How to Make a Star Paper Lantern

The star is the universal symbol of hope, guidance and light. It is one of the most commonly used figures in holiday decorations. A three-dimensional star paper lantern, especially one that is lit from the inside, makes a huge impact on home décor for the holidays. The nice thing about it is, it's very easy to make. Here are the steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 10-inch strips of cardboard (10 pieces)
• Tissue paper
• 3-inch bamboo skewers or dowels (5 pieces)
• Cord (thin wire or twist tie)
• Hanging hook
• Scissors
• White glue
• Ribbon
• Lights (optional)

1. Decide on the size of the star. This tutorial is for a small 10-inch star. When you get the hang of it you can build a bigger one with sturdier materials.

2. 
   Make the star frame.

   Arrange the cardboard strips to form the skeleton of the star paper lantern, five for the front and five for the back. Punch the ends of the strips and use a cord or twist tie to attach the tips of the star to each other. Glue the dowels across the center joints where the strips cross. This will give the star the three-dimensional shape.

3. 
   Cover sides of star.

   Cut pieces of tissue paper to cover the side panels of the star. Glue them onto the cardboard strips.

4. 
   Cover front and back of star.

   Use a large piece of tissue paper to cover the front side of the star. Dab glue on the cardboard strips and carefully lay the tissue onto the star. Let the glue dry and then cut off the excess paper. Do the same for the backside.

5. 
   Decorate the star lantern.

   Decorate the finished star with ribbons over the cardboard frame to hide the glue marks. Attach frills to the bottom points if desired. Attach a hook at the top point for hanging.

6. 
   Build a big star.

   Optional: Build a bigger star using bamboo sticks for the frame. Tissue paper will still be the best skin because it gives the star a delicate, lacy look, and will let light shine through.

7. 
   Light up the lantern.

   Light up the star by slipping a light fixture through one of the side panels of the top point. Let the light hang in the center cavity of the star.

Tips & Warnings

• Be creative. Add various decorative elements to the star's points like pompoms, hanging beads or colorful trailing ribbons. Use assorted tissue colors or materials other than paper to cover the star.
• Decide beforehand that you want to put a light inside a big star, so that you can attach the lighting fixture to the framing before you glue the tissue covering in place.
• Use this star as a Christmas tree topper.
• Keep paper lanterns away from fire and water.
• When making a big star lantern with a light, ensure that the light fixture inside the star is secure. Add a brace to the framing to hold the light in place. Hang the lantern where it will be safe from rain.

Resources

• Tagalog: Making a Parol or Star Lantern
• Wikipedia: Paper Lantern

[Butterfli]

on 11/12/2008 Very cool article and great pics too! Thanks! 5*