21 Lunar New Year Paper Lantern Crafts

Lunar New Year paper lantern crafts glow with color, texture, and stories. From classic red paper lanterns to playful Chinese New Year lanterns, each fold and fringe turns paper into warmth.

Lunar New Year lanterns frame doorways, garnish tables, and catch candlelight in the sweetest way, bringing luck, joy, and a sense of welcome through simple, shining details.

I first learned Lunar New Year paper lantern crafts at a kitchen table dotted with tangerines and gold wrappers. An aunt traced characters, I clipped tassels, and the room filled with bright paper lanterns.

That small ritual made Chinese New Year paper lanterns feel like keepsakes, carrying wishes through every soft glow.

Classic Red Cylinder Lantern With Gold Tassel

A timeless red cylinder carries festive energy with a velvety paper body and a glimmer of gold at its edges. Cardstock or textured craft paper forms the shade, while metallic foil accents provide a soft sparkle that feels celebratory without overpowering the room.

A silk or rayon tassel sways below, echoing the rhythm of doorways and gentle drafts. Warm white light flatters embossed patterns, stamped characters, or a subtle lattice print.

The piece suits mantels, entry arches, and table centerpieces. Wrapped with citrus or tea packets, it becomes a thoughtful new-year gift that radiates cheer.

Steps

1. Cut a rectangle of red cardstock, score vertical slits evenly, and keep margins intact.
2. Form a cylinder and secure the seam with double-sided tape.
3. Add gold foil trim at the top and bottom edges.
4. Thread and knot a premade tassel through a punched hole at the base, then drop in an LED tealight.

Accordion Honeycomb Lantern With Lucky Characters

An accordion honeycomb structure introduces airy volume with playful shadows and a lightweight profile. Tissue sheets fan into a plump lantern that feels buoyant above a table spread.

Brush-lettered characters in black ink sit on creamy labels or pearl vellum, adding a refined graphic note. Shades of vermilion, rose red, and marigold mingle with thin cords in crimson or jade.

The lantern pairs with lantern strings and fresh flowers on buffet stations or window frames. A compact box with a spare honeycomb refill and a calligraphy card makes a charming host gift.

Steps

1. Fold stacked tissue sheets into an accordion and mark glue lines in a staggered pattern.
2. Adhere alternating lines to create the honeycomb expansion.
3. Seal the ends into a sphere and add a cardstock top and bottom ring.
4. Letter lucky characters on small vellum tags and tape them around the surface, then hang with cord.

Zodiac Animal Silhouette Cutout Lantern

This lantern celebrates the year’s zodiac through silhouetted cutouts that glow like miniature theatre scenes. A sturdy cardstock frame supports translucent vellum panels, while the animal motif repeats across the sides in an elegant rhythm.

Matte inks, pearlescent foil trims, and inky outlines balance charm with a touch of formality. The mood suits coffee tables, low shelves, and child-friendly displays that spark conversation.

A neutral ribbon and a small zodiac charm complete gift packaging. Color stories range from oxblood and crimson to jade and sand, with candlelight or LED warmth bringing the silhouettes to life.

Steps

1. Create a rectangular lantern frame from cardstock and cut window openings on each side.
2. Cut zodiac animal silhouettes from black paper and adhere them to vellum panels.
3. Attach vellum panels behind the windows and tape the frame into a box.
4. Add a top ring for hanging or leave open for an LED tealight inside.

Layered Lotus Bloom Paper Lantern

Petal layers build a lotus bloom that reads as both sculpture and lantern. Soft mulberry paper, shimmer cardstock, and translucent vellum stack in a gradient from blush to ruby, finishing with a golden seed pod center.

The layered appearance brings depth without heaviness, and the glow spreads gently through the petals. Positioned on altar tables or as a pair near a foyer mirror, it sets a poetic mood.

Gift bundles might include incense cones and tea sachets alongside the lantern. A ribbon in champagne or sage completes a serene presentation.

Steps

1. Cut petal shapes in three sizes from vellum and cardstock.
2. Curve petals slightly and adhere them in concentric rings onto a round base.
3. Create a central pod disc with small punched holes and attach to the middle.
4. Fit a short pillar-style LED light at the core and place the bloom on a stand.

Dragon Scales Lantern With Iridescent Sheen

Overlapping teardrop scales in rich reds and greens create a kinetic surface that shimmers with movement. Each scale’s edge carries a whisper of iridescent film, turning candlelight into flickering highlights.

