DIY paper lanterns are some of my favorite things! They are simple to make, and can add ambiance to any space instantly.
You can download the free DIY paper lantern templates at the end!
( Update: After I published this tutorial, many people have told me that they used these DIY paper lanterns for their weddings! It is so rewarding to hear that! )
These 3-dimensional flower DIY paper lanterns with lights are made with very simple materials:
old drinking glasses or vases, paper, and LED lights or candles! ( Some of the helpful resources are affiliate links. Full disclosure here. )
You may also love these new improved DIY paper lanterns: this new set of paper lanterns are made with plastic bottles and LED string lights!
Materials and tools for the DIY paper lanterns:
- glass with straight sides, such as cylinders or cubes
- paper : I used this great quality index card stock .
- I used a Silhouette Portrait – LOVE that little machine! – but it’s easy enough to cut with an X-acto knife
- double sided tape
- to light up our paper lantern, I recommend LED candles or micro LED Warm White String Lights which are very bright, and are safer than real candles!
You can download the free DIY paper lantern templates at the end!
Step 1: Print and cut paper lanterns designs
Print the template on paper, I used sturdy 110lb index card stock such as these.
Cut out the leaves and stems, and cut along the lines of the petals, be careful not to cut too much and cut them off.
Next, measure the size of your glass and cut the excess paper away.
Step 2: Attach paper lanterns to glass vase
Now the fun part! Gently fold those petals up so the blossoms become three dimensional!
Use double sided tape to tape the paper onto the outside of the glasses. You will have a beautiful paper lantern!
Now we can patiently waiting for sunset to light up the candles and appreciate the beauty and magic of these DIY paper lanterns!
Although it is nice to have a bright candle flickering inside the paper lantern, I highly recommend using LED candles or these LED Warm White String Lights which are very bright, and are safer than real candles!
Download the free paper lantern templates below-
Love paper and art? You need no art experience to make this watercolor in 10 minutes, but you do need a toothbrush, wha?!? 
Another set of paper lanterns are here! With colored glow!
Happy crafting!
Source: apieceofrainbow.com
