How To Make Chinese Paper Lanterns

Read all of the steps before starting.

Step 1: Select Paper, Cut Handle and Fold

Start with colored paper to match the color theme of your party. You can use copier/computer paper (letter size) or construction paper (9 inches by 12 inches).

Cut off a strip of paper ½ inch wide from one end of the paper that's the width of the paper—8½ or 9 inches.

Fold the sheet of paper in half lengthwise.

Step 2: Mark Lines and Cut

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Mark a line across the length of the folded paper that is ½ inch in from the open edge.

Make marks every ½ inch along this line, then draw lines at each mark straight to the folded edge—marking  ½ inch wide strips.

Cut on these lines from the folded edge to the original marked line. Cut through both layers of paper. Open the paper flat. If the marks are very noticeable, gently erase them.

Step 3: Tape

Bring the edges together in a cylindrical shape with the cut strips running vertically. Be sure the fold is on the outside of the lantern. Tape the edges together at the top, middle, and bottom. You may use staples instead of tape.

Step 4: Add Handle and Hang

Attach the handle, cut in Step 1, to one end of the lantern with tape or staples.

The lanterns will stand on their own, can be hung individually from their handles or loosely tied at intervals along a cord or rope hung overhead.

Warning: This lantern is not meant to be used around fire or hot surfaces like light bulbs.

Ideas for Chinese Lantern Variations

• Use larger or smaller sheets of paper to make larger or smaller lanterns. Vary the strip widths accordingly.
• Cut wavy or curvy strips instead of straight ones or alternate wide and narrow strips.
• Tape a slightly smaller lantern inside a larger one. Use contrasting colors of paper to make the two lanterns. Yellow or orange inside red or blue are particularly nice!