When the holidays roll around, there’s something magical about a warm glow guiding guests to your door or lining your walkways. Enter: the humble yet charming paper bag luminary. These little lights are a budget-friendly way to add instant coziness to your home, whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to brighten up the season. Bonus? They’re as easy to make as they are beautiful.
What You’ll Need:
- Paper bags: White or kraft brown bags work best, but you can get creative with colors if you like.
- Tea lights: Go flameless for safety, or use real candles if you’re keeping them outdoors.
- Sand or small rocks: This keeps the bags weighted down, so they won’t blow away.
- A hole punch or craft knife: For creating your design.
How to Make Them:
1. Design Your Bags
Grab your paper bags and think about the vibe you want to create. A hole punch can give you simple, uniform dots, while a craft knife lets you cut out stars, trees, or any other holiday motif. If freehand cutting isn’t your thing, trace a stencil onto the bag first to guide you.
2. Anchor Your Luminary
Add a scoop or two of sand (or small rocks) to the bottom of each bag. This gives the bag weight so it stands tall and stays put. Plus, it’s a great way to keep them steady if there’s a breeze.
3. Light Them Up
Pop in a tea light—flameless for indoors, real candles if you’re outside and keeping an eye on them. The light will shine through the holes you’ve punched or cut, casting a soft, welcoming glow.
4. Set the Scene
Line your walkway, driveway, or even your porch steps with the luminaries. You can space them evenly for a clean, classic look or cluster them for a more organic, whimsical vibe.
Why We Love Them
Paper bag luminaries are the perfect mix of simple and stunning. They’re affordable, quick to make, and totally customizable. Best of all, they bring a little extra magic to your holiday décor without requiring a trip to the craft store (if you’re lucky, you already have everything you need).
Pro Tip: Get the Kids Involved
If you’re looking for a fun family activity, this project is perfect for little hands. Let the kids decorate their own bags or help arrange them outside. It’s a great way to make holiday memories together while creating something beautiful.
These luminaries are a glowing reminder that sometimes the simplest projects have the biggest impact. So grab your bags, light those candles, and let your creativity shine—literally.
