When it comes to Independence Day I’m all about putting out a huge spread when entertaining. And I want that spread to be pretty. But simple. And cheap. My home stays pretty clear of clutter and therefore decoration but the buffet table is going to be done to the nines. This year I thought it would be neat to have some mason jar mood lighting right smack dab in the middle of the buffet.

DIY Fourth of July Mason Jar Mood Lighting

In the end, I got something that was low effort and cost but super high impact. I just wish it would have photographed all of that visual awesome sauce it has going on! But I assure you once you make your own (and it’s so easy you’ll be dying to) you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about.

DIY Fourth of July Mason Jar Mood Lighting

For this project you will need:

DIY Fourth of July Mason Jar Mood Lighting

I purchased two cases of jars for about $15. Go to a big box store and NOT a craft store. You’ll save big money by buying these at Wal-Mart or even your local grocery.

I used 24 because it was exactly two cases and it made a nice, rectangular shape.

DIY Fourth of July Mason Jar Mood Lighting

Take your paint and go over 9 jars with red, 5 jars with blue, and 10 jars with the frost spray.

And do as I say, not as I do. I didn’t realize it but I was using the wrong paint (this kind dries opaque). I made a huge mess of my sink scrubbing this business off. And then I had to repaint them all! Americana CRYSTAL Gloss Enamels <– that’s what you want!

DIY Fourth of July Mason Jar Mood Lighting

Because I decided to use real tea lights I painted the OUTSIDE of my jars. If using little battery-operated jobbies you can paint inside or outside, whichever you please.

DIY Fourth of July Mason Jar Mood Lighting

Set your jars out like so and see your American flag emerge!

DIY Fourth of July Mason Jar Mood Lighting

Come the big day, mine will be smack dab in between some tasty side dishes and some tasty desserts!

DIY Fourth of July Mason Jar Mood Lighting

Along with my Driftwood Patriotic Star and bouquet from Patriotic Paper Pinwheels, I think this will be one totally styling Fourth of July table!

DIY Fourth of July Mason Jar Mood Lighting

And then maybe I’ll move it outside for a little bit of mood lighting.

I hope your Fourth festivities are happy, safe and full of good food and company!