Haunting Lantern

This lantern is made to look like an old time oil lantern with a haunting image inside.

Wooden lantern from Dollar Tree (this one has an opening in the top)

Translucent file folders (or lighting gel sheets)

Scissors

Dark card stock

Solar light

Black paint with primer

Clear or black polyurethane

Hot glue gun and sticks

Ruler (not pictured)

In a well ventilated area paint the lantern black, making sure you get the inside too. After the paint has dried, check for any missed areas and spray those. Once you're satisfied with the paint, spray a coat of polyurethane on the outside and let it dry. Spray at least one more coat of polyurethane on the outside and let it dry. Next, repeat that step on the inside. Make sure to spray polyurethane on the metal top as well.

To create the oil lamp appearance, I used the yellow file folders. Cut the folders apart. Plug in the hot glue gun so it'll be ready to use when you're ready to assemble. Measure the width and height of the lamp. Using those measurements, make an outline on the folder sheets. You'll need to cut 4 of these inserts. After you get them cut, slide one into the lantern against the side of the lantern. If you measured outer edge to outer edge, you'll need to do a little trimming. Once you're satisfied with the fit of each sheet it's time to start gluing. I found it worked best to put a line of glue along the sides and bottom edges and leave the top clean for now. Place the sheet in the lantern and against a side, secure it in place. Next, put a line of glue along the top and secure. Repeat on the other three sheets.

Let's create the haunting presence! The black card stock in my first photo went missing by the time I was able to work on my project, so I opted for the blue. As long as it's a darker color, it will work. Cut out a ghostly image, or maybe a hand, or a face with the eyes and mouth cut out. Fold the bottom over a bit and put some tape on the fold. Carefully stick the card stock image down into the lantern and secure the tape to the bottom. I also put a little tape on the ghost's arms to secure them to the side. I chose to tape the image inside so I can change it out if I choose to.

Time to light it up! I bought the solar light at Dollar Tree. Pull the stake off and discard. Next, twist the clear plastic part and pull it away from the solar panel, and remove the tab. Replace the clear plastic part. Insert the solar light into the top of the lantern. Since the lantern top is square and the solar light is round, I used clear packing tape to secure it and try to keep any rain out. Black duct or electrical tape would work great!

Hang it outside. I used a planter hanger to hang mine on. I plan to remove the ghost and dress it up with some garland and ribbon for Christmas.

Happy Halloween!