Design tips to bring warmth, elegance, and festive charm into any room

Paper lanterns are more than just traditional decor—they’re versatile design elements that can transform any space. Whether you’re decorating a cozy apartment, planning a wedding, or hosting a seasonal celebration, lanterns offer a unique blend of warmth, texture, and cultural beauty. At Dunnere, we believe that styling with lanterns is an art form, and this guide will help you master it.

Why Choose Paper Lanterns?

Paper lanterns bring a soft, ambient glow that instantly elevates a room. Their lightweight structure, variety of shapes, and rich cultural symbolism make them ideal for:

• Home interiors

• Outdoor patios and gardens

• Festive events and holidays

• Retail and hospitality spaces

Unlike harsh electric lighting or bulky decor, lanterns offer elegance without overwhelming the space. They’re also eco-friendly, affordable, and easy to install.

Choosing the Right Shape and Size

Lanterns come in many forms, each with its own visual impact. Here’s how to choose the right one for your space:

Round Lanterns

Classic and festive, round lanterns are perfect for celebrations and traditional settings. Hang them in clusters for dramatic effect or use them as single statement pieces.

Cylindrical Lanterns

Sleek and modern, these work well in minimalist interiors or narrow spaces like hallways and entryways.

Lotus or Star-Shaped Lanterns

Ideal for festivals like Mid-Autumn or Lunar New Year. Their intricate shapes add a whimsical touch to children’s rooms or themed events.

Mini Lanterns

Great for table settings, shelves, or stringing across windows. Use them to add subtle charm without taking up space.

Tip from Dunnere: Mix sizes and shapes to create depth and visual interest. Our curated sets are designed to complement each other effortlessly.

Color Psychology: Let Your Space Speak

Colors influence mood and perception. When styling with lanterns, consider the emotional tone you want to set:

Dunnere’s Palette: Our lanterns are available in over 20 shades, including custom blends for seasonal collections.

Placement Ideas: Where to Hang Your Lanterns

Indoors

• Living Room: Hang a trio of lanterns above the coffee table or in a corner to create a cozy reading nook.

• Bedroom: Use soft white or pastel lanterns near the bed for a calming glow.

• Dining Area: Suspend lanterns above the table for intimate lighting during meals.

• Hallways: Line the ceiling with mini lanterns for a welcoming path.

Outdoors

• Patio or Balcony: Hang lanterns from pergolas or tree branches for magical evening ambiance.

• Garden Path: Use stake-mounted lanterns to guide guests during outdoor events.

• Front Door: Frame your entrance with symmetrical lanterns to greet visitors with warmth.

Events

• Weddings: Combine white and gold lanterns with floral arrangements for romantic elegance.

• Birthdays: Use colorful lanterns to match the party theme.

• Cultural Celebrations: Feature traditional red lanterns with tassels and calligraphy.

Pro Tip: Use LED lights inside lanterns for safety and longevity. Dunnere’s lanterns are designed to accommodate both hanging and tabletop use.

Styling by Season

Lanterns adapt beautifully to seasonal decor. Here’s how to refresh your space throughout the year:

Spring

Use pastel lanterns with floral patterns. Hang them near windows to catch natural light.

Summer

Go bold with bright colors like turquoise, coral, and lemon. Perfect for garden parties and beach-themed decor.

Autumn

Choose warm tones like orange, burgundy, and gold. Pair with dried leaves and wooden accents.

Winter

Opt for white, silver, and deep blue. Add fairy lights for a frosty glow.

Dunnere’s Seasonal Sets: We release limited-edition lantern collections every quarter—follow us for updates!

Mix with Other Decor Elements

Lanterns pair well with:

• Textiles: Hang lanterns near curtains or tapestries for layered texture.

• Plants: Combine with hanging greenery or potted plants for a natural vibe.

• Mirrors: Reflect the glow of lanterns to make small spaces feel larger.

• Wood and Rattan: Enhance the organic feel of bamboo-framed lanterns.

Design Tip: Use odd numbers when grouping lanterns—it creates a more dynamic visual balance.

Sustainable Styling

At Dunnere, we prioritize eco-conscious design. Our lanterns are made from:

• Biodegradable paper

• Natural bamboo frames

• Non-toxic dyes

• Reusable LED lighting

By choosing paper lanterns, you reduce plastic waste and support ethical craftsmanship. Plus, they’re lightweight and easy to store for future use.

Final Thoughts: Light Your Space with Meaning

Styling with paper lanterns is more than just decoration—it’s about creating atmosphere, telling stories, and honoring tradition. Whether you’re designing a quiet corner or hosting a grand celebration, lanterns offer a timeless way to bring light and life into your space.

At Dunnere, we’re proud to offer lanterns that blend cultural heritage with modern design. Explore our collections, get inspired, and let your space glow with intention.

