DIY Nordic Inspired Paper Star Lantern

Paper star lanterns can be spotted shining bright in Scandinavian home windows come December as a way to welcome family and friends on dark winter nights.

Paper star lanterns

Originally a Nordic tradition, star lanterns are finding their way into homes across the globe, and for good reason–they’re beautiful and budget-friendly!

 

Paper Star Lantern materials

Materials you’ll need for paper star lantern:

  • 1 Sheet of poster board
  • 1 Ikea cord light set
  • Low temperature light bulb
  • Scissors
  • 1/8″ hole punch
  • X-acto knife
  • Cutting mat
  • Pen or pencil
  • Clear tape
  • Star Lantern Template: Download HERE.

How to make the paper star lantern:

DIY Nordic Inspired Paper Star Lantern

Step 1: Start with a template

Print the template. Cut out the star and octagon using a combination of scissors, X-acto knife, and hole punch.

DIY Nordic Inspired Paper Star Lantern

Step 2: Trace

Trace two stars and one octagon on the backside of the poster board.

DIY Nordic Inspired Paper Star Lantern

Step 3: Cutting porcess

Cut out the stars and octagon, including the slits on the center of the octagon (the slits will hold the light bulb/cord kit).

DIY Nordic Inspired Paper Star Lantern

Step 4: Folding

Place the octagon face down on your work surface so the short ends point to the top and bottom of your work surface. Fold the top and bottom edges back 1/4″.

DIY Nordic Inspired Paper Star Lantern

Step 5: Tape

Tape the octagon’s flap to the backside of the top point of the star, positioned above the 4-pointed star and below the 3 circles.

DIY Nordic Inspired Paper Star Lantern

Step 6: Tape the other side

Tape the gold side of the octagon to the star as well. Repeat Steps 5 & 6 with the other star, so the octagon is suspended between the two stars.

DIY Nordic Inspired Paper Star Lantern

Step 7: Add The light bulb – LED

Feed the light bulb/cord set through the opening created by the slits at the center of the octagon. Plug in the light and hang at the window.

DIY Nordic Inspired Paper Star Lantern