How to: Make Paper Lanterns

During my future home projects research this week, I've stumbled across not one, but two, amazing paper lantern projects. Both are actually very straightforward and can be made as simple or elaborate as you want it to be.

Flower Lantern

Image Courtesy of Martha Stewart

This lantern is remarkably simple. All you need is a round paper lantern, some tissue paper, and double stick tape. Once you've purchased a lantern and tissue paper circles, you simply turn the lantern upside down and attach the tissue paper, layer by layer, up the lantern.

Image Courtesy of Martha Stewart

I haven't made this one yet, but when I do, I think I'll have a stapler on hand as well because it might secure better than the double stick tape.

Origami Balloon Lanterns

 Image Courtesy of {frolic!}

While this project requires some origami skill, the only supplies you'll need are pretty paper, a string of white Christmas lights, and some thin string or wire.

1.  Cut your paper into 9" x 9" squares (or whatever size you desire but this size will give you fairly large lanterns). You can use gift wrap, wall paper (perhaps if you really wanted to coordinate a room), or just purchase pre-cut origami paper. 
2. Follow this simple tutorial for forming your balloon lanterns. 
3. In the hole used to blow up the balloon, insert one of the lights. 
4. Pierce four small holes near the hole, two on each side of it. Sew the string through one pair of the holes, wrap it around the base of the light, sew it through the other pair, and secure it.  
5. Hang and enjoy!