Mini Floral Lanterns: A Nature-Inspired Craft with Pressed Flowers

There’s something magical about the way pressed flowers catch the light. These delicate Mini Floral Lanterns, created by our friend and contributor Sibia Torres Padilla, author of Charming Woodland Crafts, bring a little bit of nature’s beauty indoors.

Using simple materials and treasured blooms, you'll create glowing lanterns that feel like tiny pieces of a summer garden preserved in time. Whether hung in a cozy reading nook, displayed on a nature table, or used to add a soft glow to a special celebration, these handmade lanterns invite children and grown-ups alike to slow down, create, and appreciate the beauty found in the natural world. 

What You'll Need

• Small balloon
• String or twine
• Bowl
• White glue
• Water
• Spoon
• Paper towels or napkins
• Assortment of pressed flowers
• Scissors
• Hole punch
• Battery-operated tea light or string of fairy lights

How to Make Mini Floral Lanterns

1. Prepare the Balloon: Inflate the balloon to your desired size—this will determine the size of your lantern. Tie a knot or secure the end with string if you'd like to reuse the balloon later. Rest the balloon in the mouth of a jar or bowl with the rounded side facing up to keep it steady while you work. 

2. Mix the Paste: In a bowl, combine equal parts white glue and water (a 1:1 ratio). Stir well with a spoon until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. 

3. Apply the First Layers: Tear the paper towels into approximately 1 x 1-inch pieces. Dip each piece into the glue mixture, making sure it is fully coated, then gently smooth it onto the surface of the balloon. 

4. Build Up the Lantern Shape: Continue layering the paper towel pieces over most of the balloon, leaving a small opening at the top. Aim for three to four layers to create a sturdy lantern once dry. 

5. Add the Pressed Flowers: While the surface is still damp, carefully place your pressed flowers onto the paper towel layer. Arrange them however you like—create a pattern, scatter them freely, or highlight a few favorite blooms.
   
   
   

6. Seal and Dry: Brush or spoon another thin layer of the glue mixture over the entire surface, securing the flowers in place. Allow the lantern to dry completely. Depending on the thickness of your layers, this may take several hours or overnight.

7. Remove the Balloon: Once fully dry, turn the lantern over so the opening faces upward. Carefully deflate the balloon by popping it or untying it, then gently remove it from inside the lantern. You’ll be left with a beautiful translucent floral shell.

8. Trim and Punch Holes: Use scissors to neatly trim the opening if needed. Then use a hole punch to make two holes opposite each other near the top edge of the lantern.
   
   
   

9. Add the Light: Place a battery-operated tea light or a small string of fairy lights inside the lantern.

10. Hang and Enjoy: Thread a piece of string or yarn through the holes to create a hanging loop. Your enchanting floral lantern is ready to brighten your space with a soft, nature-inspired glow.

These floral lanterns are a lovely way to showcase treasured pressed flowers while creating something both beautiful and useful. Whether you make one lantern or a whole collection, this easy craft offers a creative way to bring a little bit of nature indoors.