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DIY Botanical Paper Lanterns
Craft these lanterns for a fresh, summer patio update, and learn how to press florals in minutes with an iron.
Danielle Boaz
It’s officially patio decor season. Skip the bistro lights and make these whimsical, affordable paper lanterns for a fresh summer look. Dress up basic paper lanterns with pressed ferns using this easy how-to guide by HGTV Handmade’s Danielle Boaz. Just add LED lights to seriously impress summer party guests.
Danielle Boaz
Materials + Tools
- 10'' white paper lanterns
- mini LED lights
- 8-10 fern sprigs
- parchment paper
- iron
- ironing mat
- decoupage glue
- foam brush
- low-temp hot glue gun
- glue sticks
- scissors
How to Press Ferns
First, protect your work surface with an ironing mat (Image 1). Next, take two pieces of parchment paper and place them on the ironing mat. Then take one fern sprig and place it between the two pieces of parchment paper. Set your iron to medium-high heat; when ready, apply direct heat to the parchment paper for 10-15 seconds (Image 2). Check the fern sprig to ensure it's completely flat (Image 3). Repeat steps above to iron all fern sprigs (Image 4).
Danielle Boaz
Danielle Boaz
Danielle Boaz
Danielle Boaz
Glue + Trim + Decoupage
Apply a few dots of glue along the stem of a pressed fern using a low-temp hot glue gun (Image 1). Then press the fern stem onto the 10-inch white paper lantern. Continue adding ferns around the lantern as desired. Once all fern sprigs are secured, use scissors to trim any overhang. Next, use a foam brush to apply a thick coat of decoupage glue onto each glued fern sprig on the paper lantern (Image 2). Let dry overnight (Image 3).
Danielle Boaz
Danielle Boaz
Add Lights + Enjoy
Once the lanterns are dry, add mini LED lights to the inside. Hang the botanical paper lanterns on the patio and enjoy the beautiful glow after dark.
Danielle Boaz
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