Homemade Small Hot Air Lanterns
Homemade hot air lanterns, sometimes known as sky lanterns, hot air balloons or even Khoom Fay, have been used in celebrations and gatherings for thousands of years. While they can be found in use all throughout the world, there are certain dangers involved with the use of sky lanterns that cannot be ignored. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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The history of small, homemade air lanterns can be traced back thousands of years to east Asian cultures. Used historically as a signaling device and alongside fireworks as means of celebrating the Chinese New Year, some hot air lanterns can reach heights of 1,000 feet and travel miles away from their original launch locations. The soft glow of the hot air lantern can be seen for as long as 20 minutes before it fizzles out and, ideally, floats safely back to earth.
Materials
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Many types of air lanterns exist, but each design typically uses the same basic components. Components of the burning element include cotton cloth, aluminum foil, metal wire and melted candle wax. Always use 100 percent cotton cloth, as other types of material may catch fire or begin to melt.
Construct the frame of a hot air lantern from a strong material that's also flexible and light enough to ensure proper flight. Use drinking straws or bamboo skewers when crafting the common hoop-style frame for your hot air lanterns. Use tape to fasten the straws or skewers together to make a circular frame.
The balloon itself works best when constructed out of tissue paper or lightweight garbage bags. Use glue or tape to fasten the pieces of the balloon together.
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Uses
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Use hot air balloons at any type of celebration you may have. This includes weddings, graduations and parties. Some public festivals and other large gatherings also feature small hot air lanterns. Homemade hot air lanterns also make good educational or informational tools by teachers and parents.
Safety Concerns
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Potential safety hazards need consideration when using homemade hot air lanterns. While most materials used in a hot air lantern are safe for the environment and 100 percent biodegradable, the metal wire used for the lantern isn't. If the metal wire ends up in a place with high animal traffic, it could pose a risk to wildlife, livestock or even humans. Fire is another risk to consider, as a hot air lantern could ignite a dry field of grass, forestland or even a home.
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