Making paper lanterns is a fun way for kids to celebrate the lantern festival, the culmination of the Chinese New Year celebration.
The Spring Festival or Chinese New Year is the most important celebration observed in China. The festival signals the beginning of spring and the start of the new year. The celebration lasts 16 days and culminates with the fabulous lantern festival. This time of year is my favorite time to introduce my students to the fabulous art and culture of China.
How to Make Chinese Paper Lanterns
These paper lanterns are easy to make either at home or in the classroom and can be embellished as much as you would like. I like to paint my papers first so each one is as unique and individual as the child who makes it.
Step 1
Start with a rectangular piece of paper. It can be any size but I use 9X12 mixed media paper. You can use construction paper as well if you aren’t painting it first.
Step 2
If you are painting the paper first, paint strips of color across the paper. Any kind of paint can be used, however, if you are using watercolor paint, crayon designs in white or light colors can be added for a cool wax resist effect!
Let dry. If you aren’t painting, skip to step 3.
Step 3
Cut a 1″ strip across the long edge of the paper to be used for the handle. Set strip aside.
Step 4
Fold in half horizontally. Cut strips 1″ wide from the folded edge to the raw edge. Stop about 1″ from the edge, be careful not to cut off completely.
Step 5
Unfold paper and attach the short ends together with tape or staples forming a tube.
Step 6
Attach the previously cut strip to form a handle.
Embellish finished lantern as much or as little as you want:
Glitter, sequins, beads, streamers can be added for extra BLING!
For more art projects for the Chinese New year click HERE. What do you teach for the Chinese New Year? I would love to hear about the in the comments below.