How to Make Magical Christmas Lanterns in a Few Easy Steps
There’s something magical about decorating your home for Christmas. My stair landing often looks bare and empty I wanted to add something that would give it a bit of extra charm and warmth. DIY Christmas lanterns were the perfect solution for this space.
Here’s how I turned two old fall lanterns into magical Christmas lanterns to brighten my holiday display.
A Simple Transformation from Fall to Christmas
While searching through my storage room, I discovered two fall lanterns that had previously decorated my porch. These lanterns were ideal candidates for a holiday makeover. Converting these into magical DIY Christmas lanterns was surprisingly easy and quick. Here’s what I did.
Prep the Lanterns
Each lantern has a small door, making it incredibly easy to remove the old fall leaves and battery-operated candles (secured with two small screws each). With just a few simple tools and a touch of creativity, I transformed them into festive lanterns
in less than 15 minutes!
Paint and Reassemble
To give the lanterns a fresh look, I used my favorite gold spray paint.
After the paint dried, I reattached the battery-operated candles inside each lantern.
Add A Festive Touch
To replace the fall leaves, I used a piece of fir garland left over from a previous project.
About 18 inches of garland fills the bottom of each lantern perfectly. The lush green garland provides a wonderful way to add a touch of nature and texture.
I added 2-inch red baubles for a splash of color. These baubles kind of look like oversized holly berries and beautifully complement the garland.
Decorate The Top Of the Lanterns
On the outside, I tied a bow around the top of each lantern using green velvet wired ribbon. This step adds a luxurious touch and enhances the overall look of the lanterns.
Before pulling the ribbon tight, I placed a wire tie underneath it. These versatile ties blend seamlessly with most greenery and are perfect for hanging garlands on stair rails or securing decorative elements.
I created a double bow with a quick twist to keep everything together. This method prevents bulky knots and ensures a polished finish.
To complete the look, I tied a small pick with berries, leaves, and pine cones to the middle of the bow. The addition of pine cones adds a natural element and rounds out the festive decor.
When making bows, they are excellent at keeping everything together without making big bulky knots with the ribbon.
I made a double bow, and one quick twist keeps everything together.
After cutting the tails short, I tied a small pick with berries, leaves and pine cones to the middle of the bow.
Display and Enjoy
I repeated the process with the second lantern and placed them on the stair landing.
They look especially festive at night when the candles, with timers, cast a warm glow.
The (faux) candlelight and festive decorations create a beautiful holiday display that radiates holiday cheer.
DIY Christmas lanterns are a great way to bring warmth and light into your home during the Christmas season. They can be customized to fit any holiday decor theme by using simple materials like Christmas ornaments you already have and different colored ribbons to match your style. Following these easy steps, you can create stunning lanterns that will impress your guests and elevate your holiday decor.
So, grab your lanterns, gather your supplies, and let’s light up your home with some Christmas magic!
Happy decorating, and may your holidays be filled with joy and a warm festive glow!