How to Make Luminaries With Vellum
Vellum luminaries are easy to make and can be personalized to fit any occasion, whether it be a birthday, graduation, wedding or anniversary party. The soft candlelight emanating through the vellum sides will create an elegant atmosphere for all participants to enjoy. Vellum luminaries lined along a walkway or porch can provide direction and light darkened paths. Place a handmade luminary on a table as a centerpiece for a holiday meal or celebratory dinner.
Things You'll Need
- Two vellum sheets, 8 1/2 by 11 inches
- Scissors
- Stencil
- Cardboard
- Mat knife or craft knife
- Hole punch
- Sponge
- Ink pad
- Double-sided tape or glue
- Candle
- Candle holder
Instructions
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1
Place the sheets of vellum on a flat working surface. Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut both vellum sheets in half crosswise. You should now have four pieces of vellum 5 1/2 inches wide by 8 1/2 inches long.
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2
Use stencils to draw stars, circles, letters, leaves or other images in the upper center portion of each vellum piece. Place the vellum on a piece of cardboard and use a mat or craft knife to cut out each shape. Cut slowly and carefully to avoid making a mistake.
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3
Use a hole punch to create decorative circles around your images. Create a colorful design on the vellum pieces by using a dry sponge and ink pad. Place the sponge on the ink pad, then stipple the surface of the velum evenly to form a design.
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4
Fold both lengthwise edges inward 1/2 inch on two of the vellum pieces. Apply double-sided tape or glue to the 1/2-inch flaps and glue them to the back of the lengthwise edges of the front and back vellum pieces. Place your completed luminary over the top of a lighted candle in a candle holder.
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Tips & Warnings
Try create a design on the computer and printing it onto the vellum before you cut it apart.
Create a round luminary by gluing the crosswise edges of a single vellum sheet together.
Use electric tea lights instead of burning candles to eliminate fire hazards.
Never leave luminaries containing burning candles unattended.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
