Make a Terrarium Twilight Lantern

Magical Lantern Garden

Transform a large metal lantern into an illuminated miniature garden with spring flowers and twinkling fairy lights.

Materials

• Lantern (at least 15″ tall)
• 4 small knobs with bolts
• Exterior spray paint
• Thick cardboard (for bottom tray)
• Adhesive putty
• Battery‑operated string lights
• Plants: mini daffodils, candytuft, aluminum plant, grape hyacinth, etc.
• Potting soil & preserved moss
• Tools: awl, hammer, sanding pad, scissors, pliers, pencil, measuring tape

Step‑by‑Step

1. Attach Legs

Invert lantern; punch a small hole in each corner of the bottom. Screw a knob into each hole, secure with bolt inside.

2. Prep for Painting

Scuff metal with sanding pad, wipe clean. Remove glass panels or mask them off.

3. Paint

Spray‑paint lantern; let dry overnight. Apply second coat; dry thoroughly.

4. Create Planter Liner

Measure lantern interior bottom; cut cardboard to fit with 1‑2″ side flaps. Fold flaps up.

5. Add Lights

Attach adhesive putty to opposite sides of battery pack. Press pack into top interior of lantern (hidden but accessible).

6. Finishing Touches

Arrange plants on liner; fill gaps with soil, cover roots. Top with dampened moss. Drape lights above and around plants; secure with putty if needed.