How to Make a Paper Bag Lantern

Let's Make Paper Bag Lanterns!

Hey there! Want to make something fun and easy? Paper bag lanterns are perfect! They're super charming, and you can totally customize them. Great for parties, or just to add some homemade magic to your house. Let's get started!

What You'll Need:

• Paper bags: Any kind will do! Different colors and patterns are awesome. The size of the bag makes the size of your lantern.
• Scissors: Sharp ones, so you can make clean cuts.
• Pencil or pen: To draw designs.
• Glue or tape: To hold it all together.
• Hole punch (optional): For extra fancy designs.
• Decorations (optional): Markers, crayons, paint – whatever you like! Glitter is always fun.
• Battery-operated light: A tea light or string lights are safest.

Let's Make a Lantern!

1. Get Your Bag Ready:

Flatten out your paper bag. If it's a grocery bag, make sure it's completely open. If it's thick, you can press it flat with a heavy book – makes cutting easier.

2. Time to Cut and Shape!

Simple Lantern:

1. Cut off the bottom. How tall you want it? That's how much bag you keep.
2. Cut off the top, leaving a few inches for a flap.
3. Fold down that flap – that's where the light goes.

Fancier Lantern:

1. Flatten the bag and cut off the bottom. More room for creativity here!
2. Cut thin fringes from the bottom, leaving a couple of inches at the top.
3. Roll each fringe inward – it looks really cool!
4. Optional: Cut out shapes before you roll the fringes.

3. Decorate Your Lantern!

This is the fun part! Here are some ideas:

• Paint: Acrylic or fabric paints work great.
• Draw: Use crayons, markers, or pencils. Stars? Moons? Flowers? Go for it!
• Stencils: Make awesome patterns.
• Cut shapes: Stars, hearts, whatever you like! Just leave enough to hold it together.
• Glitter: Always a good idea!
• Collage: Use bits of paper or magazines.
• Ribbon and Lace: For a fancy touch.

4. Put It All Together:

For the simple lantern, just fold and tape/glue the top flap. The fancier one? Carefully shape the fringes and secure the top with a tiny bit of tape or glue. This keeps it from falling apart.

5. Add the Light!

Pop in your battery-operated light. Make sure it's secure!

Tips & Tricks:

• Try different bags!
• Get creative with decorations!
• Kids can help! (But supervise with scissors and glue.)
• Use a template if you need help designing.
• Seal the edges well to keep the light inside.
• Safety first! Always use battery-operated lights.

Other Fun Ideas:

• Star Lanterns: Cut out star shapes – sparkly!
• Flower Lanterns: Romantic and pretty.
• Geometric Lanterns: Modern and chic.
• Seasonal Lanterns: Pumpkins for Halloween, snowflakes for Christmas!
• Layered Lanterns: Make a few smaller ones and stack them!

The End!

Making paper bag lanterns is easy and fun. They add a warm, personalized touch to any space. Have fun crafting!

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