DIY Christmas Lanterns

DIY Christmas Lanterns

For those who attended the 2015 my2angels retreat back in July and have been asking how I (and Shelley) made the Christmas Lanterns you all received, here is a step by step for you all.

 

We will have 4 Sizzix window dies in stock next week, if you would like to reserve one please email me via the website here (or you can email me if you know my address).  Dies cost $26.99 excluding postage which is approximately $7.40.  Don't want to purchase the die but want a kit made up for you, let me know and I will advise of costs.

So let's get started

Cut 4 windows out of sturdy cardboard or chipboard from the TIm Holtz Window Die.

If using pattern paper to cover your windows, glue paper to chipboard/cardboard FIRST, leave to dry then cut out the windows. 

Cut out the inner framework from one of the windows

Snipe two "end" pieces off all four windows.  Bend the other top 2 "ends" outwards.  Ink all over the insides of the windows. 

Cut 4 pieces of acetate measuring 7cm x 9cm and glue to the insides of the windows.

Glue two windows together (make sure the cut "ends"of windows are at the bottom.  I used the hot glue gun, much quicker and you don't have to hold the windows for so long waiting for liquid glue to dry. 

BASE

Cut square measuring 3.5cm in diameter and cut a circle in centre (our sugar beads jar is the exact size you require) - PS: Upcoming blog post is a step by step Christmas Bauble Card using our sugar bead

Glue the base to 2 of the windows

Then glue the remaining 2 windows to base.

Bend the "ends"on the window ledge and glue these to the bottom of your windows.  DON"T glue to line up with the base - you need a gap approximately 1cm, for the tea light to sit level

ROOF:  Cut 1 piece of sturdy cardboard or chipboard measuring 12cm x 12cm - score/bend towards each corner and pierce hole in centre

Adhere pattern paper and ribbon to top of roof (I used our white scalloped edge ribbon)

 

Inside of roof, adhere aluminium foil or tape sheets (this may help reflect your light) or just ink/adhere pattern paper - your choice

 Start to decorate lantern.

I cut out baubles from Silver Bells Carol and "hung" them from our white rhinestone chain.  Also I "hung" one of our Joy typewriter keys

To hide all glue or rough edges spray with Snow Spray, glitter, diamond dust or whatever will match your design

 

Paper I used for my blue and silver lantern is Silver Bells "Carol" available in the paper pack here

If you are planning on making several - we made 60 for the retreat - I found spray painting all the die pieces this was so much quicker

Please contact me if you have any questions or need to translate my "blonde" instructions lol