Paper Lanterns > Star Lanterns, Paper Star Lanterns

Star Lanterns, Paper Star Lanterns


Paper star lanterns or star lanterns are one specialty that Asian Ideas works hard to bring to you in many sizes and patterns. Our entire star lantern inventory is made of only the highest quality paper. No matter which price range you are on the market for, our star collection is filled with premium selections. In addition, we also offer tin or glass star lanterns.

What Are Star Lanterns?

Our star lanterns are basically 3 dimensional lanterns that are in the shape of stars. They are usually made from cardstock paper, though other materials, such as tin, glass, metal, or aluminum are used. Star lanterns usually have a hollow center so some type of lighting, either electrical, battery operated, or candle light, can be added to make the star glow or cast shadows.









12 Inches Star Lantern - Red
$3.95
On Sale! $3.50
































There is nothing more lovely and vibrant than bright star lanterns that stand out especially during night time. Decorative paper star lanterns are the lantern of choice in Vietnamese culture during the Mid-Autumn Festival known as Têt-Trung-Thu. Considered to be mostly a children’s festival, lanterns represent the hope parents have for their children’s future as well as the happiness that is fostered when family is together.

Star Lanterns that Glow

Star lanterns that can glow when light by electrical or battery lights are made from cardstock with cutout patterns. The cutout patterns are covered with translucent paper from the inside. When lit by light, most of the light are trapped inside the star. Thus, the star lantern will show a glowing effect though the translucent paper.

Star Lanterns that Cast Shadows

Some star lanterns have cutout patterns on the cardstock paper. When they are illuminated, light travels through the cutout patterns and cast great shadows. They are especially pretty when lit with colored light bulbs.

Today, paper lanterns are used for almost every occasion, from weddings to parties, as they now come in almost every imaginable colors, shapes, and sizes. The history of Chinese lanterns dates back about two thousand years ago. However, these colorful lanterns were not first used for decorative purposes. Instead, it was created for military aid purposes. A popular military strategist Zhuge Liang created the first flying lantern in China. According to accounts, the shape of the first paper lantern was patterned after the hat that Liang was wearing. It was made from oiled rice paper fitted on a bamboo frame. Inside, a small candle produces the hot air, which then allows the balloon to rise up.

Similarly, these paper lanterns were also used in many ceremonial practices such as weddings. White gauze paper lanterns were often utilized during these ceremonies along with four red paper letters attached to it. The characters adorned on the lanterns would include expressions regarding respect as well as wishes for a hundred children and a thousand grandchildren.

Paper lanterns were also used to represent the return of spring. Lantern festivals are usually held during this time. Chinese people believe that Lantern Festivals symbolizes the relation of people, nature, and higher beings which made it possible for the light of the spring to return every year.