How-To

Ribbon Lanterns

Martha Stewart Living, July 2007

For each, you'll need 1 paper box lantern and 4 lengths of ribbon, each measuring 9 times the height of the lantern.

We used satin and grosgrain ribbons, 1 to 1 1/2 inches wide.

How-To

1. On one top corner of the lantern, measure 1/2 inch from top and 1/2 inch from side; mark with pencil. 

2. Using a craft knife, make a horizontal cut at marked point, toward center, equal to ribbon's width. Make another cut, 3/4 inch down. 

3. Repeat process to make pairs of cuts on all corners of lantern (except on top and bottom panels).

4. Starting at one bottom corner, thread ribbon through the 4 cuts on that side, loop ribbon over lantern, and thread other side, leaving an equal overhang on both sides. 

5. Place another ribbon parallel to first; repeat threading. 

6. Give lantern a quarter turn; thread remaining 2 ribbons, looping over first pair. 

7. At each bottom corner, knot the 2 adjacent ribbons together, about 3 inches down. Gather all ribbons, and knot together, about 5 inches down from first knots. 

8. Trim bottoms of ribbons at an angle. String hanging light through lantern, following manufacturer's instructions, or hang lantern as is.

Reviews (6)

  • Steffy Watson
    11 Jan, 2013

    These are really looking cute.

  • DaniDavis
    11 Nov, 2011

    Does anyone have a suggestion for where to buy paper box lanterns? thanks.

  • marthalovergirl
    3 Jun, 2011

    hi so i am thirteen years old and for my fourteen birthday party i want to make these are they hard to make i dont want anything too hard! so i really like them though i want paper lanterns for my party these look so pretty and cute! do they light up?

  • CHoevey
    2 May, 2010

    You can hang solar lanterns and not have to worry about fire hazard or wires

  • aquarious86
    1 May, 2010

    well done so sweet,i will try soon!!!

  • lesleyjoy
    1 May, 2010

    love the idea I am having a garden wedding and already planned on hanging lanterns, now i can match them to my color scheme