The form suits a rounded lantern body with a narrow collar, echoing traditional festival shapes while feeling fresh. Colorways move from scarlet to emerald with dots of gold at the tips.

It rests beautifully on a console with lacquer boxes or suspends as a focal point over a dining table. A small dragon charm or knot tassel adds a lively finishing touch for gifting.

Steps

1. Form a round lantern base from cardstock or a paper globe.
2. Punch or cut teardrop scales and coat edges with thin iridescent tape.
3. Layer scales from bottom to top, overlapping rows evenly.
4. Add a collar ring, a tassel, and an interior LED light.

Lucky Fish Lantern With Flowing Streamers

A koi-inspired lantern swims through the air with foil-flecked scales and a tail of fluttering streamers. The body favors warm coral reds with hints of persimmon and rose gold, while the eyes shine from layered cardstock circles.

Translucent vellum bands run along the belly for a gentle underglow. Suspended near windows or hallway arches, the lantern seems to ripple in light breezes.

Neighboring pieces pair well in mismatched sizes for a lively school effect. Wrapped with candies and a small note of blessings, the fish becomes a playful, heartfelt present.

Steps

1. Build a tubular lantern base with an oval cross-section.
2. Cut scale shapes from patterned paper and overlap them across the body.
3. Add layered eyes, fins, and a tail made of thin ribbon or tissue streamers.
4. Place an LED light inside and hang the fish from clear filament.

Red Envelope Window Lantern (Hongbao Glow)

Red envelopes become architectural panels in this clever box lantern. Intricate foils and embossed icons read through thin vellum windows, creating a patchwork of lucky symbols.

The palette stays vivid, leaning on bright crimson with gold T-shaped brackets and a delicate handle. Smaller versions suit bookshelf nooks or tray vignettes beside citrus and sweets.

Larger versions anchor a sideboard with a row of matching envelopes as a runner. Bundled with a set of fresh envelopes and a satin ribbon, it becomes a ready-to-gift decoration packed with new-year charm.

Steps

1. Trim red envelopes to form four equal panels and cut window openings.
2. Back the openings with vellum and reinforce corners with cardstock brackets.
3. Tape panels into a box, add a top ring or handle, and secure the base.
4. Drop in an LED candle and finish with a small tassel on one corner.

Ink Brush Calligraphy Panel Lantern

A gallery of brushwork wraps around this lantern, giving poetry and rhythm to soft light. Rice paper panels absorb black ink characters beautifully, while a slim bamboo frame echoes traditional scrolls.

Hints of cinnabar red appear in seals and corner tabs, lending contrast and structure. The lantern flatters spaces where quiet is welcome, such as reading corners or tea setups.

As a gift, it pairs with a small bottle of ink and blank tags for personal greetings. Light tones like ivory, sand, and warm gray maintain a calm, contemplative mood.

Steps

1. Create a square frame from thin bamboo sticks or dowels.
2. Cut rice paper panels and brush characters or seals across the surfaces.
3. Mount panels onto the frame with double-sided tape or washi strips.
4. Suspend the lantern with cord and place an LED light inside the frame.

Bamboo Frame Lantern With Rice Paper Shade

Slim bamboo sticks form a clean cage that supports a semi-opaque rice paper shade. The combination reads organic and airy, with fibers catching the light in delicate threads.

Knotted cord at the corners introduces a subtle craft accent while maintaining a neat silhouette. Natural, red, and umber hues work beautifully, with the option of a gold thread at the top for a small glint.

It suits entry benches and window perches, and pairs with fresh blooms or bonsai. Packed with a bundle of incense or tea, it feels thoughtful and serene.

Steps

1. Cut bamboo sticks to length and bind them into a cube with twine.
2. Wrap the sides with rice paper, leaving an opening for access.
3. Reinforce edges with washi tape and add a hanging loop at the top.
4. Place an LED candle inside and set the lantern where gentle light is desired.

Double Happiness Heart Cutout Lantern

Romance and luck meet in a heart-shaped lantern with the double happiness character nested at the center. Layers of matte red cardstock and pearl vellum create a gentle translucency that flatters wedding season during the new year period.

Gold edging echoes traditional paper-cuts while keeping the silhouette crisp and modern. It rests gracefully on a cake stand or hangs above a dessert table, sparkling against mirrored trays and rose petals.

A small sachet of jasmine tea tucked in a gift box completes the sweet gesture for newlyweds or engaged friends.

Steps

1. Cut two matching heart frames from red cardstock and a smaller inner heart from vellum.
2. Die-cut or hand-cut the double happiness character and mount it on the vellum.
3. Sandwich the vellum between the two heart frames and tape the edges.
4. Add a top loop and place a mini LED light behind the vellum panel.

