Rain Proof Solar Lantern

These lanterns were only $1.00 each

I chose to use an inexpensive Dollar Store lantern. Another option would of been to use a more expensive jar or a canning jar, but I didn’t want to spend a lot for a DIY solar lantern.

Along with the Dollar Store lantern, I used a Dollar Store solar light stick, and a take out Panera Bread salad container.

All the supplies I used for my solar lantern are pictured here. I used the larger lid from a Panera Bread take out salad container, but you could use any clear plastic container. I chose to paint the top of my lantern so it would look like a canning jar, but you could skip this step if you don’t have craft paint.

First I traced the top of a lantern onto a piece of clear plastic. I then cut my traced circle with a pair of sharp scissors.

I applied glue around the edge of the solar light and placed the plastic piece on top. I made sure the plastic was completely glued to the light before proceeding to the next step.

I then applied a bead of glue around the lip of a tea light jar.

Before the jar glue dried, I placed the solar light with plastic lid inside the jar and let dry.

Once the glue was dry and the lid was securely attached to the jar, I painted the sides and top of the jar. I also used a silver sharpie to clean up the edges on the top of the jar.

My jar was now rain proof and ready to hang outside.

Store bought solar lanterns are not as bright as diy lanterns made with solar lights sticks. DIY lanterns using solar light sticks are brighter because they have a reflective material on the inside base.

So far my light has remained water tight despite heavy rains and wind.