DIY Paper Lantern Craft: A Step-by-Step Guide for Kids

Updated at: 24/03/2025

Let's get crafty! Paper lanterns are a delightful and versatile craft project, perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to any room, party, or even a backyard gathering. They're surprisingly simple to make, requiring only a few basic materials readily available in most homes, making this a fantastic activity for children of all ages (with a little adult supervision, of course!). Imagine the satisfaction of creating something beautiful with your own hands, and the pride that comes with displaying your handmade masterpiece. The vibrant colours and delicate glow of these lanterns are sure to bring joy and a spark of creativity to the whole family.

This fun and engaging DIY project is ideal for rainy afternoons or as a creative party activity. The simple techniques involved make it accessible to even the youngest crafters, while offering enough scope for personalization to keep older children entertained. Get ready to unleash your inner artist as we delve into a step-by-step guide that will illuminate your way to crafting stunning paper lanterns.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Colored paper
  • Scissors
  • Glue stick
  • E6000 glue
  • White flat back beads
  • 4mm clear rhinestones
  • Toothpick
  • Paper lantern
Safety Guidelines
  • Adult supervision is required at all times, especially when using scissors and glue.
  • Keep candles and open flames away from the finished lanterns to prevent fire hazards.
  • Be mindful of sharp edges on the paper or any tools used during the crafting process.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Create Templates

    • Create flower, leaf, and bird templates.
    Create flower, leaf, and bird templates.
    Create Templates

  2. Cut Out Shapes

    • Cut out multiple shapes from colored paper using the templates. Fold the paper in half to make cutting easier and ensure symmetry.
    Cut out multiple shapes from colored paper using the templates. Fold the paper in half to make cutting easier and ensure symmetry.
    Cut Out Shapes

  3. Shape and Assemble Flowers

    • Shape the flower petals and leaves to make them look more natural.
    • Glue flower petals together to create fuller flowers.
    Glue flower petals together to create fuller flowers.Glue flower petals together to create fuller flowers.
    Shape and Assemble Flowers

  4. Add Embellishments

    • Glue white beads to the center of the flowers and rhinestones to the bird's heads.
    Add embellishments: Glue white beads to the center of the flowers and rhinestones to the bird's heads.
    Add Embellishments

  5. Prepare Small Yellow Flowers

    • Prepare additional small yellow flowers using a folded paper and template.
    Prepare additional small yellow flowers using a folded paper and template.
    Prepare Small Yellow Flowers

  6. Decorate the Lantern with Flowers

    • Arrange and glue the flowers onto the paper lantern in a circular pattern, starting from the center and working outwards. Leave some space between flowers.
    Arrange and glue the flowers onto the paper lantern in a circular pattern, starting from the center and working outwards. Leave some space between flowers.
    Decorate the Lantern with Flowers

  7. Add Leaves

    • Glue the leaves between the flowers.
    Glue the leaves between the flowers.
    Add Leaves

  8. Add Birds

    • Add bird cutouts to the lantern.
    Add bird cutouts to the lantern.
    Add Birds

  9. Fill Gaps

    • Fill any remaining empty spaces with small yellow flowers.
    Fill any remaining empty spaces with small yellow flowers.
    Fill Gaps

Read more: Build a Giant Toy Box: DIY Playroom Organization

Tips

  • Use a grid to help draw even petals.
  • Fold paper in half before cutting to create symmetrical shapes.
  • Curl the edges of the petals and leaves for a more realistic look.
  • Use a glue stick for most parts, and E6000 glue for heavier embellishments.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Glue Application

Reason: Applying too much or too little glue can lead to the paper lantern collapsing or the sections not sticking together properly.
Solution: Apply a thin, even layer of glue along the edges to ensure strong adhesion.

2. Cutting the Paper Incorrectly

Reason: Incorrectly measuring or cutting the paper strips can result in a lantern that's misshapen or doesn't assemble correctly.
Solution: Carefully measure and cut the paper strips according to the instructions to maintain consistent size and shape.

3. Not Allowing Sufficient Drying Time

Reason: Rushing the drying process can lead to the lantern becoming misshapen or the glue failing to bond properly.
Solution: Allow the glue to dry completely before handling or decorating the lantern.

FAQs

What materials do I need to make paper lanterns?
You'll need colored tissue paper (or construction paper), glue, scissors, a pencil, string or ribbon, and a jar or balloon (depending on the lantern design).
How can I make sure my lantern is sturdy enough?
Use a good quality glue to secure all the seams. For extra strength, you can apply glue to both sides of the paper edges before joining them. Consider adding a small amount of tape for reinforcement if needed.
What if my lantern doesn't look perfect? Is that okay?
Absolutely! Handmade crafts are all about the fun and creative process. Imperfections add character and make your lantern unique. Don't worry about making it look 'perfect'; enjoy the experience of creating something beautiful.