You can use any size circle. Just remember that the bigger the circle, the bigger the lantern. You can use a plate, the lid off a tub of ice cream, the bottom of a bucket, or any other round object. You can also use any kind of paper you want: regular white printer paper, colored cardstock, decorative patterned paper, etc.
Continue this alternating pattern until you reach the bottom of the paper (the point of the triangle).
Continue this alternating pattern until you reach the bottom of the paper (the point of the triangle).
Tie a string in the top (through the hole and the outer ring) and hang the lantern somewhere to enjoy it.
You can use a solid color piece of paper or a piece of decorative scrapbook paper to make the lantern more festive.
You can also decide how large you want your strips to be. The number of strips will completely change the look of your lantern. An inch or so (2. 5 cm) apart is fairly standard.
You can also use a stapler to connect the two end pieces of the lantern.
If you’re hanging the lantern, however, you don’t necessarily need a handle – it can be hung through the base on ribbon or string.
If your lantern is too straight-edged, bend it a bit. It will slowly give to the form you’re putting it in. The heavier the paper, the more you’ll need to force it into shape.
Since the lantern is made of paper, only put a tea candle or votive in the center if you have a glass to put it in. Place the candle in the glass and put the lantern around the glass to light it up. It’s best if the glass is deep so the flame doesn’t sear the edge of the lantern and start a fire. Only use a candle inside if you are sitting the lantern on a flat surface, not if you are hanging it or using the handle.
You can use all one color tissue paper, or choose to make your lantern multi-colored. Pick whatever color combination you desire, or whatever makes sense for how you intend to use the lantern.
Don’t make your circles too big or too small. If they are too big, the lantern won’t be very billowy; and if your circles are too small, you’ll be making much more work for yourself than necessary. Aim for something the size of a coffee can lid.
Make sure that the bottom row of tissue paper circles hangs lower than than the paper globe lamp to give it that flowing, whimsical look.
