Creating a Chinese lantern as a craft is an easy way to get the children included in a fun and enjoyable hobby. They will delight in making the lanterns and watching the creations emerge with every step of the project. Here are the instructions and list of materials on how to make a Chinese lantern.

Materials:

• Pencil
• Eraser
• Paper plate
• Stapler
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Construction paper 1 sheet 12" x 18"
• Tempra paint
• Glue stick

Instructions:

1. Fold a piece of any color 12" x 18" construction paper in half lengthwise.

2. Make cuts along the folded edge of the paper starting 1" in from the end of the paper and extending to 1 ½" from the open edges of the piece of paper. Note: Adults can make it easier for children by using a ruler to mark off 1" intervals and drawing lines for them to cut a long. It there are any pencil marks on the paper visible after the child is done cutting simply erase the pencil lines on the paper.

3. Unfold the paper and loosely circle the ends of the paper so the meet to create the shape of the Chinese lantern. Overlap the ends by 1".

4. Staple the ends of the paper together at the top and at the bottom of the lantern. You can also attach the ends together by applying a line of glue along the end and pressing the paper together. It will adhere quickly allowing you to continue to work on the project while it dries. White glue is not recommended since it takes longer to dry.

5. Measure and cut 12" x 1 ½" strip of a different color construction paper to give the lantern additional coloring.

6. Line up the ends of the handles on the inside of the lantern so they are directly across from each other. When they pieces are aligned, attach them to the lantern with a stapler, or glue stick.

7. Squeeze the desired paint colors onto a paper plate. Allow the children to get creative with the paint adding decorations to the lantern.

8. Allow the paint on the lantern to completely dry.

This an easy craft the children really enjoy. They are able to create a lantern without too much trouble while being able to enjoy the art world. They can hang the lantern in their bedroom as decoration or add it to the outside as additional decoration to the patio area. This is also a great craft for the holidays or other special occasion where decorations are required.

Jonathan Pitts

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