Paper Lantern Centerpieces: DIY Guide

By James Cooper · October 3, 2026

Why Paper Lanterns Make Great Centerpieces

Paper lanterns are inexpensive, lightweight, and create instant ambiance. You can make a set of 6 centerpieces for under 15 dollars.

Materials Needed

12-inch round paper lanterns in white or colored, about 1 dollar each at party stores
LED tea lights that are battery operated and flame-safe
Decorative tissue paper or crepe paper
Scissors, glue stick, ribbon
Optional: paint pens, pressed flowers, gold leaf

Method 1: Layered Tissue Lantern

Cut tissue paper into 3-inch circles in 2-3 colors. Glue them overlapping around the lantern in a scale pattern. The layered effect looks like artichoke petals when lit from inside.

Method 2: Gold-Edged Lantern

Apply gold leaf or gold paint pen around the top and bottom rims of white lanterns. Add a single gold ribbon hanging tassel. Elegant and minimal.

Method 3: Pressed Flower Lantern

Collect flat pressed flowers like pansies and ferns. Glue them to the outside of white lanterns with Mod Podge. The flowers cast beautiful shadows when the LED light is inside.