Make these luminarias, or paper lanterns, and host your own festival of floating lanterns after the Japanese tradition. During your next outdoor get-together, set these paper lanterns afloat in your pool or backyard pond for a dramatic effect at dusk.
Instructions
1. Fold the short side of the paper over 1/2 inch and crease well. After making this crease, fold the sheet in half, crease, and open it again. Now, fold both ends into the center crease them so your paper is divided into 4 equal parts, plus the 1/2-inch flap.
2. Decorate the paper as you wish using permanent ink or markers. Allow the artwork to dry flat. The smooth surface of Yupo paper requires a longer drying time than some papers.
3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 to make as many luminaries as you desire. Then fold each luminary and place glue on the 1/2-inch strip. Secure the seams with paper clips and let the glue to dry.
4. Make the bases for the floating paper lanterns by cutting pieces of Yupo paper in fourths so you have four 4 1/2- by 6-inch rectangles. Make a 1/2-inch crease on all four sides and pinch the corners into an inward fold. Tape a glued rectangle from Step 3 on each base.
5. Place a tea light in each luminaria. Light carefully and set your paper lanterns afloat.
Tags: paper lanterns, lanterns afloat, paper lanterns afloat, your paper, Yupo paper