How to Make Sky Lanterns That Fly: A DIY Guide

Sky lanterns, also known as Chinese lanterns or wish lanterns, are beautiful paper lanterns that float into the sky when released. Originating from ancient Asian traditions, these lanterns are often used to symbolize the release of worries, wishes for good fortune, or to commemorate special occasions. Imagine the mesmerizing sight of your handmade creation gently ascending and becoming a part of the night sky! This DIY guide will walk you through the steps on How To Make Sky Lanterns That Fly, ensuring a fun, creative, and memorable experience. Let’s get started and bring a touch of magic to your next event or personal reflection.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin crafting your own floating luminaries, gather these readily available materials. Using biodegradable materials is crucial for environmental responsibility and safety.

• Biodegradable Tissue Paper: Choose lightweight tissue paper in various colors for a visually appealing lantern. You’ll need several sheets, approximately 4 strips per lantern, each around 12” x 24”.
• Two Lightweight Metal Rings (12” diameter): These rings will form the top and bottom frames of your lantern. Ensure they are light enough not to weigh down the lantern.
• Kraft Paper Tape (Biodegradable): This tape will be used to secure the tissue paper and frame together.
• Thin String or Twine (Biodegradable): For creating the base to hold the light source.
• DIY Paper Lantern Glue / Mod Podge (Water-based): A non-toxic adhesive to attach the tissue paper to the rings.
• Paper Towels & Candle Wax or Vegetable Oil: To create a safe and biodegradable burner. Alternatively, you can use cotton balls and vegetable oil.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Sky Lantern

Now, let’s delve into the step-by-step process of constructing your own sky lantern.

Prepare the Tissue Paper

1. Cut the Tissue Paper Strips: Lay your tissue paper flat and cut it into four even strips. Each strip should measure approximately 12 inches wide and 24 inches long.
2. Create Fold Edges: On each 24-inch side of the strips, measure 2 inches from the edge inwards. Make a cut from the edge to this 2-inch mark, 2 inches from each side edge, creating a small flap at each corner. Fold these flaps inwards by about half an inch to create a clean edge for gluing around the metal rings.

Construct the Lantern Body

1. Attach Tissue Paper to the First Ring: Place one metal ring on top of two tissue paper strips. Apply Mod Podge or your DIY paper lantern glue to the folded edges of the tissue paper. Wrap the tissue paper edges around the metal ring, securing them firmly with the glue. Repeat this process until both tissue paper pieces are securely attached to the ring.
2. Repeat for the Second Ring: Repeat the previous step using the remaining two tissue paper strips and the second metal ring.
3. Form the Cylinder: Once both rings are covered with tissue paper, carefully bring the two open ends of the tissue paper together to form a cylinder shape. Apply glue to the edges where they meet and join them to create a closed cylinder. Reinforce the seam with biodegradable kraft paper tape for added durability.

Create the Base

1. String Support: Take two pieces of string and cross them over the diameter of one of the metal rings to create an ‘X’ shape across the opening. Secure the string ends to the ring with kraft paper tape.
2. Repeat for the Other End: Repeat the string crossing process on the other metal ring at the opposite end of the cylinder. This string base will support your light source.

Prepare the Burner

1. Wax Burner (Option 1): Fold two paper towels into a small square. Melt some candle wax safely (double boiler method is recommended). Soak the paper towel square in the melted wax until it’s saturated but not dripping. Allow it to cool and harden completely. Once dry, carefully poke two small holes through opposite ends of the wax-soaked paper towel.
2. Oil Burner (Option 2): Take a cotton ball and saturate it with vegetable oil. You will attach this to the base just before launch.
3. Attach the Burner: Thread string through the holes in the wax burner (or prepare string to tie the oil-soaked cotton ball) and securely tie it to the string base inside the bottom opening of the lantern. Ensure the burner hangs securely in the center of the base, away from the tissue paper walls.

Beautiful sky lanterns illuminating the night sky, created with biodegradable materials, ready to float during a celebration.

Safety First: Essential Tips for Releasing Your Lanterns

Releasing sky lanterns can be a magical experience, but safety should always be your top priority. Follow these crucial safety tips to ensure a responsible and enjoyable launch:

• Choose an Open and Safe Location: Select a wide-open outdoor space, away from trees, buildings, power lines, airports, dry vegetation, and any flammable materials. Parks, beaches, or large fields are ideal.
• Check Weather Conditions: Never release lanterns in windy conditions (over 5 mph) or during dry spells when fire risk is high. Calm weather is essential for safe and controlled flight.
• Keep Water or a Fire Extinguisher Nearby: Have a bucket of water, sand, or a fire extinguisher readily available in case of any unforeseen issues.
• Use Biodegradable Materials ONLY: Ensure all materials used in your lantern are fully biodegradable – tissue paper, paper tape, cotton or paper burner, and natural string. Avoid plastic or wire components. This is vital for environmental safety and reduces fire hazards upon landing.
• Adult Supervision is Necessary: Children should always be supervised closely during the making and releasing of sky lanterns.
• Be Aware of Local Regulations: Check local laws and regulations regarding sky lantern releases in your area. Some regions may have restrictions or bans due to fire risks.
• Never Release Indoors: Sky lanterns are strictly for outdoor use only.
• Light Carefully and Release Immediately: Once you light the burner, be ready to release the lantern promptly and smoothly. Hold the lantern by the top ring and let it go once you feel the lift from the heated air.
• Respect Wildlife and Environment: Be mindful of the environment and wildlife. Ensure the landing area is clear and that you are using only eco-friendly materials.

Creating and releasing your own sky lanterns is a wonderfully rewarding activity. By following these instructions on how to make sky lanterns that fly and prioritizing safety, you can enjoy this beautiful tradition responsibly. Gather your friends or family, make a wish, and watch your handmade lanterns gracefully ascend into the night sky! Share your lantern making and releasing experiences with us – we’d love to hear about your magical moments!