Match colors with similar colors. Categories of colors, like earth tones, jewel tones or warm/cool colors should be matched to similar colored lanterns. For example, a red couch would be well accented with warm colored lanterns, like orange and yellow. If your bedroom has a navy blue bedspread, match it with cool colored lanterns, like light blue, white or dark green. [2] X Research source Match patterns. Paper lanterns come in a variety of colors, and some even have patterns. If you have floral patterns on a chair or bedspread, find a complementary patterned lantern online. Try to match diamond patterns, spiral patterns, or plaids. Be careful that the lanterns don’t clash or overload your room with the pattern, however.
Drill a pilot hole. While you may be tempted to screw the hook in by hand, it’ll be much easier if you drill a pilot hole. Choose a drill bit that’s the same size as the inner core of the hook, not the width of the threads. Power up your drill and drill straight into the wall, making sure your hole goes all the way through the drywall. Screw in your hook. Place the hook into the hole, then begin screwing it into the wall. Apply pressure as you turn the hook clockwise, stopping when the base of the hook is flush with the drywall.
Cut the line to the right length. If you want all of your lanterns to hang at the same height, make sure that you cut all of the lines to the same length. If you want them to be staggered, play with line lengths a bit to see what combination looks best. Tie a small loop at the end of your line. Most paper lanterns have a rigging device inside, shaped like a “C”. Because of this small hook, you don’t need to tie the line onto the lantern directly. You can simply tie a small loop at the end of the line and then slip it over the “C”. Make sure your knot is tight so it doesn’t come loose and let the lantern fall. Tie another loop at the top of the line. Tie the same knot at the top of the top of the line, then slip it over the hook.
Use outdoor lanterns. Paper lanterns are great for use indoors, but they can be damaged by water. Look for lanterns specifically made for outdoor use: they’ll typically be made of nylon or silk. You can find them online, at home improvement stores, or at patio decoration outlets. [9] X Research source Pick a good color scheme. Unlike an indoor area that is already decorated, you’ll have a bit more free reign in choosing the colors of your lanterns. Match them to your deck furniture, or go big with bright colors like red, blue or yellow. White lanterns can give your backyard a relaxed or dreamy atmosphere when it gets dark. [10] X Research source
Hang your lanterns high up. If you have large trees, you can hang your lanterns from them for a cool effect. If you don’t want to hang them from trees, or you don’t have any, buy poles to hang your lanterns from. Some companies sell poles specifically for hanging lanterns on, but you can hang them off of any type of pole, as long as there’s a place to attach a hook. [11] X Research source Hang them from a fence. If you have a tall fence, you can simply tie the lanterns right onto the boards without a need for hooks. [12] X Research source Hang them off of a railing. If you want to hang your lanterns from a wooden railing, you’ll need a drill and some small hooks. If your railing is wrought iron, you can easily tie them on.
Pick a holiday-specific color scheme. Christmas events generally feature red and green, while Easter parties use pastel colors like light pink, light purple and light yellow. Look for event-specific lanterns. Some paper lanterns have printed patterns specifically for holidays, like Menorahs for Hanukkah, hearts for Valentine’s day, or pumpkins for Halloween. If you’re having a party to celebrate a game day, use colors from the sports team your group favors. [14] X Research source
Tie lanterns across beams or supports. If your event setting has a shelter or tent, hang lanterns across the supports to create a large canopy of lights. Tie lanterns in bunches. Bunched lanterns hanging at different heights create great focal points at your party. Choose a point on a beam or support and tie five to ten lanterns in the same area, all at different heights. Try mixing the sizes of the lanterns to make your bunch even more eclectic feeling. Light a path with lanterns. Hang the paper lanterns low to the ground on short poles to create a cool effect. Use poles made for hanging potted plants, or make your own small poles with hooks. Then place the poles along a path or sidewalk to light the way to your party.
