Winter magic made from natural materials
When the nights are bitterly cold and nature is still in its dormant state, we have a magical idea that you can easily recreate! With just a few natural materials, you can easily conjure up atmospheric ice lanterns – perfect for the garden, balcony, or patio.
A small DIY project that slows things down, incorporates nature, and gently illuminates winter evenings.
Here's what you need for your ice light:
• Natural materials from the garden or from a walk (e.g. twigs, berries, leaves, grasses, blossoms)
• Two bowls or dishes of different sizes
• Water
• A tea light
• Frosty nights
Here's how:
1. Collect natural materials
Take your time and collect plants, twigs, or berries from your garden or on your next walk. You could also use the blossoms from a faded bouquet or a slice of orange, for example. Anything you like is allowed!
2. Prepare the bowls
Fill a large bowl with some water. Then place a smaller bowl in the center. Weigh down the smaller bowl, for example with cutlery or a stone. Tip: Tape helps to secure it.
3. Arrange the plants
Arrange the collected natural materials around the perimeter between the two bowls. This will create beautiful structures in the ice later.
4. Leave outside overnight
In severe frost, place the bowl outside overnight and allow it to freeze completely.
5. Insert tea light – done!
The next day, carefully remove the ice from the bowls, insert a tea light – and your ice light is ready.
Wintery atmosphere for outdoors
The finished ice lanterns provide a soft, shimmering light and bring natural elegance to the conservatory. They look particularly beautiful when placed directly in the snow.
A small ritual that shows: Even winter has its warm, luminous moments.
If you'd like more inspiration for natural home accessories, craftsmanship, and timeless design, feel free to check out @minderio.home on Instagram.
