lace lanterns

I'm so glad that my little lanterns are a hit!

I had a number of phone calls and messages

about the lace covered lanterns from my last post.

I'm more than happy to share the how-to instructions...

 

 

but you really won't believe

just how simple they are to make!

 

 

What you will need...

canning jars

galvanized wire

scraps of lace

needle and thread

scissors and needle nose pliers

 

 

1. Wrap wire around the neck of the jar.

2. Twist ends together and tuck the sharp end toward the jar.

3. Make the hanger using wire 1" longer than the desired finished length (an upside-down U shape).

4. Feed each end of the wire hanger into the wire around the jar neck (between the glass and the wire)at opposite sides of the jar.

5. Using the pliers, bend the wire hanger ends up to create a loop and crimp the ends to secure.

6. Cut a piece of lace as wide as the height of the jar and as long as the circumference of the jar.

7. Wrap the lace around the jar and stitch in place.

Fabric glue works well too!

*For a finished look, tuck the edges under

and hem prior to wrapping around the jar.

 

 

The finished jars can be filled with water and fresh flowers

or put some sand in the bottom with a candle for a stunning lantern. As the candlelight filters through the lace

even the garden fairies will be impressed.

 

Lace can be used throughout the garden in so many different ways.

Just remember to use linens that already have stains, holes or tattered edges. Never use precious heirlooms or valuable collectables that will be damaged by the elements.

 

 

This project and many other ideas for using lace in the garden were first featured in Flea Market Décor a few summers ago...

 

 

Thanks for the questions...keep 'em coming!

 

dressed in lace and linens

It is no secret how much I adore all things gardening.

I thought I would share some images of my garden.

Although it has been styled for several garden magazines,

I really do live in my garden.

She's not just another pretty face...

she's a hard working garden.

 

 

I wrote a portion of my favorite garden quote

by the ever-so-lovely Audrey Hepburn on the chalkboard...

"To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow."

Welcome to my garden!

 

I have furnished the garden space

entirely with vintage treasures.

 

 

It reflects the same design philosophy

I apply to decorating the interior of my home. 

Vintage furniture, linens, accessories and mirrors.

 

One very special material I like to use

may be a little unexpected...lace.

 

I seem to have an endless collection of beyond shabby linens

that are a little too worn for the house.

So they go straight to the garden.

 

My favorite garden linen is this beautiful vintage hammock.

 

My potting bench is rarely clean

so it's great to have a photo to remember

what it's supposed to like

under loads of soil and garden cuttings.

 

I keep an Ironstone bowl outside as a washbowl.

 

A bar of soap is a must in my garden...

 

I use vintage tablecloths

with signs of wear and age as table skirts.

 

I do like to use indoor furnishings as plant stands.

They require several coats of polyurethane

to help protect against the elements.

 

Bits of architectural salvage

are also peppered throughout the garden.

 

Each year I do have a lot of painting touch-ups

but I don't mind...it's part of the fun!

 

I will put out some linens on vintage drying racks.

It's a better way to enjoy them than having them

stuffed into drawers and cupboards in the house.

 

My garden really is an additional living space of my home.

I live, laugh, work and relax in my garden.

 

As evening approaches the garden takes on

an entirely different personality.

The twinkle of the café lights illuminate the entire space

and special lace covered lanterns glow in the trees.

I hope you enjoyed this mini tour of my summer garden dressed in it's best lace and linen...

 

Until next time...and the next garden transformation!

Thanks so much for visiting...