The sky lantern was first used by the Chinese in the third century as a signaling balloon in warfare. Throughout the ages, its military application evaporated and it evolved to take important roles in Chinese and Thai cultural rituals. Used in numerous festivals year-round, today sky lanterns often signify good luck or new beginnings. Our favorite Western adaption of this is to write love messages inside them and set them afloat. Yes, if mis-used, they can be a fire hazard. But a Chinese sky lantern is quite easy to make. Follow these simple steps and you’ll be releasing your request of choice to the universe in a flash.There are many different ways to make one of these flaming love balloons, but I went with the simplest possible method, using easily-available components that you should be able to get at your local craft store. Here's what you'll need:
Tissue paper
Glue
A ½ inch artist’s paint brush
Thin wire
Birthday candles
A bamboo or balsa wood hoop (or equally light alternative)
Scissors
An X-acto knife
Wire cutters
I also ended up using old newspaper, a tape measure and a ball-point pen. Other optional items include watercolors and brushes, an 80’s-era boombox playing The Greatest Hits: Power Ballads on CD, and a bottle of sake.
If you'r will not buy, you can buy cheap sky latern from near shop.












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