Independence Day is such a fun celebration. I mean, seriously… When do we get to punctuate a day of barbecue, beverages and the general joy of gathering with our people, with freaking explosives!?!? Am I right? It’s pretty fabulous! I think we sometimes take fireworks for granted because we get them every July, and now we have them at most theme parks, ball games, weddings… You name it, and we’ll celebrate by blowing shit up! I wanted to do a non-food post and do a simple centerpiece or table scape idea. Since the holiday goes into the night, I decided to add candles. You could make a few sets and place them around the yard or you could use them all on one table and sort of maximize your impact. I’m using recycled items for this centerpiece which means that you can make this without any wallet discomfort! Each “set” is three pieces. One floral and two candles. You can use your imagination and make them in any number and configuration that you desire.

You will need the following:

* 2 pint sized mason jars, one with a ring. I used one clear and one that is pale green like old coke bottle glass, purchased at Target, a little pricey at $9 for six jars, but it doesn’t HAVE to be tinted glass, you can use whatever you have on hand.

* 1-15oz vegetable can

* 2 votive candles with optional glass holders

* Twine, 4-5 feet

* Khaki spray paint, optional

* 1 small bunch of flowers, I used three stems daisy poms and two stems alstroemeria.

Directions:

1. Invert one mason jar onto a piece of cardboard and give it two light coats of khaki spray paint. This will be your vase. If you prefer it to be clear, skip this step.

2. Lay a towel on the counter and place your vegetable can on it’s side on the towel to prevent slipping. With an ice pick or pointy knife, poke holes all over the can. I preferred the knife because it made less uniform holes. I also was very random in my hole punching. Feel free to make a pattern if it excites you! Be sure to leave the bottom intact.

3. Take half of your twine and wrap around the mouth of the painted jar and tie it off with a bow. Do the same with the other half of your twine and the can.

4. Arrange your flowers in a little bundle, give them a fresh cut and pop them into the water filled painted jar.

5. Place a candle in each of your other two vessels

This is it! Super simple, super recycled and super cute! I hope you’ll try this. The flowers are SO simple and the rest is a no brainer! I’d love to hear about or see pictures of any variations or alternate uses you came up with!