Painted Christmas Star Lantern

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Create these stunning Christmas star lanterns, inspired by the traditional Philippine Christmas lanterns. These inexpensive lanterns are super simple to paint at home and will be the star of your holiday decorations.

Christmas painted lanterns -- make these gorgeous lanterns inspired by the Philippine Christmas lantern tradition.

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How To Make A Christmas Star Lantern

It is the last day of Craft Lightning, and I am ending it with a gorgeous painted Christmas star lantern. This lantern has become one of my favorite projects of this year because it looks expensive but is made with inexpensive supplies.

When it comes to creating these lanterns, the project is similar to our stained glass ornaments. However, in this case, the lanterns can be hung either throughout your home or outside. Plus, they would look beautiful with our Christmas mason jar candles or even our DIY navity scene jars with tea lights.

Finally, if you have missed any of the Craft Lightning fun this week, be sure to check out the quick holiday crafts from day 1, day 2, day 3, and day 4. Just a note that this post is a part of my design team status with DecoArt, where I am compensated for my participation. All projects and opinions are my own, however.

Supplies Needed To Make A Christmas Star Lantern

Glass Hanging Star Candle Lantern
Frost gloss enamels in Red, Gold, and Green
Paint brush
Tea light candle
Rubbing alcohol
Screwriver

Step 1: Remove Panes Of Glass From Lanterns

The panes of the lanterns are held in by small tabs similar to a picture frame. You can use a small screwdriver to pry up those tabs and remove each pane of glass.

Step 2: Clean Panes Of Glass With Rubbing Alcohol

I kept the sides together as I removed them, just so everything went back the same way as it came out. Lay the pieces smooth side down, as we will be painting the textured side. Clean the textured side with some rubbing alcohol and allow it to dry completely.

Step 3: Paint & Bake Panes Of Glass

Use the Frost Gloss Enamels to paint each piece. These paints will dry somewhat translucent, so there will be color, but the light can still shine through. I had to do two coats on each piece and three coats on the red. Allow to dry completely between coats. You can bake the pieces according to the package directions as well to make sure the paint is permanently on the glass.

Step 4: Insert Panes Of Glass Back Into Lantern

Then just use your screwdriver to insert the pieces back into the lantern and secure them with the small tabs. Add your tea light to the inside of your completed Christmas star lantern.

I was inspired to make these great lanterns when my friend Jessica, with Mad in Crafts, mentioned to me the beauty of the Philippine Christmas stars or parols. These gorgeous hand-painted stars are a Christmas tradition there and are so colorful and unique. This is a very simple version compared to some of the ones created there. Be sure to do a Google image search so you can be amazed as well. My small version will have to do for my home decor, but they will remind me of the gorgeous images every day this holiday season.

The stars come with the chain to hang them. I think these would be great outdoors or inside as decor this holiday season. Be sure to pick a few of these up and spend a few minutes painting. You can choose to paint them like mine or vary the colors for your own version. Either way, these Christmas star lanterns will shine in your home this holiday season!

Tips and Tricks for Christmas Star Lantern

Now that you’ve seen this Christmas star lantern, are you ready to make your own? Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure your project goes as smoothly as possible!

Find Your Favorite Star Lantern – There are tons of star lanterns out on the market that come in different styles, sizes, and finishes. So, find the one that you like the most and have fun making your own lantern!
Take Your Time Removing The Panes Of Glass – Most lanterns have metal tabs holding in the panes of glass. These tabs can easily break if you apply too much pressure, so make sure you take your time and don't rush while removing your glass from the lantern.
Don't Skip Cleaning Your Panes Of Glass – After you remove your panes of glass, make sure you take the time to clean the glass. This is because cleaning the glass will remove any dust or debris on your glass and provide you with a nice base for your paint to adhere to.
Change Up The Color – For my lantern, I chose to go with traditional Christmas colors. However, depending on your Christmas decor style (peppermint, woodland, bright, pastel, etc.), you can change up the colors to match your theme!

5 More Christmas Decor Crafts

If you loved learning how to make this Christmas star lantern and want even more Christmas decor crafts, then check out the projects below!