Rustic Lantern: Easy and Affordable With 2x4s

by Diva of DIY

This 24 rustic lantern is perfect for any season! Since starting our big Lake House Fixer Upper Project I always have that in mind when coming up with my next project. When I had the opportunity to participate in the led by Gina from The Shabby Creek Cottage, I decided to do a project for the outside. I love the rustic feel of these lanterns!

rustic lantern easy and affordable with 2x4s, pallet, woodworking projects

You all know how much I love pallets so I keep a stack at my shop at all times. Once I cut the pallets off of the frame, I am left with a stack of 2 x 4's...woohoo! I use them for all sorts of projects and these rustic lanterns are now one of my favorites ways to upcycle those old, and yes free 24's!

If you have never used a Kreg Jig you should give it a try. It makes joining 2 pieces of wood together fast and easy.

*see link below to get sketch diagram at Diva of DIY that the steps refer to.

Step 1) Using the kreg jig, drill 4 pocket holes in 4 of the "A" boards.

Step 2) Screw 2 of the pocket-hole-drilled "A" boards to one of the undrilled "A" boards. Repeat with the other 3 "A" boards. This creates the top and bottom of your lantern.

Step 3) Apply a small amount of wood glue to the end of one of your "B" boards.

Step 4) Attach the "B" board to the bottom of your lantern using 2 screws. Repeat with the other three "B" boards.

Step 5) Flip the lantern over and start attaching "C" and "D" boards

Step 6) Set the top of the lantern in place over the upright "B" boards. Secure with wood screws.

Step 7) Using wood screws, attach your remaining "C" board to the top of lantern for added dimension. Attach optional finial if desired.

Step 8) Screw in a 1.5 screw to each side of your topper board. Attach baling wiring to create a handle.

So what do you think? These can obviously also be done with new 24's for a cleaner look, it's a perfect way to use up scraps from building projects! Of course once I made this one my mind went crazy with designs for others. Check Diva of Diy for another option. Also while you are there make sure and check out all the amazing 24 projects made for this challenge. There is something for everyone!

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Frequently asked questions

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2 questions

Mandy Morrow on Mar 03, 2016
where did you get the metal bracket attached to the Kreg tool? (not the clamp)

1
Jua3924681 on Mar 03, 2016
We always have problems with termites attacking pallets, so we throughout all of them here in PR. This wood is not treated. How is it you do not have this problem.???

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4 of 27 comments

Betty Tuffner on Mar 03, 2016
We get pallets every time we buy wood pellets for our stove. Have enough of them that the husband is making a new chicken coop and duck house out of them.

1 Reply
- Diva of DIY on Mar 04, 2016
  @Betty Tufter Well he better get to work! Lol
  
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Abby Rexroth on Mar 04, 2016
I like it, it has an Asian look to it.

1 Reply
- Diva of DIY on Mar 04, 2016
  @Abby Rexroth Thanks Abby
  
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