How to make an elephant lantern.

Step 1:

Paper 2 balloons with tissue paper and dilute glue. One larger than the other = body and head. Here white tissue was used for base layers. Hang to dry. 

Step 2:

Pop balloons. Adjust body shape by cutting in half longitudinally, removing a 1/2” strip on each half and reconnecting with masking tape and then tissue strips. Prepare 4 legs by rolling up lengths of card stock and taping. 

Step 3:

Shape the head by adding a trunk and ears. 

Step 4: 
Using your final layer tissue colour choice paper all with strips and dilute glue. Let dry. The feet can be shaped as here by wrapping on thin rolls of tissue. 

Step 5:

Attach legs and head, holding in place with masking tape. 

Step 6:

Paper all and let dry. 

Step 7:

Add a tail. 

Step 8:

Add tusks. 

Step 9: 

When completely dry do any touch ups and strengthening required. 

Step 10

Cut an opening on the back for installing lights. Attach a latch. Attach one or two hangers. Paper clip pieces work well. Paper over these for additional strength. 

Step 11: 

Touch up and let dry. 

Step 12:

Add lights to the cavity. Here a string of 25 LEDs powered by 3 AA batteries was used. 

Step 13:

Off to the parade and festivities on January 28th with your beautiful lantern.