Making a paper lantern is a fun and simple craft! Here’s a step-by-step guide to create a basic paper lantern:

Materials Needed:

• Colored paper or cardstock (construction paper works well)
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Glue or tape
• A battery-operated tea light (optional for safety)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Paper:

   • Cut a rectangle of paper. A common size is 10 inches by 6 inches, but you can adjust it based on how big you want your lantern.

2. Mark and Cut Strips:

   • With the longer side (10 inches) facing you, use the ruler and pencil to lightly mark lines along the shorter side (6 inches), about 1 inch apart. Stop about an inch from the top.
   • Cut along these lines, creating strips, but do not cut all the way through.

3. Create the Shape:

   • Gently roll the paper into a cylinder, bringing the shorter sides together.
   • Use glue or tape to secure the edges.

4. Form the Top:

   • Take another strip of paper (about 1 inch wide and the same length as the circumference of your lantern) to create a ring for the top. Glue or tape it to secure.

5. Add a Handle:

   • Cut another strip of paper (about 1 inch wide and 8 inches long) to create a handle. Attach it to the top of the lantern.

6. Decorate:

   • Feel free to decorate your lantern with markers, stickers, or other embellishments.

7. Insert Light (optional):

   • Place a battery-operated tea light inside for a warm glow.