DIY Rustic Tree-Bark Lanterns — Easy Votive Holders for Cozy Home Decor
Make a warm, natural accent for any room or outdoor gathering with these simple DIY tree-bark lanterns. Using glass votive holders wrapped in real bark and tied with twine, you can create a rustic, cozy glow in minutes. This project is quick, budget-friendly, and works well with real candles or LED tea lights for a safer option.
Supplies Needed
- Glass votive holders
- Tree bark (strips)
- Twine
- Rubber bands
- Candles or LED tea lights
- Scissors
- Saw or sharp knife
Finished rustic bark-wrapped lantern casting a warm glow.
Gather supplies: glass votive, bark strips, twine and basic tools.
Steps
- Measure how tall you want the bark pieces to stand above and below the candle holder, then mark the bark pieces accordingly.
- Using a saw or a sharp knife, cut the bark so that one end is straight and even for a neat fit against the glass.
Trim each bark piece to an even height so they sit uniformly around the glass.
- Around the glass candle holder, slide a rubber band to hold the pieces in place temporarily.
- Stick the bark pieces around the candle holder, tucking the bottoms under the rubber band to hold them snugly against the glass.
Tuck bark pieces under a rubber band to form the lantern shape.
- Cut a length of twine and wrap it around the middle of the bark, covering the rubber band completely. Wrap 4–5 times and tie a secure knot.
Wrap twine around the bark to hide the rubber band and secure the pieces.
- Add any embellishments you like (small pinecones, dried flowers, or ribbon). Place a candle or LED tea light inside and display.
Finished lanterns can be decorated and used indoors or on covered outdoor tables.
Tips & safety: If using real candles, never leave them unattended and keep the flame away from loose bark or twine—use a votive holder that contains the flame. For a safer and longer-lasting option, use battery-operated LED tea lights that provide the same cozy look without an open flame.