Halloween Lantern: The witching hour begins as soon as the sun sets on Halloween, so make sure you’re prepared with some festive lanterns. You don’t have to buy anything new for your Halloween decor-there are plenty of DIY options, no matter what your skill level is.
Craft anything from skull lanterns made from upcycled milk bottles to fancier, Haunted Mansion-inspired metal lanterns. Regardless of what you prefer, we have plenty of ideas to get you started.
These are some of the easiest lanterns to make. All you need are some milk jugs, a permanent marker, string lights and you’re all set!
Get a full tutorial at Shelterness.
SHOP LIGHTS String lights, $15.99
These origami lantern lights put a creative spin on the Jack-o’-lantern’s tradition. You can hang these lantern lights hung around your home or even create a centerpiece out of them similar to what’s shown here.
You can find the tutorial at House of Crux.
SHOP LIGHTS String lights, $15.99
This is another simple and mess-free jack-o’-lantern lantern that you and your family can make. If you have so plastic jack-o’-lantern buckets and some small lights you can put this together in a matter of seconds.
You can find the tutorial at Scratch & Stich
SHOP JACK-O’-LANTERNS, Plastic buckets $11.59
This one is so easy, you don’t even have to do any crafting. Turn any of your existing lanterns into Halloween decor by filling them up with candy!
See more at Sugar and Charm.
SHOP LANTERNS White Lantern, $40
This plastic cup lantern is both simple and fun to make. You can make use of some of the tea lights you have hanging around and make this fun Halloween lantern creation.
SHOP LIGHTS Tea
If you’ve never met a mason jar you didn’t like, this is the Halloween DIY for you. Spruce a few up with a little paint, add a glowing light, and you’ll be set.
Get the tutorial at Jolene’s Crafting.
SHOP JARS Mason Jars, $10
This one is easy enough that kids (or craft-challenged adults) can totally handle it. Bonus: It’s not a super messy DIY.
Get the tutorial at The Crafting Chicks.
SHOP PAPER Orange Construction Paper, $4
For this one, you’ll just need papier-mâché materials (or cheese cloths) and mason jars. You could even use any extra bandage materials from a first aid kit or toilet paper if you’re short on time.
SHOP JARS Mason Jars, $10
Recreate the decor from your favorite Disney ride at home! They’re Jack Skellington–approved and perfect for those who prefer decor with sleek, clean lines.
Get the tutorial at Polka Dot Chair.
SHOP LANTERNS Metal Lantern, $27
Not sure what to do with your old food cans? Make these hole-punched tin can lanterns for Halloween. Or, if you don’t have any extra cans, just order some on Etsy.
Get the full tutorial from The Paper Mama.
SHOP CANS Metal Cans, $7
Here are some monsters that won’t scare your kiddos. Let them customize paper lanterns with their favorite colors. All it involves is a bit of coloring and glueing. Easy!
Get the tutorial at My Creative Days.
SHOP LANTERNS Paper Lantern, $1
The real magic of these lanterns happens when the lights go out. They’ll have trick-or-treaters in awe rather than terror as they walk up to your door.
Get the tutorial at Adventure in a Box.
SHOP JARS Mason Jars, $10
Light the way to your front door on Halloween night with these ghost and pumpkin lanterns. You can never go wrong with the classics or a little Mod Podge.
Get the tutorial at Erin Spain.
SHOP TISSUE PAPER Orange Tissue Paper, $8
Instead of tossing your glass jars from sauces or dips, use them to make this is a creative, spooky DIY. We love a good upcycled craft!
Get the tutorial at Le Coin de Mel.
SHOP JARS Mason Jars, $10
Turn empty milk bottles into lighted skulls. You can line them up on your driveway, place them on a mantle, or throw a few in the backyard.
Get the tutorial at Dollar Store Crafts.
SHOP LIGHTS LED Tea Lights, $12
Paper bag luminaries are a no-fail classic. Scribble any Halloween-themed designs on them, toss a tea light in the bags, and call it a day.
