Materials you'll need: 8x8 sheet of cardstock
1x8 strip of cardstock
double sided tape
scissors
pencil
ruler
rhinestones
children
These lanterns have been a popular craft for a long time with children and I was reintroduced to them when I read a great book called Christmas Crafting with Kids (available at the Paper Zone). So I gathered up some supplies, my beautiful niece Dyanna, and my wonderful nephew Cody to make some!
Step 1:
Cut from any cardstock that you want one 8x8 inch square (for the base) and a 1x8 inch strip (for the handle). Set the strip off to the side.
Step 2:
Fold the square in half.
Step 3:
Using a ruler, mark every one inch on the folded edge that you just made. Draw lines going straight up from where you marked to roughly 1 1/2 inches from the top.
Step 4:
Cut the lines, being sure not to cut all the way through to the top.
Step 5:
Using double sided tape, glue one of the newly formed slats on top of another, turning it into a tube.
Step 6:
Gently push on the top of the tube to push out the slats. This was Cody's favorite part as they are quite springy!
Step 7:
Tape the handle inside the top of the tube.
Step 8:
Decorate using a strip of rhinestones (or you can use something like ribbon, sequins, etc.)
These easy, kid-friendly decorations are beautiful and versatile. Try hanging them as a garland, put a tall hurricane vase with a candle inside, or they can just stand alone as is!
Have lots of fun with this craft and have a wonderful holiday season!
- Ally and the Salem Paper Zone family
