How Do You Make Handmade Paper Lamps?
Paper has been used to make lamps and lanterns for centuries, beginning in China. Rice paper covers traditional Chinese paper lamps, which are lit with a candle. Today, for safety, it’s common to use LED battery or low wattage electric powered lights. While paper lamps are often shaped with wire, a simple tabletop cylinder adds ambiance to a room and leaves room for creativity. Cut a piece of parchment paper long enough to make a cylinder in the diameter you want. Decorate the paper as you like. Use India ink with a brush, pastels, crayons or permanent markers. Stencils can be used. For additional effect, lay paper on a piece of cardboard and poke tiny holes with a pin to create a design. Allow 2 inches to be undecorated at the bottom for the stand. Roll into a cylinder and secure with clear tape. Clip 2-inch cuts approximately 2 inches apart around the bottom. Fold flaps so that they lay on the surface and the lamp sits flat. Turn the lamp upside-down on top of the poster board and tr
