How to Make Lanterns Out of Red Envelopes

Chinese lanterns are an elegant and understated decoration for any occasion.

Red lanterns are an iconic symbol of the Chinese New Year and a beautiful addition to any event. Known as Hong Bao Lanterns, literally translated as red packet lanterns, they can be made from a stack of red envelopes and a stapler, with the number of envelopes determining how big the lantern will be. The red envelopes are culturally significant, as tradition dictates that packed with money and given out during the holidays or at weddings and gatherings, they ensure good luck in the year to come.

Things You'll Need

• 20 C6 red envelopes (greeting card size)
• Stapler
• Staples
• String

Instructions

1. Fold one envelope in half horizontally, matching up the two long ends, and press in a crease. Unfold again. Turn two corners into the halfway line, as though making a paper airplane, and repeat at the other end. Do the same to another nine envelopes.

2. Stack two envelopes on top of each other, lining up the edges. You will have four diagonal lines where the corners were folded in. Staple along one of these diagonals and open out the newly joined envelopes. Repeat this with the remaining envelopes to create a circle of five stapled envelopes.

3. Number the outer corners of your envelope circle sequentially from 1 to 10. Number one should be a right-hand corner, a diagonal which looks like a back slash rather than a forward slash.

4. Take another envelope and line up the long edge with corners one and two, stapling along the creases. Work around the circle in this manner, adding envelopes to corners three and four, five and six and so on all the way around. This will create a semi-spherical shape.

5. Make a second dome by repeating all the steps above.

6. Match corner one of the first dome with corner one of the second and line up all subsequent corners, stapling as you go around to create a sphere.

7. Staple the length of string to the top of the sphere and hang.

Tips & Warnings

• The five-envelope circle shape is the basic pattern of this kind of lantern making. Experiment with connecting these together in different ways.

• Add a decorative element to the bottom of your lantern by hanging a length of string and attaching some beads or a nicely folded envelope.

• These lanterns are decorative only and are not meant to be lit from the inside. Do not place a candle or light bulb inside as the paper is flammable.

References

• You Tube: Chinese Lanterns: Demonstration: Basic Shape