Chinese paper lanterns, dating back to 230 BC, symbolize long life and good luck.

During the Lantern Festival which originated around this time, the Chinese people would gather and raise their lanterns in an attempt to find their deceased loved ones thought to be passing over on their journey to heaven.

Today the event has grown to include the creations of expert lantern-makers who utilize unusual materials to show off their artistry.

Over the years, the Chinese paper lantern has been used to mark significant life events such as births, deaths, and weddings. It has also been used for military communications, and as a show of wealth: the bigger the lantern displayed outside the home, the richer the occupant.

In modern times, we know the Chinese lantern as a quaint and beautiful decoration that brightens our special events and celebrations.

Materials:

8 1/2 X 11 inch construction paper
Scissors
Stapler
Tape
Ruler
Pencil
Glitter, glue, decorations
Instructions:

Instructions:

1. Using your ruler, measure and cut 1 inch from short end of your construction paper sheet. This will be the lantern's handle.

2. Fold your paper in half lengthwise.

3. Draw another line 1 inch from the long edge of the paper opposite the folded edge. This will indicate where you are to stop cutting.

4. Measure a series of lines 1 inch apart starting at the folded edge and ending at the "stop cutting" line.

5. Cut on these marked lines up to the "stop cutting" line.

6. Open up the paper and match the short sides together to form the lantern. Tape securely.

7. Staple the handle on top.

8. Decorate with glitter, glue, or whatever you have on hand.

9. Hang as many lanterns as you wish from a length of yarn or string.

Patricia Jensen

I have a passion for the written word, and have been a freelance writer for many years. I enjoy growing my website, Kids Party Paradise, because it is like creating an ever-changing, ever-evolving online ?book? about a topic I enjoy - kids parties!

As a mother of three, I have plenty of first-hand knowledge about making kids party cakes and decorations, organizing games, making costumes, crafts, and party food, and more. I share much of this kid-focused information on Kids Party Paradise.com.

As a Work-at-Home Mom, my online endeavors not only satisfy my creative side and contribute to the family income, but it allows me to spend more time with my children.

I also trade on Ebay, a fun and fascinating venue to market just about anything. In addition to reselling various items, I buy and sell vintage and collectible children?s pop up books on Ebay. I have become an expert on this subject, simply by monitoring auctions each day and studying the popularity and marketability of various pop-up engineers and their work.

I am a devout Catholic and enjoy practicing and sharing my faith with others.

In the future, I plan to expand into more web sites based on my hobbies and interests.

I hope you enjoy reading my family-friendly articles and visiting my kids party site!