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Sitting on a patio can be a peaceful way to unwind after a long day. And if you want to enhance the atmosphere, it is necessary to include soft lighting. Turns out, you can make glittery patio lanterns using simple things like balloons, tissue paper, and glue. Papier-mâché is the main technique involved, but what makes this DIY special is that the lanterns are decorated with beautiful pressed flowers after being molded onto balloons. Shared by DIYer NorthwoodsfolkThis project is both inexpensive and very creative. Plus, who doesn’t love an excuse to dig up some old balloons?
Before diving into making the luminaires, there are a few preparations to check off. You will need a handful of pressed flowers for each lantern. If you don’t have one, consider trying DIY flower pressing To prepare some blooms. Simply place a sheet of newspaper inside a sturdy book, place the flowers underneath and sandwich them between the pages. Then, add more weight on top and let the flowers dry thoroughly. Note that this may take at least two weeks.
When it comes to glue, you can grab an adhesive Mod Podge for the project. However, a DIYer inspired by nature chose to create a biodegradable adhesive from scratch. It involves mixing ¾ cup of water, one tablespoon of vinegar and two tablespoons of corn syrup in a pot. While waiting for it to boil, mix two tablespoons of cornstarch with ¾ cup of water in a bowl. Add it very slowly to the pot, bring it back to the boil, then remove it from the heat after a minute. Once the mixture cools, you will have glue that you can use to make lanterns.
Here’s how to use balloons to make an elegant lantern
The first step is to blow up your balloons until they are partially filled (about three quarters of the way). Tie the pieces of string at their ends, then set them inside the bowl with their necks facing down. One at a time, paint a layer of glue on the balloon and attach strips of old tissue paper. Keep in mind that, like any papier-maché project, it will probably get a little messy. Continue until your balloon is completely covered with a few layers of paper. Next, adhere your pressed flowers to the surface of the balloon and seal it in place with extra glue. When you are done move on to the other balloons.
The lantern will need plenty of time to dry. Find a place in your home where you can hang them by their strings. Check again after a day or two and take them down once they have hardened. Now you can pop the balloon with a pin and remove the rubber material. What you will be left with is A stunning, flower-covered patio lantern. To make hangers for them, just add holes in their top sides and attach pieces of twine.
@northwoodsfolk I’ve been wanting to try this ever since I saw @littlepinelearners make it years ago! I tried several times to get them to make it over the bowl to replace the balloon, but each attempt failed. So I decided to tie the balloon in a way that we could use it multiple times (as long as it didn’t pop and we could dispose of it properly.) I also used my favorite clear glue recipe for this and it worked just fine, allowing it to be completely compostable 🙌 If you didn’t know, Modgra Pods are not suitable. I love being able to make nature crafts that can be given back to nature! You may want to start with a partially inflated balloon that is twisted and clipped or tied with string. Layer the clear glue I shared about (let me know if you can’t find it) and pieces of recycled tissue paper. Do this a few times until there are a few layers. Then paste on your pressed florals, finishing with another layer of glue. You may need to do this twice to make sure they don’t lift. Hang and let dry until completely hard. Then slowly deflate the balloon and save it for your next one. Punch holes on two opposite sides and thread a string through each to make a handle. It’s easy! Think you’ll try this? I’d love to hear! And if you do, it means a lot to me if you like, save and share it so others can enjoy it too! ❤️❤️❤️
While these DIY luminaires should not be left in the rain, apply a sealer such as Rust-Oleum clear spray paint Can help them last longer on the patio. Finally, place a battery-operated tealight or fairy light in each for illumination — never use real candles! The lantern should add a magical touch to your patio when lit. Not to mention, they will look great during the day too. It’s also an awesome project if you’re looking for one Think outdoor partiesBecause lanterns can help set the mood.
