1st attempt Luminaries

Hey Natalie,
After looking at them again, I think I do like the larger size, I think that would make your design stand out better if they're going to be on the ground or around the pool. If you're putting them on the tables I would definitely go smaller.

I put the velum on the outside, cut to the size of the bag. I just centered the printed page on the bag while the bag was in it's unopened state and taped the velum on and cut around the edge of the bag. Does that make sense? I tried the velum on the inside and just didn't like the way it looked as well.

Here they are again (mine are small):

ohhhh ok that does make sense!! I see how you did it with out having the lines! thanks sarah!!! I will try it that way! Ya I agree it doesn't look good with the velum on the inside of the bag! Ya they aren't going on the tables just in the sand. Thanks for the advice!

Wow Natalie? Personalized luminaries? I Like it! I think the picture is a good size. I like the one on the left the best

Thanks Rebecca I do as well but FI doesn't really like it so I had to mix it up!!

I got some clear labels today, Staples only had 2" x 4" so I would try to find ones that were a little bigger? Anyway I cut off a lot of the top of the bag with a pair of scrapbook scissors to give it a nicer look? I tried the sticker in two places. The candle I used was weird because it had lines in it, so I would need to use a holder that was solid glass instead...but I think the stickers were pretty easy...

I love the idea of the clear stickers. I was telling my mom about these the other day. We are planning on working on some yet this winter. Thanks for all the words of wisdom!

OMG Christine!! Thank you for posting this! I had kindof let go of my custom luminaria idea cuz it was just too much. I think I may buy something off this site instead! You rock

Christine - those really look great!

Do you have to purchase the flame retardent bags or are just plain white bags ok?

Good question, as I think I would like to do this too. I also thought if you use regular white paper bags would those fake candles that you put in pumpkins work? I know they always go on clearance after halloween and/or christmas. But they are also inexpensive as they are and reusable. Curious to know if they would luminate though....