Autumn DIY Leaf Lights

This summer has been one for the books. In Nevada City, we’re somewhat lucky. We experience heat, but never quite as warm as the valley below us. And it never fails, summertime always brings beauty with so much wonderful daylight. Summer could be my favorite season… but then comes fall, and I’m reminded that autumn is the season of color, especially in Nevada City.

Nevada City comes to life during the autumn months. September turns the trees into mosaics, full of reds, purples, yellows, and oranges. And not just any red. I’m talking scarlet. Rust. Gold. Burgundy. Complete, utter brilliance. 

I had to share this DIY project I found. This is the perfect way to celebrate the changing seasons and bring a little bit of fall’s beauty into your home. I love home decor projects you can do on your own. This one can be done solo or with the whole family.

First, head outside. Get up-close and personal with the leaves the ground and collect a nice little bundle. Head back inside and get started making your Autumn Leaf Light.

Step-by-step

1. You’ll need the leaves you just collected, some Mod Podge (get at any crafts store), one clean mason jar (or more), a sponge brush, a few tea lights, and some time. Lay down newspaper if you’re worried about making a mess.
2. Make sure your leaves are malleable and won’t tear or crumble if you bend them around the jar. If you have to, take a towel and gently dampen the leaves so they’re more “bendy”.
3. Dip your sponge brush into the Mod Podge and apply a light layer to one spot on the mason jar. Wait just a few seconds until the liquid becomes sticky, and then press your leaf onto the jar. Paint some more Mod Podge over the leaf, using the sponge brush to softly smooth out the edges.
4. You may need to press the corners of the leaf down as it dries onto the mason jar. Feel free to use a few extra layers of Mod Podge to get the leaf to stick. As the Mod Podge dries, you’ll see that the leaf is “glued” to the mason jar.
5. Repeat steps 2, 3, and 4 until your jar is covered in leafs to your liking. Set your jar aside and allow it to dry.
6. (Optional) Take some twine or rafia and tie it around the top of the mason jar to give the project the finishing touch. Place your tea light inside the jar and watch the colors of your leaves really come to life!

Try this project at home and let me know how it goes, and give me a call to learn more about Nevada City homes for sale. 

Photos courtesy Spark & Chemistry blog