 – Let It Dry
Leave the jar to dry completely before adding your tea light. I usually give mine a few hours just to be sure. You’ll know it’s ready when the leaves feel firm and the glue is no longer tacky.
Step 6 – Add the Finishing Touches
Wrap twine, lace, or ribbon around the top of the jar for a rustic finish. Pop in a battery-operated tea light (never a real candle, as the heat could damage the leaves) and watch as the colours glow softly in the evening light.
If Something Goes Wrong
- Leaves peeling off? Add another thin coat of glue and press gently.
- Glue streaks showing? Use a softer brush next time and apply a thinner layer.
- Jars looking a little plain? Tie on some ribbon or add small decorative charms.
Try This Variation
You can make mini luminaries in smaller jars and group them together as a centrepiece. Or create a set of different coloured jars for each room in your home. They also make thoughtful gifts, wrap them in tissue paper and gift them to friends, neighbours, or even as seasonal décor in a care setting.
If you enjoyed this project, you might also like Leaf Pressing Art or my DIY Mason Jar Indoor Herb Garden, both are great ways to bring nature indoors.
Need more inspiration? Then check out the below craft ideas for creative things to do!