Making Quietfire Lanterns - Tutorial

I love making these lanterns!  They come in several different sizes, but they are all assembled the same way. The awesome thing about them is that they can fold flat for mailing or storage till next year!

I create new ones frequently and if you need a little reminder how they are assembled, follow along below.  If you're making your first lantern, check out the Assembling Quietfire Christmas Lanterns from the Silhouette Cutting Files on YouTube or click below. (If you're receiving this as an email update, please click on the link to view the video on YouTube.)

If you wish, there is a slightly shorter refresher video on YouTube HERE.


Use this lantern as a centerpiece or cut a collection of them! Use them as table decorations at each place. Add a vellum panel and fill them with flameless votives or add a tiny plant or treat – do whatever your imagination dreams of!

Here is the short version of the instructions.

1. Open the file in your software.  Ungroup all the elements, leaving the lantern on the mat.  Cut from desired colour. If there are any on-lays, cut them from your desired colours as well.
2. Cut the vellum panels if you are going to use them (don't forget to change your blade settings before - and after!) 
3. Place the lantern face down and fold all the perforated score lines up towards you except for the two shown. 
   
4. Adhere the vellum panels inside the lantern now if you wish to use them.
   
5. You may add any on-lays at this point.
   
6.  Fold sides to create box, add adhesive to the tab and secure. 
7. To create the bottom, fold the diagonal score lines on the irregular tabs outwards. Apply adhesive to those.  
   
8. Adhere this tab to the adjacent (regular shaped tab). Repeat the same with the two remaining tabs. 
   
9. By pushing your finger up at the bottom of the box, you will now be able to fold your box flat. When it is returned to lantern shape, the floor of the lantern will “lock”. Assemble the top by sliding side tabs over the notches. 
   

Voila!  You've done it!  They're so cute, you'll want to make another!
Happy creating! Suzanne