Keep bugs at bay with this DIY project: it's quick, easy and works a treat!

The best thing about summer and the hot weather we're all enjoying is being able to eat and drink alfresco, but when uninvited visitors (we're looking at you here wasps and mosquitoes) start buzzing around the table and trying to get in on the BBQ action, the idea of eating outdoors suddenly seems less appealing.

So if you don't fancy sharing your tasty burger with a bug or your favourite mojito with a mosquito, we've got a clever DIY craft project for you to try. Using a selection of natural ingredients and classic Kilner jars, these pretty tealight holders are quick and easy to make and are a great eco-friendly way to deter insects from pestering you at dinner. Plus, they'll add a lovely atmospheric glow to your alfresco set-up after dark.

Read on for how to make these in four easy steps, then head to our simple garden ideas for more quick and easy ways to update your outdoor space this weekend. 

• Thanks to Dobbies Garden Centres for creating this stylish DIY garden project

You will need: 

• Kilner glass jars 
• Water 
• Fresh lemons
• Fresh limes
• Fresh sprigs of rosemary
• Essential oils: cedarwood, lavender, lemon and thieves
• Floating tealight candles

Step one: fill the jars with water

Gather everything you need on the garden table or kitchen worktop and remove the lids on the Kilner jars. Want to save yourself some money? You could simply recycle old kitchen jars instead of buying new Kilner designs. Fill the jars three-quarters full with water. 

Step two: add your ingredients

Cut the lemons and limes into slices. Add two slices of lemon, two of lime, a few  sprigs of rosemary and 10 drops of each essential oil (40 in total) to each jar. 

Step three: add the tealight

If necessary, top up with the jar with more water so the tealight is near to the top of the jar. Float a tealight on the top, then light it to warm the water and release the lovely aroma of the essential oils. 

Step four: enjoy your alfresco evening

Place the filled jars on a table near to where you will be sitting to keep the bugs at bay. Make sure they jars are on a level surface and well away from any young children who might knock them over. Make fresh jars every two to three days to ensure those bugs stay away!  

Pretty lighting for evenings outdoors

No evening garden gathering is complete without some pretty garden lights twinkling in the background, so why not add some extra glow? A mix of LED outdoor candles and fairy lights will complement your DIY tealight holders and ensure your space has added atmosphere when the sun goes down...

Read more: 

• How to make a bug and bee hotel
• Painting garden furniture: follow our tips for a stylish furniture makeover
• How to build a fire pit for cosy nights outdoors