23 Illuminated Lantern Craft Ideas for Kids

There's something about simple tin can lanterns that make for a beautiful DIY decoration that can't be beat. The best part about tin lanterns is that they are made from recycled materials, so they are inexpensive too. Your children will love these tin can crafts for outdoor camping adventures or as a pretty night light for indoor use. This collection includes everything from classic tin can lanterns to painted tin cans for an added crafty activity to show your kids how to make something magical out of a simple tin can. 

Paper lanterns are a childhood favorite craft that we can probably all remember making at least once during our school years. Here you'll find simple Chinese lanterns to more decorated paper lanterns that can be used for any occasion. Your kids will love making these easy lanterns with you, and you'll love to hang them all around your house as cute paper craft decorations. These lantern crafts take paper crafting to a whole new level with their array of shapes and materials that you can use to embellish them. Making these classic paper lanterns is so easy and once you learn how, you may never stop! 

These nature-themed lanterns are sure to brighten up any room, and they're incredibly creative! From this collection you can choose to make a simple DIY glass lantern using tissue paper or you can try something a little different. Who knew you could make an ice lantern? These luminaries are particularly great at outdoor settings and parties for an elegant and soothing ambiance. 

Mason jar crafts are popular for many reasons because they're not expensive and there are so many ways to use them. These colorful mason jar lanterns are a fun and easy craft for kids that can be done all year round. Your mason jar luminaries will become beautiful works of art that will fill a room with a pretty colored glow for all to enjoy. You and your kids will learn how to take a simple mason jar and turn it in to something amazing using unique materials and techniques with these DIY lantern ideas. 

If you're looking for something a little different than the usual luminaries, you might want to try out one of these easy round hanging lanterns. Homemade round lanterns would make an awesome addition to any room and they are as easy to make as a regular lantern! Mix and match styles and shapes for a really unique atmosphere or string smaller versions together for special outdoor lighting. There are so many possibilities to use round hanging lanterns, and they are always a festive way to add some color to your home!