Things You'll Need:
- Colored rice paper
- Scissors
- Glue or tape
- Object to form shape
- Wire
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Step 1
Decide what shape to make the paper lantern, then find an object that resembles this shape. A round shape can be achieved with a ball or bowl. Square shapes can be made from a small box.
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Step 2
Wind the wire around the shape. To get the best results, evenly space the wire each time it goes around the object.
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Step 3
Shape a base from the extra wire that's left at the bottom of the object. Repeat this step to create a base for the top of the wire shape. This adds stability and helps the lantern keep its shape. If any area seems unstable, add an extra piece of wire, connected to both bases.
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Step 4
Glue or tape a piece of paper onto itself around on length of the wire on the top base, then pull the paper taut and glue the end to itself around the bottom base. If you are using glue, wait until this piece dries completely before adding the next piece of paper.
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Step 5
Decorate the lantern. Many paper lanterns have small designs or characters drawn on them. If you are constructing a pagoda, tape the edge of a strip of paper proportional to the structure around each side to create multiple tiers.
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Step 6
Add a piece of wire to the top in an arc to suspend the lantern in the air.
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Step 7
Provide a light source, which can be anything from small, battery-powered lights to a string of lights.
