How to Make Chinese Lanterns

In China, lanterns are often used to celebrate the Lantern Festival. During this holiday, deceased ancestors are honored. And most of the time, children wander around at night carrying lanterns to celebrate the holiday. Nowadays, Chinese lanterns can be used for numerous occasions, including weddings, birthdays and other social gatherings.

Things You'll Need

• Construction Paper
• Ruler
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Tape
• Stapler
• Decorations

Instructions

1. Measure with the ruler and cut a 1-inch strip from the end of your construction paper. The result will be the handle of your lantern.

2. Fold the paper equally in half horizontally.

3. Mark a line an inch away from the edge of the paper opposite the folded edge. This will tell you the place to stop cutting.

4. Use a ruler to mark lines 1 inch apart starting at the folded edge and stopping at the "do not cut" line.

5. Cut the marked lines until you reach the "do not cut" line.

6. Unfold the paper and bring the short sides together to make the lantern. Use tape to join them tightly.

7. Then take the handle you made previously and staple it to your lantern.

8. Embellish your lantern with your decorations. There you have it, your very own Chinese lantern.

References

• Chinese Lantern Festival