I have such a heavy heart today, friends, because we lost one of the good ones in this world. My dear friend, Steve, who happens to be one of the funniest, wisest, and most generous people I know lost his long battle with cancer.
I wasn’t planning to post anything today, but the glow of these paper lanterns made me think about Steve’s shining light, and I thought I’d dedicate this post to him and his incredible wife, Jen.
These were inspired by the Paper Lanterns from Willowday, and if you change up the paper patterns (or maybe make your own), these could become party decorations, Halloween luminaries, or bedroom night lights.
If you you happen to make these lanterns (and why wouldn’t you — they’re rad!), I like to think that the glow might remind you that we’re each filled with enough light to brighten a friend’s darkest hour. Go on — spread some joy today. Life is truly short and we each have the capacity to touch the lives of others.
So let’s get started. Here’s what you’ll need…
How to Make Paper Lanterns
- Paper
- Pencil
- Hole Puncher
- Clear Tape
- Ruler
- Battery-operated votive candle
Step 1: Draw an equilateral triangle (or scale and print it) and cut it out.
Step 2: Trace it onto a sheet of paper FOUR times.
We drew ours onto a security envelope because we like to upcycle around here. And I’m super crazy about the patterns on these.
Step 3: Cut the whole shape out.
Step 4: Tape it together and punch holes into the sides if you’d like.
Step 5: Add a battery-powered tea light (not a real candle, please, safety first) and decorate like mad.
I love you, Steve and Jen. You’ll always be in my thoughts.
If you like what you see here, we’d love to have you join our 7000+ member community on Facebook.
