DIY: String Lanterns

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Every so often I see a DIY project that really seems incredible. I think these string lanterns would be perfect for an outdoor wedding, or even for your backyard. If you are crafty and unafraid of making a mess, this project is for you. Please don't try this on your carpet-- at a minimum do it on top of tarp. You're probably best off completing this project outside.

You will need:
-Large Balloons
-A Sharpie
-Scissors
-Cotton Yarn
-4 oz. White School Glue
-1/2 cup Corn Starch
-1/4 cup Water
-Something to stir with
-Petroleum Jelly
-Clear, fast drying spray paint
-Container for mixing glue in
-String

Directions:
1. Blow up a balloon. I would suggest only inflating until it is a decent size, but still round. If you get it too full, you'll end up with an oblong shaped lantern. I think for the best end result you will want varied sizes.
2. After the balloon is inflated to your desired size, draw a circle around the knot of the balloon big enough to put whatever light source you would like to use. If you are hanging from Christmas lights or something similar, you will need to fit the light into this hole. If you are just planning to put these into a vase or have no plans to light these up, forgo the sharpie.
3. Lay down your tarp, and find a way to suspend the balloons with string. You can use a shower curtain rod across chairs, a clothespin line, or a rope between two trees.
4. Mix the corn starch, glue, and warm water together until the mixture is nice and smooth.
5. Smear the petroleum jelly all over the balloon, until it is completely coated.
6. If you have a friend or your fiancé helping you, this will go a lot quicker. One person should feed the yarn into the glue mixture, then hand it off to the other person, who will drape it around the balloon.

7. Begin wrapping the yarn vertically around the balloon at a comfortable tightness, and then gradually switch to wrapping it horizontally. Tuck your beginning and end pieces under other pieces of yarn.

8. After allowing the balls to dry for 24 hours, pop the balloons! Chop sticks or something similar can help remove any glue crystals that form between strings.

9. Spray the ball with the clear, fast drying spray paint outside.
10. Now hang your balls either from lights, from fishing wire, or display them in a vase or bowl!

For more fantastic DIYs and ideas, check out Wednesday Custom Design, Events, & Paperworks.