How to Make Chinese Fire Lanterns

Make a simple version of a paper lantern

Chinese fire lanterns are used at Chinese New Year to decorate the streets. They also create an atmospheric look when used outside in a backyard on a summer's evening. You can create your own paper lantern easily and choose whether to add a candle to the inside. Paper lanterns are a fire hazard, so be sure to never leave a candle burning inside of one without proper supervision.

Things You'll Need

• Coloured paper, tissue paper or wrapping paper
• Scissors
• Glue, tape or a stapler
• Ruler

Instructions

1. Fold the two long edges of the paper together creating a fold lengthways down the center.

2. Make a cut in the folded edge approximately two centimeters away from the top edge and stopping the cut two centimeters away from the opposite long edge.

3. Continue cutting in this fashion creating cuts down the folded edge of the paper.

4. Unfold the paper. There should be cuts all the way down the center fold of the paper.

5. Roll the paper into a cylinder, bringing the two short edges together and glue, tape or staple the short edges together.

6. Cut a strip of paper that is one inch wide and six inches long. Glue, tape or staple one end of the strip to the top inside of the lantern and the other side of the strip to the opposite top inside of the lantern to make a handle.

Tips & Warnings

• You can make paper lanterns in different sizes, shapes and colors using this pattern.