Paper Bag Luminaires – The Perfect DIY Outdoor Decor

Paper bag luminaires are simple, inexpensive, and easy-to-make light fixtures. They can be made from any paper bag, but I prefer brown lunch bags because they’re easy to find and look nice when you hang them up. The best thing about these lamps is that they don’t require wiring or electricity; just set them on your desk or table and plug them into an outlet!

Paper bag

There are many benefits to doing this project:

It’s cheap – all you need is some scissors, glue, and tape (and maybe some paint).

You’ll learn to safely use scissors and glue guns without hurting yourself or others.

If something goes wrong during construction, there won’t be anything expensive broken, so there is no need to worry!

Simple Steps to Make Your Paper Bag

Making your paper bag is a fun and simple craft that anyone can do with just a few materials. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your paper bag:

Materials:

  • Two sheets of 8.5 x 11-inch paper

Two sheets

  • Scissors
  • Ruler
  • Pencil
  • Glue or double-sided tape

Instructions:

  • Take one sheet of paper and fold it in half lengthwise. Use a ruler to make a crease in the middle.

Open the paper and fold the two sides

  • Open the paper and fold the two sides to the center crease. Make sure the edges meet in the middle, and press down to make a crease.

edges meet in the middle

  • Fold the top edge of the paper down about one inch and crease it.
  • Fold the top edge down again, this time about two inches. Crease it.

Fold the top edge down

  • Repeat steps 3 and 4 with the second sheet of paper.
  • Take one of the folded papers and fold it in half lengthwise, with the smaller folded edge on top.
  • Open the paper and fold the sides in to meet the center crease.
  • Fold the top edge down about one inch and crease it.
  • Apply glue or double-sided tape along the folded edge.

Apply glue or double-sided tape

  • Fold the top edge about two inches again and press it down onto the glue or tape.
  • Repeat steps 6-10 with the second folded paper.
  • Take one of the folded papers and open the bottom flap. Apply glue or tape to the inside of the flap.
  • Fold the flap back up and press it down to secure the bottom of the bag.
  • Repeat step 12 with the second folded paper.
  • Take both folded papers and slide one bag into the other, ensuring the bottoms align.
  • Fold the top edges of the bags down together and crease them.

Congratulations! You’ve just made your paper bag. You can now decorate it with paint, markers, or stickers to personalize it however you like. This paper bag is perfect for carrying snacks, small gifts, or other items. You can make as many as you want using different colors and designs to suit any occasion.

How To Make Illuminaries?

How To Make Illuminaries

DIY lanterns are easy to make and can be customized to fit any occasion. Let’s learn how to make paper bag luminaries in just a few simple steps.

Materials Needed:

  • Paper bags (lunch-size or larger)
  • Scissors
  • Hole punch
  • LED tea lights or string lights
  • Decorative items (optional)

Step 1: Cut the Paper Bag 

Begin by cutting the paper bag to your desired height. You may use a grocery bag instead of a lunch-size bag for larger luminaries. Remember that the height of the bag will determine the size of your luminary.

Step 2: Punch Holes 

Next, use a hole punch to create a design on the paper bag. You can make a pattern or randomly punch holes in the bag. Leave enough space between each hole to avoid tearing the paper.

Step 3: Add Decorations (Optional)

If you want to add some extra flair to your luminaries, you can decorate them with paint, markers, or stickers. You can also attach tissue paper to the inside of the bag for a colorful effect.

Step 4: Insert LED Tea Lights or String Lights

 Insert LED Tea Lights or String Lights

Once your luminaries are decorated, it’s time to add a light source. LED tea lights are safe and affordable, but you can also use string lights for a dramatic effect. Place the lights inside the bag and turn them on.

Enjoy Your DIY Luminaries

Finally, place your luminaries outside safely and enjoy the warm and inviting glow. These paper bag luminaries are perfect for outdoor events such as weddings, barbecues, and backyard parties.

DIY Paper Bag Lanterns: A Step-by-Step Guide

DIY Paper Bag Lanterns

Paper bag lanterns are an easy and fun DIY project that can add a warm and cozy touch to any occasion. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your paper bag lanterns:

Materials:

  • Brown paper bags
  • Scissors
  • Ruler
  • Pencil
  • LED tea lights or votive candles
  • Decorative items (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Start by folding the top of the paper bag down about 1-2 inches.
  2. Use the scissors to cut out a design on the folded edge of the bag. You can make any design, such as stars, hearts, or circles.
  3. Unfold the top of the bag and fold the sides inwards to meet in the middle. Crease the sides well.
  4. Refold the top of the bag along the original crease.
  5. Insert an LED tea light or votive candle into the bag.
  6. If you want to add decorative items to your lantern, such as glitter or ribbon, you can glue them onto the outside of the bag.
  7. Repeat steps 1-6 to create as many paper bag lanterns as you need.
  8. When you’re ready to use your lanterns, turn on the LED tea lights or the votive candles and enjoy the cozy glow.

