DIY Dollar Tree Solar Lights
Picture this: a warm summer evening, fireflies twinkling in the distance, and your yard transformed into a magical wonderland. Sounds enchanting, doesn’t it? Well, get ready to add a touch of whimsy to your outdoor space with DIY Dollar Tree Solar Lights! These delightful creations are not only easy to make but also budget-friendly. So, grab your mason jars, and let’s embark on a journey to illuminate your garden with a sprinkle of magic!
Embarrassing Note/Tip: I don’t have a craft space so to protect counters/tables I do all my crafting on disposable Dog Pee pads. They are durable, cheap, don’t leak, and make for a super easy clean-up. I also used them in the car when I was pregnant in case my water broke.
MATERIALS
(Below are AMAZON alternatives in case your dollar tree doesn’t carry the items mentioned.)
1. GLUE
While you can make this with the Dollar Tree Adhesive, I prefer to use a glue gun and silicone sealant.
Cordless Hot Glue Gun
I’ve had this glue gun for 10 years and it is still going strong. I’m so mad that I left it in the storage unit with my teaching supplies and had to use a corded glue gun.
OR
Dollar Tree Adhesive
I prefer a glue gun but this will work too! It says that it is “water resistant” but I recommend using a clear silicone sealant just to be safe.
2. Sealant (OPTIONAL)
Silicone Kitchen & Bath Sealant (Clear)
100% Waterproof and ready in 30 minutes. You don’t HAVE to do this step but this will seal the solar panel lid to the jar so that when it rains, water will not get in.
3. Metal Plant Hangers
Plant Hangers
I used 6 to line our entryway path. I broke one trying to shove it in our dry soil so use gentle hands! Try wetting the soil first.
OR
4 Pack Plant Hook
These shepherd’s hooks measure 35 inches high and are made of high-quality, long-lasting steel.
4. Solar Lights
Solar Lights
Dollar Tree carries silver and black. I used black to match the plant hook.
OR
Solar Outdoor Lights 12 Pack
These come apart the same as the Dollar Tree ones.
5. Mason Jars
You can use any jar you like as long as the solar light fits inside. I got my jars from hobby lobby because I was looking for a more rounded jar but the Dollar Tree has tons that would work too!
Round Glass Mason Jar – 8 Ounce
My Dollar Tree was sold out of the jars I wanted. These are the ones I ended up using. But you can use any jar as long as the solar light fits inside!
6. Twine
You can use any twine. I prefer the wired kind for more stability.
Wired Jute Cords
OR
Jute Twine
PREP WORK
-Remove labels
-Remove the tab on the solar lights to activate them.
-Heat up glue gun (if using)
-wet a paper towel to have on hand for sealant
DIRECTIONS
DIY Dollar Tree Solar Lights
- Pop the bottoms off solar lights
- Remove jar lids
(STOP. If you want to use a theme listed below, now is the time to do it before we seal it!)
- Run glue around the top of jar
- Place solar light inside jar
- (OPTIONAL) Run clear caulk around the edge where the solar light meets jar. (Use a wet paper towel to wet your fingers to make it smooth)
- Wrap twine around jar.
- Put metal planter in the ground and hang your gorgeous light!
- Embrace the magic: As night falls, witness the enchantment as your DIY creations come to life! The solar lights will automatically turn on, casting a soft, captivating glow throughout your garden. Bask in the whimsical ambiance, and let the magic of your mason jar solar lights transport you to a world of fairy tales.
THEMES for DIY Dollar Tree Solar Lights
By infusing your mason jar solar lights with unique themes, you can add an extra dose of magic and personality to your creations!
Simple & Sparkly:
Want to add more of a sparkle? Just add some glass beads and boom, sparkle city!
Fairy Garden Fantasy:
Step into a world of make-believe with a fairy garden-themed mason jar solar light. To create this enchanting theme:
Attach miniature fairy figurines to the inside of the jar using a strong adhesive.
Sprinkle a pinch of moss and add tiny mushrooms for a touch of whimsy.
Place the fairy-themed mason jar solar lights near plants or shrubs to evoke the ambiance of a mystical forest.
Starry Night Sky:
Bring the magic of a starry night sky to your garden by crafting mason jar solar lights with this celestial theme:
Choose blue or purple-tinted mason jars to resemble the night sky.
Create constellations by sticking glow-in-the-dark stars or adhesive star stickers on the inside of the jar.
When the solar lights illuminate the starry designs, you’ll experience the awe-inspiring beauty of a starlit sky right in your own backyard.
Butterfly Haven:
Transform your garden into a haven for butterflies with a butterfly-themed mason jar solar light. Here’s how:
Adorn the outside of the jar with colorful butterfly cutouts or decals.
Fill the jar with silk or artificial flowers to attract butterflies and add a natural touch.
Enhance the butterfly ambiance by planting nectar-rich flowers nearby, attracting real butterflies during the day.
Seaside Serenity:
Capture the essence of a serene beach paradise with a seaside-themed mason jar solar light. To create this coastal charm:
Use blue or teal-colored mason jars to evoke the colors of the ocean.
Fill the jars with seashells, sand, and small pieces of driftwood.
Display the seaside-themed lights near a small sand-filled area or alongside potted succulents, bringing the beach ambiance to life.
Rustic Charm:
Embrace rustic elegance by incorporating a rustic-themed mason jar solar light into your garden. Here’s how:
Wrap twine or burlap around the neck of the mason jars for a rustic touch.
Fill the jars with dried flowers, such as lavender or baby’s breath, for a timeless look.
These versatile lights can complement various outdoor settings, making them perfect for gardens, patios, or rustic-themed weddings.
Enchanted Garden:
Step into an enchanted garden with this whimsical theme for your mason jar solar lights:
Add small faux mushrooms, gnomes, and fairy lights inside the jar to create a magical atmosphere.
Paint the jar lids with metallic or iridescent paint for an ethereal glow.
Place the enchanted mason jar solar lights among lush greenery or under a garden archway to transport your garden to a realm of enchantment.
DIY Dollar Tree Solar Lights Memory Enhancers
Memory Enhancer: Going for an evening walk with your kids? These versatile lights also work as little lanterns! Just grab the lights and go!
Memory Enhancer: Having a party? Hang the lights from tree branches or place them on picnic tables to create an ethereal atmosphere!
What I love about these lights is that they are not in your face kind of bright. They are a soft, English fairy garden kind of light which is exactly the look I was going for. I also made some to sit on the table out back and to sit by our front door. They make my heart smile every time I see them. These little lights took our outdoor space from “blah” to “aww!”.
With just a few simple materials and a sprinkle of creativity, you can transform your garden into a mesmerizing wonderland with DIY Dollar Tree Solar Lights. These easy-to-make lights not only add a touch of enchantment to your outdoor space but also embrace eco-friendly solar power. So, gather your mason jars, grab your glue gun, and embark on a journey to create a magical garden that will captivate both young and old alike. Let the magic begin!
Looking for more Mason Jar crafts? Check out this kid-friendly Mason Jar Lantern by Kim!
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