Firecracker Cluster Lantern Garland

Paper firecrackers dangle in a clustered lantern garland that suggests celebration without loud sound. Small tubular forms mimic classic bundles, wrapped in red with gold bands and a contrasting jade knot at the top.

A central lantern anchor glows warmly, while the mini firecrackers catch highlights along metallic seams. The garland suits a doorway, mantle, or balcony rail, adding motion and brightness.

Colors stretch from cherry to brick red, accented with pearl gold. Gift-ready packaging could include a spool of ribbon and a tag with cheerful wishes.

Steps

1. Create a medium lantern as the centerpiece from cardstock and vellum.
2. Roll small paper tubes for firecrackers and add gold band details.
3. Tie clusters to the central lantern with cord and knot them securely.
4. Hang the ensemble and add an LED light inside the main lantern.

Fortune Cookie Message Lantern Dome

A rounded lantern dome carries tucked messages inspired by fortune cookies. Thin slips of cream or blush paper peek from small slits across the surface, each printed with gentle wishes.

The dome sits on a circular base, with a low-profile finial and a satin tassel in honey gold. The vibe feels playful and heartfelt, welcoming guests to pick a note during gatherings.

Cream, coral, and red harmonize with black micro-dots and soft foil pinstripes. Paired with a dish of sweets, this lantern becomes a conversation piece and a memorable host gift.

Steps

1. Form a domed lantern by joining curved cardstock panels over a base ring.
2. Print or handwrite short wishes on slim paper slips.
3. Make small slits all over the dome and insert the fortune slips.
4. Add a tassel to the finial and place an LED light inside the base.

Plum Blossom Branch Cut-Shadow Lantern

Delicate plum blossoms climb across this lantern as cut silhouettes, casting lace-like shadows on surrounding walls. A parchment-toned vellum cylinder carries the glow, while an outer wrap of red cardstock holds the branch and blossom cutouts.

Micro beads or tiny pearls rest at blossom centers for a refined sparkle. The lantern calms a nightstand or entry shelf with botanical grace.

A ribbon-tied sprig of silk blossoms completes a lovely gift bundle. Colorways of cranberry, dusty rose, and ivory work beautifully, with soft amber light enhancing every petal and twig.

Steps

1. Create a vellum cylinder sized to fit an LED candle.
2. Cut a red cardstock wrap with branching blossoms and slide it over the cylinder.
3. Glue micro beads or pearls to the blossom centers.
4. Attach a hanging loop or set the lantern on a small pedestal.

Tea Tin Base With Paper Shade Lantern

A vintage tea tin becomes a stable base for a graceful paper shade. The contrast between printed metal and a smooth vellum or mulberry paper top creates a charming mix of old and new.

Finishes range from jade-green tins to red peony prints, paired with cream shades rimmed in gold tape. The lantern suits kitchen shelves, tea carts, or dining buffets, tying together serving ware and florals.

Presented with a pouch of fresh loose-leaf tea, it transforms into a gift that feels thoughtful and inviting, especially when arranged in pairs.

Steps

1. Clean an empty tea tin and place weight inside for stability.
2. Build a drum-shaped paper shade with a simple inner support ring.
3. Attach the shade to a dowel that fits into the tin’s opening.
4. Set an LED light within the shade and display above the tin.

Quilled Motif Lantern With Swirling Filigree

Paper quilling adds sculptural swirls to a lantern’s surface, catching light along curved edges. Coils and teardrop shapes suggest ruyi clouds, blossoms, and coins, set over a smooth vellum or cardstock shell.

A restrained palette of crimson, shell pink, and antique gold keeps the filigree elegant, while a single tassel brings a classic finish. The lantern suits side tables, vanity trays, or mantel mirrors where detail can be admired.

Gift presentation with spare quilling strips and a card of wishes invites personal messages later in the season.

Steps

1. Form a sturdy lantern base in a cylinder or oval shape.
2. Quill paper strips into coils, teardrops, and scrolls of varied sizes.
3. Adhere quilled elements across the lantern surface in balanced clusters.
4. Add a tassel and place an LED candle inside for a soft glow.

Jianzhi Lace Lantern With Paper-Cut Borders

Traditional paper-cut artistry turns a lantern into a lace sculpture. Borders inspired by jianzhi weave across the top and bottom rings, framing panels filled with peonies, swallows, and coins.

