Magical Light-Up Paper Christmas Lanterns
These paper Christmas lanterns that light up are so magical. And it's the easiest project EVER! Learn how to create this magical, glowy Christmas display in your own home.
When I shared these simple but magical Christmas lanterns on Instagram back in 2021, everyone went nuts for them. So I decided to put together this post about how to create these magical, glowing lanterns! They are beautiful during the day.
But they are positively MAGICAL at night! Keep scrolling and reading to find all the info you need to create these light-up paper Christmas lanterns for yourself!
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Materials Needed
- Large paper lanterns that are hollow inside once assembled. I purchased all of ours at World Market in 2021. You can find links to the exact ones I used below (two of the paper lanterns we used are currently in stock as I write this in December 2023, but they sell out QUICKLY):
- I did find this set of 14 light-up paper lanterns that INCLUDE the LED lights. I haven't tried them myself, but they look like they could be a decent alternative from the photos and videos I've seen!
- Remote-controlled puck lights
- Picture hanging strips (use these to help keep the paper lanterns closed if necessary)
- Clear command hooks for hanging them on your wall
How to Create These Light-Up Paper Christmas Lanterns
You can see exactly how to assemble the lanterns by watching the short video below. You may not need the picture hanging strips to help hold the lanterns closed. Some of mine seemed to need a little extra help to stay closed and some didn't.
Frequently Asked Questions
I purchased all of ours at World Market in 2021. You can find links to the exact ones I used below (two of the paper lanterns we used are currently in stock as I write this in December 2023, but they sell out QUICKLY). I have linked to them in the “materials needed” section above.
At the end of the season, we take them down, remove the puck lights and collapse the lanterns so that they are flat again. Then we store them in a plastic bin with other Christmas decorations.
The puck lights come with a remote control. You can even turn them on and set a timer so that they turn off after a certain amount of time.
I found this set of 14 light-up paper lanterns that INCLUDE the LED lights. I haven't tried them myself, but they look like they could be a decent alternative from the photos and videos I've seen! The reviews are mixed. Some people seem to have trouble with the lights included. You might be able to use them with puck lights instead, but again, I don't know as I have not seen them in person or used them myself.
Other posts you may enjoy:
- DIY Advent Calendars
- How to Make a Christmas Reindeer from Logs!
- Cheery and Bright Christmas Mantel Ideas
- Fun and Festive Advent Calendar Ideas
- 6 Secrets to Elevate Your Christmas Aesthetic
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I love the lanterns. I bought a few, but I’m having trouble getting them open without them ripping.
Oh wow. I definitely haven’t had that issue. Mine opened easily. I wish I could help, but I’m not sure what the issue could be.