If you’re looking for a super fun and affordable way to jazz up your next event, making DIY paper lanterns is the way to go. Whether you’re throwing a garden party, getting crafty for a birthday, or just want to brighten up your living room, these little lanterns add the perfect cozy vibe. Don’t worry – it’s way easier than you think! In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make these cute lanterns using simple materials you probably already have around the house. Let’s get crafty!
DIY Paper Lanterns Inspo
The final product:
DIY Paper Lanterns Supplies
Each 38″ lantern uses around 500 coffee filters and takes about 2 hours to make. Pro tip: grab your coffee filters, lanterns, and hot glue sticks in bulk to make the process a lot easier (I’ve linked where I got mine here).
- Coffee Filters
- Paper Lanterns (lots of size options)
- Hot glue guns + hot glue sticks
Our crafty party…
Time to set up the Garden Party
The Garden Party
We ended up using the DIY paper lanterns in a tent for our garden party, and they totally set the mood! Hanging them from the tent’s beams created this gorgeous, soft glow that made everything feel extra magical. The lanterns added the perfect touch of whimsy without being too over-the-top, and they looked amazing as the sun went down. Honestly, they were such an easy way to elevate the vibe of the whole party – it was like our own little enchanted garden under the stars!
All finished and ready to party!
The garden party was nothing short of magical! The soft glow from the DIY paper lanterns lit up the night, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Between the twinkling lights, fresh flowers, and delicious food, everything came together perfectly. The air was filled with laughter and joy as friends and family mingled under the stars, making it a night we’ll all remember. It truly felt like stepping into a dream, and the lanterns played such a huge part in making the evening feel extra special.
Want to see some of my other favorite parties? Find them HERE!
Maribeth
Thursday 2nd of May 2024
Just beautiful! You answered my question I bought some flowers and didn’t know if I could use glue gun! Thank you! Beautiful!
Sixweekslater
Saturday 24th of January 2015
The glue gun didn't burn the paper lanterns?
Jackie M
Tuesday 6th of August 2013
What lights did you use on the inside or did you use the lanterns with batteries??
Kris
Sunday 20th of May 2018
I’m curious about this too?
Mike D
Wednesday 29th of May 2013
Thanks so much for the idea. This was a great inspiration. I tried lighting up the balls from the inside and it is quite magical. Highly recommended. Here is a video of what it looks like.https://www.dropbox.com/s/dgzdg6ahikz59hj/2013-05-20%2023.36.13.mp4
Blu
Thursday 16th of August 2012
Do you have a step by step on this? Would be great - it's hard to see the pics up close of the process, and not sure how you folded the coffee filters and glued them down to look so cute! Nice job!