Paper star lanterns can be spotted shining bright in Scandinavian home windows come December as a way to welcome family and friends on dark winter nights.

Originally a Nordic tradition, star lanterns are finding their way into homes across the globe, and for good reason–they’re beautiful and budget-friendly!

Materials you’ll need for paper star lantern:

1 Sheet of poster board1 Ikea cord light setLow temperature light bulbScissors1/8″ hole punchX-acto knifeCutting matPen or pencilClear tapeStar Lantern Template: Download HERE.

How to make the paper star lantern:

Step 1: Start with a template

Print the template. Cut out the star and octagon using a combination of scissors, X-acto knife, and hole punch.

Step 2: Trace

Trace two stars and one octagon on the backside of the poster board.

Step 3: Cutting porcess

Cut out the stars and octagon, including the slits on the center of the octagon (the slits will hold the light bulb/cord kit).

Step 4: Folding

Place the octagon face down on your work surface so the short ends point to the top and bottom of your work surface. Fold the top and bottom edges back 1/4″.

Step 5: Tape

Tape the octagon’s flap to the backside of the top point of the star, positioned above the 4-pointed star and below the 3 circles.

Step 6: Tape the other side

Tape the gold side of the octagon to the star as well. Repeat Steps 5 & 6 with the other star, so the octagon is suspended between the two stars.

Step 7: Add The light bulb – LED

Feed the light bulb/cord set through the opening created by the slits at the center of the octagon. Plug in the light and hang at the window.