I love the look of oversized ornaments on Christmas trees, but am definitely not in love with the price tag. I knew there had to be an inexpensive way to DIY my own and I had a lightbulb moment when I saw these mini paper lanterns. In a few easy steps I was able to transform them into unique and creative ornament versions of my own and my tree has never been happier!
Open each of the lanterns and insert the metal piece into the center of the top hole. Pull the lantern up around the metal piece and attach the corners into the white plastic part, careful not to puncture the lantern. I chose mini lanterns in white, hot pink, mint green, light blue and lilac. Once you have them open, begin painting your design on them. I added short and simple brush strokes to mimic the look of confetti, but feel free to let your creative juices take over!
Next, cut white craft rolls into 1" sections using scissors. These will become the top "metal" pieces of the ornaments.
Cut strips of gold glitter contact paper in pieces that are roughly 1.5" by 3.5" in size. You want the strips to be able to wrap around the craft roll pieces, with some overlap on both the top and bottom portions.
To create the top "metal piece", wrap each small piece of craft roll in the strips of glitter contact paper by turning it on its side and rolling the paper around to cover the craft roll. Cut small slits in the top and bottom of the contact paper at short intervals. Fold each flap into the center of the craft roll to cover the rough edges and gently smooth out any lumps.
Turn the paper lantern upside down so that the end without the hook now becomes the bottom of the ornament. Adhere the top "metal piece" to the paper lantern using hot glue.
Finish by tying a generous length of gold ribbon to the metal piece on the lantern for tying the ornaments to your Christmas tree.
Hang your new ornaments on a tree and stand back to admire them!
For more colorful Christmas ideas, be sure to check out the full Merry and Bright Gift Wrapping Party, the post for 5 DIY Gift Wrapping Ideas and cheers worthy Pomegranate Blackberry Spritzer recipe!