Japanese Paper Lanterns

Paper lanterns are an important part of Japanese and Chinese culture. They are made of paper or silk over a wooden or bamboo frame with a candle inside as a source of light. They are usually associated with festivals and celebrations, for they symbolize joy, celebration and good fortune.

Materials

Construction paper

Scissors

Tape

Stapler

Ruler

Pencil

Glue, glitter, sequins, if desired to decorate your lantern

Use the ruler to measure and cut one inch off the short end of the paper. Set aside to use as the handle.

Fold the paper in half lengthwise.

Draw a line one inch from the end of the long edge of the paper opposite the folded edge. This will be the line where you stop cutting.

Measure and mark lines one inch apart starting at the folded edge and moving towards the "stop cutting" line (see diagram above).

Cut on the marked lines up to the "stop cutting" line.

Unfold the paper.

Re-crease the paper in the opposite direction. This will hide any pencil marks.

Match the long edges together on the lantern and use tape to hold it in place.

Staple the handle to the top of the lantern (see photo above).

Make as many lanterns as you wish and display them around your home.

Optional: add glue, glitter, sequins or other things to decorate your lanterns.

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