Cardboard Lantern Materials Cardboard LanternDefraction PaperShimmer PaintPerle Cotton How to make a Cardboard Lantern Step 1Press out the cut outs from the Cardboard Lantern Step 2Paint the top of the lantern and allow to dry. Step 3Cut Defraction Paper Shapes to fit over the cut outs and top of the lantern. Step 4Create a tassel from the Perle Cotton and tie to the lantern.