Hand-cut motifs in bright red glow over frosted vellum, while pinprick holes add sparkle. The mood suits ceremonial tables or an entry console, alongside red envelopes and citrus.

Color accents in satin-cord knots or beaded tassels bring subtle texture. Wrapped with a small cutting template and a note about the motifs, it becomes an artful seasonal gift.

Steps

1. Construct a lantern frame with top and bottom rings and four window panels.
2. Cut lace-like jianzhi borders and adhere them around the rings.
3. Create motif panels in red paper and back them with frosted vellum.
4. Assemble panels onto the frame and add a tassel and LED candle.

Constellation Pinprick Star Lantern

Tiny holes form constellations across a deep red lantern, throwing starry dots onto nearby walls. The paper gains character from subtle linen texture, while the holes shine gently with warm LED light.

A midnight-blue tassel and silver cord hint at night skies, balancing the festive red. The piece suits a dim hallway, reading corner, or balcony nook.

A small card mentions the star patterns and the year’s zodiac, adding a thoughtful touch for gifting. Pairing with dark ceramic bowls and black tea enhances the moody stargazer vibe.

Steps

1. Create a cylindrical lantern from textured red cardstock.
2. Mark and pierce tiny holes in constellation patterns around the surface.
3. Add silver trim at the edges and a navy tassel at the base.
4. Place an LED light inside and position near a reflective wall.

Fabric-Kissed Patchwork Paper Lantern

Scraps of festive fabric marry with premium papers for a lantern that feels collected and cozy. Brocade snippets, cotton florals, and metallic-thread ribbons mingle with vellum and matte cardstock in a patchwork of color and texture.

Soft edges, frayed threads, and gold tape borders bring character without fuss. The result shines above a sideboard or as a trio in stairwell corners.

Gift packaging with matching ribbon and a swatch card adds charm. Palettes range from crimson and peony pink to jade and inky blue, each panel framing the gentle glow within.

Steps

1. Form a simple box or drum lantern from sturdy cardstock.
2. Cut fabric and paper rectangles and arrange them in a patchwork layout.
3. Adhere pieces edge-to-edge, finishing seams with thin gold tape.
4. Insert an LED light and hang with coordinating ribbon.

Ruyi Cloud Motif Lantern In Soft Gradients

Graceful ruyi cloud shapes float across a lantern shaded in gentle gradients from coral to ruby. The motifs repeat with pleasing rhythm, outlined in thin gold ink that catches the light at every curve.

Vellum windows soften the glow while keeping the overall form clean. A jade-green knot at the base brings a classic finish and a hint of contrast.

Ideal for dining rooms or meditative corners, it pairs with porcelain and glass accents. Presented with a small knot charm and blessing card, it becomes a thoughtful seasonal keepsake.

Steps

1. Create a cylindrical lantern with vellum inner lining.
2. Cut cloud motifs in gradient papers and layer them across the surface.
3. Outline curves with gold gel ink and add a jade knot tassel.
4. Place an LED candle inside and suspend from a matching cord.

Vellum Confetti Window Lantern

Confetti dots trapped between vellum layers create a festive speckled glow, like bubbles rising in a toast. The confetti mixes pearl, matte, and foil finishes in shades of scarlet, blush, and gold.

A minimal frame in white or bright red keeps the look airy, while a slim brass handle offers a polished accent. Perfect for buffet tables and dessert stations, the lantern sprinkles light across glassware and sweets.

Packaged with extra confetti for refills, it becomes a playful and reusable gift during celebrations throughout the season.

Steps

1. Build a flat-panel lantern frame with clear window openings.
2. Fill each window with two layers of vellum and scattered confetti between.
3. Seal edges with narrow tape and add a brass wire handle.
4. Set an LED light inside and place among table decor.

Gold Coin Medallion Fringe Lantern

Round coin medallions line the bottom edge of a bold lantern, creating a rhythmic fringe that catches every flicker of light. The body favors solid crimson with embossed circles or stitched lines for texture.

Medallions in satin gold cardstock swing freely, set off by tiny jade beads near the tassel. The piece sits well near entryways or mirrors, where movement and shine feel lively.

Gift boxes with a handful of extra medallions and a knot charm offer room for personalization. The glow reads warm, celebratory, and inviting.

Steps

1. Form a sturdy drum lantern and reinforce the rim with extra cardstock.
2. Punch gold coin medallions and string them onto short loops along the rim.
3. Add a central tassel with beads and secure a hanging loop at the top.
4. Place an LED light inside to illuminate embossing and fringe movement.