Anybody can hang a lantern: it's easy and it can really change the way a room looks and feels. Adding some mood lighting can really make a difference, but with a little extra attention, you can really make that lantern pop. Here are 10 ideas to make your star light, hanging paper lantern, nylon lantern or hanging silk light really shine.

1. Hang the lantern from the ceiling using a swag hook and adjust it to a pleasing height. Once you have it hung, use a small finishing nail or brad to hold the cord all the way back to where the ceiling and wall meet. This way, your cord will hang neatly down the wall instead of being tangled with the lantern.

2. Wrap the light cord with ribbon, fabric or even crepe paper to make it more of a decorative element rather than something to be hidden.

3. If your star light or paper lantern is a solid color, try adding some color by painting or using markers to tie in with your decor. You can also add things like glitter or organic elements like leaves or dried flower petals using glue.

4. Hang lamps in clusters, rather than individually. Three is a good number for lantern clusters. Hang them at slightly different heights to achieve maximum effect.

5. Try using different wattage bulbs to change the way the lantern looks. A lower wattage bulb will create more of a mood, while a higher wattage bulb will put out more light.

6. For white or off-white lanterns, a colored bulb will completely change the look. Rainbow or stained glass bulbs can also be found online, and can make for a cool, subtle rendering on an otherwise unremarkable lantern.

7. For parties and special events, it can be impractical for each lantern to have its own cord. Try using triple socket cords or even longer strings of commercial grade string lights. Lengths of 25, 50 and even 100 socket strings can be found online at budgetlighting.com.

8. Battery powered LED lights are a simple solution for locations where electricity is an issue. Hanging paper lights from trees or wires that are invisible at night are a couple of locations where battery LEDs are ideal.

9. Nylon lanterns are more durable than paper. They can be used for special events, put away, and used again. Nylon lanterns are also better with moisture, including dew that can form on those cool summer nights.

10. Safety tip: never run a lantern cord under a rug or carpet. Only use weather-proof electric cords for outdoor applications. If your lantern cord is worn, cut or damaged, replace it. Better safe than sorry (and homeless)!

If you are stuck and need help with the decorations for your next big function, please give us a call at 888-408-0072, or drop us an email.  We’re here to help!