Although paper lanterns usually do not come assembled, they are one of the easier things in life to set up. They are available in many sizes, colors, and shapes. You may want to rush into setting it up, but please read a guide like this first, as if you are not careful, you can ruin your lantern. There are a few things to watch out for.
Paper lanterns are usually globe shaped, so their design is fairly simple to work with. The come flat, and they are flat for so long that they like to revert back to this flat state. To prevent them from doing so, an expander is included, which will go inside your lantern. An expander is almost always provided. You will need to get a cord with a socket on the end on your own, as this is usually not provided; these usually are ten or fifteen feet in length. Measure the distance between the outlet and where you want the lantern to hang before buying a cord.
Because the paper is so easy to rip, inserting the expander requires extra careful attention. Be sure you pay attention. You will see that there are two holes in your lantern, and they are not the same size. The bigger one is the top; you will insert the expander here. Notice the grooves on the top and bottom of the expander; these grooves are going to come into contact with the paper on the edges of the holes in the lantern. First, get the grooves on the bottom in place, and then expand the lantern manually so it snaps onto the grooves on the top. You are done! That was easy, right?
Next, run the cord. Plug it in first, so that you get the most accurate picture of what it will look like. If you need to run the cord on the ceiling, use hooks or tape to hang or stick it to the ceiling. Tape looks very tacky, but in some situations the appearance may not matter. Start at the outlet and work your way to the socket. Be sure that the socket hangs straight down. This is critical!
Screw the lightbulb in next, but be sure you unplug the cord before doing so. Be sure the lightbulb does not exceed the maximum recommended wattage for the cord you are using. Sixty watts is the most common. After the bulb is screwed in, you can attach the lantern. Insert the lightbulb through the top, and then let the lantern hang from the socket. This should be easy.
Now, you are ready to turn it on. Presto! You have a beautiful, dim light to enjoy. Paper lanterns make the perfect decoration for the outdoors or for a romantic evening; they can add a nice Eastern theme as well. Plus, they are cheaper than traditional light fixtures, and they can be easily replaced if something should happen to them.
Tags: garden