Discover how lanterns can light up your space and protect the planet

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, every design choice matters. From the materials we use to the way we decorate our homes and events, conscious living is no longer a trend—it’s a responsibility. Paper lanterns, with their timeless charm and biodegradable nature, offer a beautiful alternative to plastic-heavy decor. At Dunnere, we believe that elegance and eco-consciousness can go hand in hand. This blog explores why paper lanterns are a sustainable choice and how our brand is helping light the way toward greener living.

What Makes Paper Lanterns Eco-Friendly?

Unlike synthetic decorations made from plastic, vinyl, or acrylic, paper lanterns are crafted from natural, renewable materials. Here’s what sets them apart:

Biodegradable Materials

Most paper lanterns are made from rice paper, mulberry paper, or recycled craft paper. These materials decompose naturally, leaving no toxic residue behind.

Bamboo Frames

Instead of metal or plastic, traditional lanterns use bamboo—a fast-growing, renewable resource. Bamboo is lightweight, strong, and requires minimal processing.

Non-Toxic Dyes and Inks

Eco-friendly lanterns use vegetable-based dyes or soy inks, which are safer for both artisans and the environment.

LED Lighting

Modern lanterns often incorporate LED lights, which consume up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and last significantly longer.

Dunnere’s Commitment: Every lantern we produce is designed with sustainability in mind—from sourcing to packaging.

Ethical Craftsmanship: Supporting Local Artisans

Sustainability isn’t just about materials—it’s also about people. At Dunnere, we partner with skilled artisans in Vietnam and across Asia who use traditional techniques passed down through generations. By supporting local craftsmanship, we:

• Preserve cultural heritage

• Provide fair wages and safe working conditions

• Reduce carbon footprint by avoiding mass production

• Empower communities through creative work

Each lantern is handmade, meaning less energy consumption and more human connection. When you buy a Dunnere lantern, you’re not just purchasing decor—you’re investing in a story.

Reusability and Longevity

One of the most overlooked aspects of sustainability is reusability. Paper lanterns, when properly cared for, can last for years. Here’s how:

• Store in dry, cool places to prevent warping or fading

• Use LED lights to avoid heat damage

• Clean gently with a dry cloth to remove dust

• Rotate designs seasonally to keep your space fresh

Dunnere’s lanterns are designed to be collapsible and easy to store. Our packaging is minimal and recyclable, helping reduce waste at every step.

Comparing to Conventional Decor

Let’s take a closer look at how paper lanterns stack up against common decorative alternatives:

Verdict: Paper lanterns offer the best balance of sustainability, beauty, and versatility.

Sustainable Celebrations

Festivals and events often generate large amounts of waste. Dunnere encourages eco-friendly celebrations by offering:

• Reusable lantern sets for weddings, Lunar New Year, and Mid-Autumn Festival

• DIY kits made from recycled paper and bamboo

• Bulk orders for community events with minimal packaging

• Custom designs that reflect cultural values and environmental awareness

We also provide tips for hosting green events, such as using compostable tableware, avoiding balloons, and choosing local vendors.

Minimalism Meets Meaning

Sustainable design isn’t just about reducing waste—it’s about intentional living. Paper lanterns embody this philosophy:

• They’re lightweight, reducing shipping emissions

• They’re symbolic, representing light, hope, and renewal

• They’re versatile, fitting into both traditional and modern spaces

Whether you hang them in your home, garden, or shop, lanterns remind us that beauty doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense.

Dunnere’s Green Practices

We take sustainability seriously. Here’s what we’re doing behind the scenes:

• Eco-certified suppliers for paper and bamboo

• Plastic-free packaging with recyclable materials

• Carbon-conscious shipping partnerships

• Community workshops on sustainable crafting

• Recycling incentives for returning used lanterns

Our goal is to become a zero-waste brand by 2030—and we’re well on our way.

Final Thoughts: Light That Lasts

In a time when environmental choices matter more than ever, paper lanterns offer a gentle, glowing solution. They’re proof that tradition and sustainability can coexist beautifully. At Dunnere, we’re proud to create lanterns that honor the past, brighten the present, and protect the future.

Whether you’re decorating for a festival, designing a mindful home, or simply choosing better, let your light shine sustainably—with Dunnere.

Make your own lanterns with this step-by-step guide from Dunnere

Paper lanterns are more than just decorative items—they’re a celebration of creativity, culture, and connection. Whether you’re preparing for a festival, hosting a party, or simply looking for a fun craft project, making your own lantern is a rewarding experience. At Dunnere, we believe that the joy of lanterns begins with the hands that create them. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to craft beautiful paper lanterns at home.

Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following materials. Most of these can be found at craft stores or repurposed from household items:

• Paper: Rice paper, colored cardstock, or thin craft paper

• Frame: Bamboo sticks, wire rings, or embroidery hoops

• Glue or tape: Craft glue, double-sided tape, or hot glue gun

• Scissors: Sharp enough for clean cuts

• Hole punch: Optional, for decorative patterns

• String or ribbon: For hanging

• LED tealight or fairy lights: Safe lighting option

• Decorative elements: Paint, stickers, calligraphy, tassels, gold foil

Optional: Dunnere’s DIY Lantern Kit includes pre-cut paper, bamboo rings, tassels, and LED lights—perfect for beginners and families.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Choose Your Shape

Decide on the shape of your lantern. The most common styles are:

• Cylinder: Simple and elegant

• Sphere: Traditional and festive

• Star or lotus: Great for festivals like Mid-Autumn

For beginners, a cylinder is easiest to start with.

Step 2: Prepare the Frame

Use bamboo sticks or wire to create a circular base and top. Connect them with vertical supports to form the skeleton. If you’re using embroidery hoops, they already provide a sturdy circular frame.

Make sure the frame is stable and symmetrical—it will determine the final shape of your lantern.

Step 3: Cut and Attach the Paper

Measure and cut your paper to wrap around the frame. Leave a little extra for overlap. Carefully glue or tape the paper to the frame, smoothing out any wrinkles.

If you want a glowing effect, use translucent rice paper. For bold colors, use dyed or printed craft paper.

Step 4: Add Decorative Touches

Now comes the fun part—personalizing your lantern!

• Paint floral patterns, dragons, or clouds

• Write calligraphy or meaningful words

• Punch holes in patterns for light to shine through

• Attach tassels or ribbons to the bottom

• Use gold foil for a luxurious finish

Let your creativity shine. Every lantern tells a story.

Step 5: Insert Lighting

Place an LED tealight or battery-powered fairy lights inside the lantern. Avoid using candles or open flames for safety.

Secure the light source so it doesn’t shift. If you’re hanging the lantern outdoors, make sure it’s weatherproof.

Step 6: Hang and Enjoy

Use string or ribbon to hang your lantern from ceilings, trees, or hooks. You can also place them on tables or shelves for ambient lighting.

Group several lanterns together for a dramatic effect, or hang them in a line to create a festive pathway.

‍‍‍ Perfect for All Ages

DIY lantern-making is a wonderful activity for:

• Families: Bond over crafting and storytelling

• Schools: Teach cultural appreciation and fine motor skills

• Events: Add a personal touch to weddings, birthdays, or festivals

• Solo creators: Enjoy a meditative, artistic experience

Dunnere’s kits are designed to be safe and easy for children, with adult supervision. We also offer group workshops during festival seasons—check our website for upcoming dates.

Tips for Success

• Plan your design before cutting or gluing

• Use lightweight materials to avoid sagging

• Test your lighting before final assembly

• Store lanterns in dry, cool places to preserve them

• Recycle scraps for mini lanterns or gift tags

Remember: imperfections add charm. Handmade lanterns are meant to reflect your personality and spirit.

Festival Inspiration

Looking for ideas? Here are some themes to inspire your lantern designs:

• Lunar New Year: Red and gold with dragon motifs

• Mid-Autumn Festival: Star-shaped lanterns with moon symbols

• Weddings: White and blush tones with floral patterns

• Autumn decor: Orange, brown, and leaf designs

• Children’s parties: Cartoon characters and bright colors

Dunnere’s blog and Instagram feature hundreds of design ideas from our community. Tag us to be featured!

Eco-Friendly Crafting

At Dunnere, we care about sustainability. Our lantern kits use:

• Biodegradable paper

• Natural bamboo frames

• Soy-based inks

• Reusable LED lights

Crafting your own lanterns reduces waste and supports ethical production. Plus, handmade decor has a lower carbon footprint than mass-produced plastic items.

Final Thoughts: Light Made by You

There’s something magical about creating your own lantern. It’s not just about the final product—it’s about the process, the intention, and the joy of making something beautiful with your hands.

Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, decorating your home, or simply exploring your creativity, DIY paper lanterns offer a meaningful and memorable experience. At Dunnere, we’re proud to help you light the way—with tradition, imagination, and heart.

Exploring the rich history and symbolism of paper lanterns across Vietnam, China, and Japan

Paper lanterns have long been a symbol of light, celebration, and spiritual connection across Asia. Their delicate structure and glowing presence evoke a sense of nostalgia, tradition, and artistry that transcends generations. From ancient dynasties to modern design, paper lanterns continue to illuminate homes, festivals, and hearts. At Dunnere, we honor this timeless charm by crafting lanterns that blend heritage with contemporary elegance.

