DIY Mason Jar Lamp Tutorial

If you love mason jars and enjoy finding creative ways to personalize your home, this DIY Mason Jar Lamp is such a fun project! With a mason jar, a lamp lighting kit, and a lampshade, you can create a one-of-a-kind lamp that shows off some of your favorite things.

I filled mine with seashells to complement my daughter’s beach-inspired bedroom, but you can customize the jar to fit just about any room or decorating style. Think wine corks from special occasions, vintage buttons, colorful marbles, acorns, or little treasures collected on vacation.

It’s a simple way to turn an ordinary mason jar into a charming piece of home decor.

Supplies You’ll Need

You only need a few items to make your own mason jar lamp.

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Mason Jar
Drill
with a large drill bit (needs to be larger than the base of your socket in your lamp kit)
Lamp lighting kit
Lamp Shade

You can find mason jars at craft stores, hardware stores, and even thrift shops. A lamp lighting kit is available at many hardware and craft stores or online.

A quick note about your lamp kit: Check its instructions before drilling. The hole in the metal jar lid needs to fit the socket’s mounting hardware, and the kit needs to be compatible with the way you’re assembling the lamp. Do not drill into the glass jar.

How to Make a Mason Jar Lamp

I hope these instructions are easy for you. I think this is such a fun and easy DIY Mason Jar Lamp. You can pick whatever size mason jar you want to use. Your local thrift store is a great place to find mason jars too.

1. Drill a Hole in the Mason Jar Lid

Start by removing the flat lid from the mason jar. You’ll need to make a hole in the center that’s large enough for the lamp socket’s mounting hardware to pass through.

I recommend placing painter’s tape over the area before drilling. It can help keep the drill bit from slipping and make the opening neater.

Follow the lamp kit’s instructions for the required hole size. Wear appropriate eye protection and secure the lid while drilling.

2. Prepare the Lamp Socket and Jar Ring

Once the hole is ready, slide the mason jar ring and the decorative base or hardware supplied with your lamp kit over the appropriate end of the socket assembly.

The exact order can vary by lamp kit, so use the manufacturer’s directions as your guide.

3. Attach the Lamp Kit to the Lid

Insert the socket’s mounting hardware through the hole in the mason jar lid. Secure it with the washer and nut supplied with the kit, tightening everything according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Make sure the socket assembly is secure and properly positioned before moving on.

4. Assemble the Mason Jar Lamp

Add your decorative items to the mason jar. Then place the prepared lid on the jar and screw the metal ring into place.

Your mason jar lamp base is ready for its finishing touches!

5. Add a Lampshade

Choose a lampshade that works with the socket and shade attachment included with your lamp kit. Some lampshades attach with a fitting that is held in place by the light bulb, while others use a different fitting.

Check that the shade is the correct type and size for your lamp before purchasing it.

Once the shade is attached according to the kit instructions, add a compatible light bulb. Your personalized mason jar lamp is ready to brighten up your space!

What Can You Put Inside a Mason Jar Lamp?

This is my favorite part of the project because you can make the lamp fit your home, your hobbies, or even a special memory.

I filled mine with seashells for a beachy look in my daughter’s bedroom. Here are some other ideas:

Seashells and starfish: Perfect for coastal or beach-inspired decor.
Wine corks: A fun way to remember special celebrations.
Vintage buttons: A sweet addition to a sewing room or craft space.
Colorful marbles: Let the colors become part of the design.
Acorns and pinecones: Bring a little seasonal charm to a fall or winter room.
Smooth rocks: A natural look that works with many decorating styles.
Small keepsakes: Display little treasures that have a special meaning to you.

Choose items that fit comfortably inside the jar and leave the lamp components unobstructed.

More Ways to Customize Your DIY Lamp

The jar filler isn’t the only way to make this project your own!

Choose a different lampshade. A burlap shade gives the lamp a relaxed, rustic look, while a simple linen shade can feel more tailored. You could also use a shade that coordinates with the colors in your room.

Try a different jar. Mason jars come in different sizes and styles, so you can experiment with the look. Just make sure the jar, lid, lamp hardware, and shade are compatible before assembling everything.

Decorate for the seasons. Acorns and small pinecones are lovely for fall and winter. Seashells are a natural choice for summer, and colorful keepsakes can make the lamp feel personal all year long.

Where to Display Your Mason Jar Lamp

A finished mason jar lamp looks especially sweet on a bedside table, but it can work in other spaces, too.

Try one on:

A bedroom nightstand
A living room side table
A coastal-inspired guest room
A craft room or sewing room
A reading nook
A shelf or console table, provided the lamp has a stable surface and enough clearance

I love that this project combines lighting with a little display space. Instead of tucking your favorite keepsakes away, you can turn them into part of your decor!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you attach a lampshade to a mason jar lamp?

The lampshade attaches to the lamp socket using the fitting designed for your particular lamp kit. Some shades are held in place by the light bulb, while others require a different attachment. Check the kit and shade compatibility before buying.

What size mason jar should I use?

The original tutorial doesn’t specify the exact jar size. Choose a jar that works proportionally with your lampshade and lamp hardware, and check the fit before drilling the lid.

Can I use a vintage mason jar?

Yes, a vintage jar can make a beautiful lamp base. Check the glass for cracks or chips and make sure you have a compatible lid and ring.

What can I use instead of seashells?

Wine corks, marbles, vintage buttons, acorns, small pinecones, smooth stones, and other keepsakes are all fun possibilities. Choose items that fit inside the jar without interfering with the lamp assembly.

Can I use a different lampshade?

Absolutely, as long as the shade’s attachment is compatible with your lamp socket. The shade’s proportions also matter: you want it to look balanced with the jar.

Make a Mason Jar Lamp That’s All Your Own

I love projects that are easy to personalize, and this DIY mason jar lamp is a great example. Whether you fill yours with seashells, wine corks, or little treasures you’ve collected over the years, you’ll have a lamp that’s completely your own.

Have fun choosing your jar filler and lampshade!