Paper lanterns
Paper lanterns are conventionally associated with the Chinese and Japanese cultures. Traditionally, written on these lanterns was Chinese calligraphy that symbolized love, peace and strength. Today, paper lanterns are popular all over the world. They are mostly seen at parties and festivals. Paper lanterns can be store-bought or homemade; creating them at home is a great craft project for both adults and children.
Materials
To make paper lanterns, you need colored or plain white paper, scissors, a stapler, a pencil, a ruler and a string of lights. You can also use paints or pastels to decorate them.
Crafting Proccess
Begin making your paper lantern with a square or rectangle piece of paper. Your paper can be traditionally white or colored. Cut a strip of paper from the bottom, which will be used as a handle later on. Fold your piece of paper in half so that it forms a rectangle, and lay the paper flat so that the folded edge is closest to you. With a ruler, measure about 1/4 inch from the top of the paper. Draw a faint line at this mark from end to end, parallel to the top of the paper. Be sure not to cut past this line, or you'll have to start over.
Begin to cut your lantern by starting from the fold and cutting up to the pencil line. Make a cut every half inch apart. Unfold your paper and wrap it so that the cuts you have made are vertical, and the two ends are touching. Staple the lantern at the top and the bottom so that it can stand up by itself.
Displaying
Staple the the strip of paper you cut at the beginning of the project to the top of the lantern to make a handle. String your lights through the handle and position the lantern so that it is beneath a light. Continue making more lanterns in different colors. Be artistic and splatter some paint on them, or instead of cutting vertically, cut small holes or other shapes. You can even add streamers to the bottom or use doilies instead of paper, which is great for weddings or parties. Your paper lanterns will look great at any outdoor party or even as a decoration in your home. When you're done, turn the string of lights on and enjoy. Using string lights is your safest best because the bulbs are only 11 watts and don't pose a huge fire risk. Refrain from using actual fire-lit candles.
Tags: string lights, piece paper, strip paper, Your paper