DIY Lantern Ideas

All are welcome to join the SHOTWELL Community Lantern Parade. You can bring your own lantern or just bring your own luminous self. Here are a few ideas for making your own lantern at home. Here are some ideas to get you started!

Off-the-shelf Paper Lanterns
We were inspired by artist Christine De Vuono’s community workshops in Ontario, Canada, where she used inexpensive paper lanterns available in many craft stores. Modge Podge Rocks has more detailed instructions for decorating paper lanterns at home.

Milk Jug Lanterns
At our Kids’ Lantern Workshop on September 26 we are making lanterns from milk jugs. Here are our instructions created by Becki Gerson. Here also is a tutorial on making basket-style lanterns.

Cut Paper Lanterns
Our frequent collaborator, performer/artist Laura Cohen made cut paper lanterns for an event she produced in 2024. Delicahouse has a tutorial you can follow at home.