Paper Lanterns

Paper lanterns are known throughout the world as one unique contribution to the lighting industry. Several researches and reports have revealed that the first paper lantern was made by the Asians, particularly the Chinese, and was distributed and introduced to other areas in the world by travelers and traders. Soon after the first introduction, many lighting and craft companies have started to develop their own paper lanterns, then making these items not just popular among the Asians, but among all races.

The paper lanterns come in different forms and styles nowadays. They differ in terms of shapes and sizes, as well as in color and shades. You can find some of these items boasting round, square, rectangle, and almost all shapes imaginable. They come in different sizes shown as small, medium, and large and just like the rest of the lighting products available on the market, the lanterns are offered to carry symbols unique to a particular brand or race.

For instance, the Chinese paper lanterns are typically fashioned to feature different designs unique to the Chinese people. You can find some Chinese characters printed on the lanterns’ surfaces, or some images like dragons, bamboo trees, and Chinese in kimono, among others. The colors of their lanterns vary according to occasions. Those that are designed for Christmas and New Year celebrations are often crafted in red.

The same holds true for the Japanese paper lanterns. The main difference, however, depends on the design and materials used for each of the lantern pieces. Most of the lanterns designed by the Japanese are often incorporated with some silk materials for added beauty and elegance. Some are hand painted, while others are fashioned with some other forms of embellishments.

The paper lanterns of today are not only limited to that of the Asian styles. The truth of the matter is, several new additions are being made just to meet the ever growing demands for these items. You can now find some lanterns boasting the most modern designs available today, and much to your surprise, gone were the days when candles are used as the main source of light. The paper lanterns of today are now crafted to carry even the latest technology. You can find some designs out there that operate through batteries. These battery operated paper lanterns often come in round, with a base holding the batteries. They are designed to be hung on ceilings or walls both indoor and outdoor.

Furthermore, there are some paper lanterns that operate by electricity. These lanterns come with cords and wirings, as well as with switches. They are easy to install and operate as all you have to do is to plug them in wherever there is a power source. In just a matter of the clicks on the switches, the lights will turn on or off, depending on what is asked.

Although that functional and attractive, the paper lanterns also have their own drawbacks. In the first place, they are susceptible to burning or fire and all is caused by its being made of paper. Other than that, the lanterns are so flimsy. They easily get tear and can even be damaged even when touched unintentionally.

Because of such drawbacks, it is then a rule of thumb for every user to keep an eye to their lanterns while it is working to illuminate an entire room. It should not be installed by intensely burning bulbs as too heat emitted by the lights can cause it to burn. Also, it should be handled as gentle as possible so avoid the tearing and wearing. Indeed, the life of your paper lanterns depends much on how you treat or take care of it.

Today, the lanterns made from thin paper are being considered in the lighting industry as one effective addition to themed parties. The reason behind this preference and claim all boils down to the different styles and designs that the lanterns carry.