How to Make a Lantern for Chinese New Year

In China, the New Year is a happy time of gathering with family and friends to share meals and visit. The last night of the 15-day New Year's celebration culminates in a festive parade, when children march and carry brightly colored Chinese lanterns.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Colored paper (construction paper or gift wrap)
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Glue, tape or stapler
• Sequins, glitter, gold glitter glue, and other embellishments

1. Fold a rectangular piece of paper lengthwise and press the fold with your finger.

2. Use the ruler and pencil to draw lines about an inch apart, cross-ways on the paper. Continue drawing the lines until you get to the other edge of the paper.

3. Follow the lines and cut the paper widthwise, starting at the folded edge. It may be helpful to draw a stopping line with your pencil and ruler before you begin cutting.

4. Unfold the paper and match the two short ends together. Make sure the right side of the paper is up, and attach the two ends securely together with a stapler, glue or tape. If you use glue, it may be necessary to use paper clips to hold it the ends together until they dry.

5. Cut a strip of paper approximately one inch wide, and connect one end on each side of the top of the Chinese lantern with a stapler, glue or tape. This is the handle.

6. Decorate the Chinese lantern with sequins, glitter, gold glitter glue, or the decoration of your choice.

Tips & Warnings

• Decorate a room with several colorful lanterns. Simply make the lanterns, punch holes in the top edges, and connect them together with a string.