Paper bag lanterns are a simple yet effective way to add ambiance to any event or occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a wedding reception, or a backyard barbecue, these lanterns are an easy and affordable way to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. So why not make your paper bag lanterns and see how they can transform any space into a magical wonderland?

Luminaria Bags

Luminaria Bags

Luminaria bags are small paper bags with cut-out designs that allow the light to shine through, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. They come in various shapes, sizes, and designs and are affordable, eco-friendly, and perfect for special events.

Whether you’re hosting a wedding, backyard barbecue, or other special event, luminaria bags are a great way to add a touch of elegance and warmth to your surroundings. They’re easy to set up, customizable, and affordable, making them popular for event planners and DIY enthusiasts.

Why Paper Bag Lanterns Make Great Outdoor Decor?

When decorating your outdoor space, there are plenty of options. However, paper bag lanterns are a unique and affordable option that can elevate the ambiance of your backyard or patio. Here are some reasons why paper bag lanterns make great outdoor decor:

  1. They’re Easy to Make: One of the best things about paper bag lanterns is their ease. You can create beautiful and unique lanterns with just a few simple materials and creativity to impress your guests.
  2. They’re Affordable: Paper bag lanterns are affordable compared to other outdoor decor options. You can make several lanterns for just a few dollars, which is great if you’re on a budget.
  3. They’re Customizable: Another great thing about paper bag lanterns is how customizable they are. You can create lanterns in any size or shape and decorate them with paint, markers, stickers, or anything else.
  4. They Create a Warm and Inviting Atmosphere: When you light up paper bag lanterns, they emit a warm and inviting glow that can set the mood for your outdoor event. They’re perfect for weddings, barbecues, and backyard parties.
  5. They’re Eco-Friendly: Unlike other outdoor lighting options that require electricity or batteries, paper bag lanterns are completely eco-friendly. They’re made from biodegradable materials and can be recycled after use.

How to Make Your Own DIY Luminaries for Any Occasion?

DIY luminaries are a great way to add warmth and ambiance to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or a wedding or want to add cozy lighting to your home, making your luminaries is easy and fun. Here’s how to get started:

Materials:

  • Glass jars or paper bags
  • Scissors
  • Ruler
  • Pencil
  • LED tea lights or votive candles
  • Decorative items (optional)

Instructions:

  1. If you’re using glass jars, clean them and remove any labels. If you’re using paper bags, skip to step 2.
  2. Use the ruler and pencil to mark where you want to cut out your design on the paper bag.
  3. Use the scissors to cut out the design on the paper bag carefully.
  4. If you’re using glass jars, you can add some decorative items to the outside of the jar, such as glitter or ribbon.
  5. Insert an LED tea light or votive candle into the jar or bag.
  6. Repeat steps 2-5 to create as many luminaries as you need.

Examples Of DIY Luminaries To Transform Any Space

DIY luminaries are versatile and can be customized for any occasion or decor. You can use different types of glass jars, such as mason jars or wine bottles, and decorate them with paint or stencils. You can also experiment with different types of paper bags, such as colored or patterned bags.

When it comes to lighting, LED tea lights or votive candles are the safest options, as they won’t pose a fire hazard. You can also use battery-operated fairy lights for a more whimsical effect.

Tin Can Luminaries

Tin Can Luminaries

Clean and empty tin cans can be transformed into beautiful luminaries with just a few simple steps. Use a hammer and nail to punch holes in the sides of the can, creating a pattern or design. Place an LED tea light or votive candle inside and enjoy the warm glow.

Flower Petal Luminaries

Flower Petal Luminaries

This is a great spring or summer event option. Collect flower petals from your garden or a local florist and glue them onto the outside of a glass jar. Place an LED tea light or votive candle inside and enjoy the beautiful and fragrant glow.

Wine Bottle Luminaries

Wine Bottle Luminaries

Empty wine bottles can be transformed into elegant luminaries with some paint and creativity. Use painter’s tape to create a design on the outside of the bottle, then paint the bottle with glass paint. Once the paint has dried, remove the tape and place an LED tea light or votive candle inside.

Photo Luminaries

Photo Luminaries

This is a great option for a wedding or other special occasion. Print out photos of the happy couple or the guest of honor, and attach them to the outside of a glass jar using clear tape. Place an LED tea light or votive candle inside and enjoy the personalized and intimate glow.

FAQs

Can you use regular paper bags for luminaries?

Yes, regular paper bags can be used to make luminaries. However, it’s important to use caution and never leave them unattended while lit, as they can be a fire hazard. LED lights are a safer alternative to traditional candles for this type of project.

What type of paper is used for paper bags?

The most common type of paper used for making paper bags is kraft paper, a strong, durable, and brown-colored paper made from wood pulp. However, some paper bags may be made from recycled materials or other paper types.

Do paper lanterns fly?

Paper lanterns can fly if designed specifically for this purpose and are released in an open space with minimal wind interference. However, it is important to note that releasing paper lanterns can be dangerous and cause fires, so it is often illegal in many places.

Leave a Comment