How to Make a DIY Solar Lantern

A solar lantern is the perfect way to add a little ambiance without the hassle of expensive hard-wired lighting. Follow these directions to learn how to make your own DIY solar lantern for less than $15.

Skill

Easy

Cost

$12 and up

Estimated Time

1 hour

A solar lantern is the perfect way to add a little ambiance without the hassle of expensive hard-wired lighting. And to give it a finish that’s easy to apply, and will withstand the elements outdoors, I’m teaming up with our friends at Varathane.

They make a fast-drying stain that saves me time, and a water-based spar urethane that seals out water.

For this project I also grabbed some scrap 1x boards and picked up square dowels, wire hardware cloth, and a solar light bulb.

DIY Solar Lantern by House One

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Steps for Making a Solar Lantern

Step 1: Cut the Parts

Download our cut list above. Using a miter saw, cut the parts. To cut the dowels, set the saw to 2.5-degrees. To make the dowels splay outward in both directions, tip the dowel on edge during the cut as shown.

Step 2: Drill the Top Hole

Drill a hole in the center of the lantern top for the solar light bulb.

Step 3: Assemble the Parts

Assemble the parts by drilling pilot holes through the top and bottom boards and into the square dowels. Secure the pieces with wood glue and screws.

Step 4: Size the Hardware Cloth

Trace the inside opening of the assembled frame onto the hardware cloth.

Step 5: Cut the Hardware Cloth

Cut three panels from the hardware cloth.

Step 6: Apply the Stain

Sand the parts, and then wipe away any dust with a lint-free cloth. Using a lint-free cloth, wipe on a coat of stain in the direction on the grain. I’m using a Varathane color called Weathered Gray. Let the stain set for two to three minutes. Wipe away the excess stain with a lint-free cloth, and let dry for at least an hour.

Step 7: Apply the Top Coat