Building a wooden candle lantern with glass inserts is a rewarding woodworking project that combines craftsmanship with aesthetic appeal. A wooden lantern can serve as both a decorative piece and a functional item to enhance the ambiance of your home. This guide will walk you through the process of building a wooden candle lantern with glass inserts.
Materials Required:
Wood:
- Softwood (such as pine, cedar, or spruce) or hardwood for the frame.
- Dimensions: Choose wood pieces that are approximately 1” x 2” for the frame.
Glass inserts:
- Four glass panels (cut to the appropriate size, or glass sheets that can be cut to fit).
Candle:
- A tea light or pillar candle that fits inside the lantern.
Tools:
- Saw (table saw, miter saw, or hand saw).
- Drill with bits.
- Wood glue.
- Wood screws.
- Sandpaper or a sander.
- Wood finish or paint (optional).
- Clamps (to hold the frame together while the glue sets).
Other Supplies:
- Hinges for the door.
- Latch or clasp for the door.
- Decorative elements like handles, if desired.
Step 1: Design the Lantern
Before starting, sketch the design of your lantern. The size of the lantern will depend on the type of candle you intend to use. Typically, a lantern might be around 10-12 inches tall and about 6-8 inches wide. Make sure to account for the size of the glass panels and the candle when determining the dimensions.
Step 2: Prepare the Wood
Once you’ve chosen the design, cut the wood for the sides, top, and bottom of the lantern. You will need:
- Four vertical pieces for the sides.
- Two horizontal pieces for the top and bottom.
- Additional trim pieces to hold the glass in place.
For the sides, the cuts should be simple, with each piece cut to the appropriate length based on your design. For example, if you want a 12-inch tall lantern, cut four pieces of wood to 12 inches long.
Step 3: Cut the Glass Inserts
Next, cut the glass pieces. These glass inserts will fit into the openings of your wooden frame. If you don’t have access to a glass cutter, most hardware stores or glass suppliers will cut glass for you based on your measurements.
Each side panel of the lantern will have a glass insert, so measure the inner dimensions of the frame and subtract a small allowance for ease of fit. The glass should fit snugly but not be too tight.
Step 4: Assemble the Frame
Begin assembling the frame of your lantern by attaching the side pieces to the top and bottom. Use wood glue and screws to secure the joints.
- Apply glue to the ends of the side pieces and attach them to the top and bottom horizontal pieces. Use clamps to hold everything in place while the glue sets.
- Once the glue has dried, reinforce the joints with screws for added strength. Pre-drill holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
Step 5: Install the Glass Inserts
The glass panels will fit into the side openings of the lantern. Depending on your design, you can either create a frame to hold the glass in place or rely on the tension of the frame to keep the glass secure.
If you decide to use a wooden frame, measure the width and height of the glass, and cut additional wood pieces to create a snug frame. Place the glass into the side openings and attach the wooden frame around it, securing it with small nails or wood glue. Repeat this for all four sides.
Step 6: Attach the Door
The lantern will likely need a door to allow access for placing or removing the candle. This door can be hinged to one side of the lantern.
- Attach small hinges to one of the side pieces.
- Use a small piece of wood for the door, cutting it to the same dimensions as the side.
- Attach the door to the lantern using the hinges. Ensure that it opens and closes easily.
- Install a latch or clasp to keep the door securely closed when the lantern is in use.
Step 7: Sand and Finish
Once the frame is assembled, sand the entire lantern to smooth out any rough edges or surfaces. Use medium-grit sandpaper followed by fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish.
After sanding, you can choose to finish the wood by applying a wood stain, paint, or clear finish. Staining the wood enhances the natural grain and adds a rich tone, while painting can give the lantern a more colorful or rustic look. If you plan to use the lantern outdoors, consider applying a waterproof finish to protect the wood from the elements.
Step 8: Add Decorative Elements
If desired, add decorative elements such as handles, small nails, or decorative strips of wood to enhance the aesthetic of your lantern. You can also paint or decorate the wood to match your home’s style.
Step 9: Install the Candle
Finally, place the candle inside the lantern. A small tea light or pillar candle works best. If using a tea light, it is often helpful to place it on a small piece of metal or glass to catch any wax drips.
Step 10: Enjoy Your Wooden Candle Lantern
Once completed, your wooden lantern with glass inserts is ready to use! It will provide a warm, cozy glow when the candle is lit and will be a beautiful addition to your home decor.
For detailed step-by-step woodworking tutorials and more projects, check out Teds Woodworking Course here.