Origins: From Han Dynasty to Hội An and Japan

The story of paper lanterns begins over 2,000 years ago in China during the Han Dynasty. Originally made from silk or oiled paper stretched over bamboo frames, lanterns were used to light homes and temples. But they quickly evolved into cultural icons—symbols of prosperity, protection, and celebration.

In Vietnam, lanterns gained prominence during the Lê and Nguyễn dynasties, especially in the ancient town of Hội An. Artisans developed collapsible silk lanterns with bamboo frames, often dyed in vibrant reds, yellows, and blues. Hội An’s lanterns became famous for their rounded shapes and intricate patterns, and today, the town hosts monthly lantern festivals where thousands of glowing lanterns float down the Thu Bồn River, each carrying a wish.

Japan’s lantern tradition, known as chochin, dates back to the 16th century. These lanterns, made from washi paper and wooden or bamboo frames, were used in temples, shrines, and festivals. Japanese lanterns often feature calligraphy or family crests and are known for their minimalist beauty and spiritual symbolism.

Symbolism: Light, Luck, and Spirit

Across cultures, paper lanterns carry deep symbolic meaning. In China and Vietnam, red lanterns are associated with joy, good fortune, and celebration. They are commonly displayed during Lunar New Year, weddings, and business openings to attract prosperity.

White lanterns in Japan are used in ceremonies to honor the deceased, symbolizing purity and the soul’s journey. Gold lanterns represent wealth and success, while floating lanterns—released into rivers or skies—symbolize letting go of the past and sending wishes into the universe.

Lanterns also serve as spiritual guides. In Buddhist traditions, they represent enlightenment and the path to wisdom. Their gentle glow is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring harmony to the home.

Festivals That Illuminate the Night

Paper lanterns are central to some of Asia’s most beloved festivals, each with its own unique traditions and meanings.

Lunar New Year (China & Vietnam)

During Lunar New Year, streets and homes are adorned with red lanterns to welcome prosperity and drive away bad luck. In China, the Lantern Festival marks the end of the New Year celebrations with lantern riddles, dragon dances, and fireworks. In Vietnam, lanterns are hung to honor ancestors and celebrate spring’s arrival.

Tết Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival – Vietnam)

Tết Trung Thu is a celebration of harvest, family, and childhood. Children parade through neighborhoods holding star-shaped lanterns, singing traditional songs. Families gather to eat mooncakes and admire the full moon. Lanterns symbolize unity, joy, and the light of hope.

Obon Festival (Japan)

Obon is a Buddhist festival honoring ancestral spirits. Families light lanterns and place them in rivers or oceans to guide spirits back to the afterlife. The sight of hundreds of glowing lanterns floating on water creates a breathtaking and deeply spiritual experience.

Craftsmanship: The Art Behind the Glow

Creating a paper lantern is a delicate process that requires skill, patience, and artistry. At Dunnere, we work with artisans who use traditional techniques passed down through generations.

• Frames are made from bamboo or rattan, shaped into spheres, cylinders, or lotus forms.

• Paper or silk is dyed, painted, or printed with motifs like flowers, dragons, or calligraphy.

• Assembly involves stretching the material over the frame, securing it with glue or thread, and adding tassels or metal caps.

Each lantern is a labor of love, often taking hours to complete. The result is a piece that’s lightweight, durable, and visually stunning—ready to bring warmth and beauty to any space.

Modern Applications: Tradition Meets Design

While lanterns are rooted in tradition, they’ve found a place in modern design and lifestyle. Today, paper lanterns are used in:

• Home decor: Hanging lanterns in living rooms, patios, or bedrooms adds warmth and character.

• Event styling: Weddings, birthdays, and cultural events use lanterns to create ambiance.

• Retail & hospitality: Cafes, restaurants, and boutiques use lanterns to evoke charm and elegance.

• DIY culture: Many people enjoy crafting their own lanterns, adding personal touches and creativity.

Dunnere offers a wide range of lanterns—from classic silk designs to minimalist paper styles—allowing customers to blend tradition with contemporary aesthetics.

Dunnere’s Role: Preserving Heritage, Inspiring Light

At Dunnere, we believe that every lantern tells a story. Our mission is to preserve the cultural heritage of paper lanterns while inspiring new generations to embrace their beauty. We collaborate with local artisans, use eco-friendly materials, and design lanterns that honor tradition while fitting seamlessly into modern life.

Whether you’re decorating for a festival, hosting a dinner party, or simply seeking a moment of calm, a lantern from Dunnere brings light in every sense of the word.

Final Thought: Paper lanterns are more than just ornaments—they’re symbols of hope, history, and human connection. As they continue to glow across cultures and generations, they remind us that even the simplest light can carry profound meaning. Let Dunnere help you light the way.