How To: Make Garden Luminaries

Add a decorative glow to the tabletop or garden with these easy-to-make sap bucket luminaries.

By Jean Nayar | Updated Mar 3, 2014 8:28 PM

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

How to Make Garden Luminaries

Photo: 52 Weekend Decorating Projects

Luminaries create an enchanting glow at dusk along a garden path or atop a picnic table. Here’s how to turn an old sap bucket into a delightful source of light:

MATERIALS AND TOOLS Available on Amazon
Paper
Pencil
Tape
Saral paper
Sap bucket
Safety goggles
Drill with 1/8inch metal drill bit
Pillar candle or batteryoperated votive

How to Make Garden Luminaries - Complete

Photo: finegardening.com

DIRECTIONS
1. Mark dots in a sun or starburst pattern on a piece of paper.

2. Tape a piece a saral paper to the sap bucket. Tape the dot pattern over the saral paper. Use a pencil to mark over the existing dots and transfer the pattern onto the bucket. Remove the pattern and saral paper and retrace any dot that can’t be seen clearly. Repeat this process on the other side of the bucket.

3. Place the bucket on its side on a bed of sand or soft earth. Wearing safety goggles, drill holes through each of the marks.

4. Place a pillar candle or battery-operated votive inside the bucket.

Photos courtesy: (top) 52 Weekend Decorating Projects; (bottom) Fine Gardening

Want more How To? Browse all projects in 30 Days of Easy Summer DIY