Don't Toss An Old Pringles Can, Create A Unique Tea Lantern On The Cheap With A Clever DIY

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Creating a cozy and inviting home doesn't need to be elaborate or costly. It's often as simple as adding accent lighting, a plush throw blanket, or a scented candle. If you have a creative bent, the options are even greater, with results that are personal and unique. The next time you want to add mood lighting around your space — but have limited time and funds — use parchment paper and a Pringles can to quickly create a DIY tea light lantern as a vintage-cool way to light your home.

An Instagram video posted by @peri_azizov briefly shows how to make this lantern craft. First, cut a piece of parchment paper that is large enough to wrap around a Pringles can. Glue the ends of the paper together to form a tube around the can. Then, smear glue over the rest of the sheet. A glue stick works well for this craft since it isn't as messy as liquid glue. Tuck and glue the bottom of the paper to the can to create a base for the lantern. 

Next, carefully scrunch the paper down the length of the tube before removing the Pringles can. If the lantern feels delicate, spritz it with a finishing layer to stiffen the paper. A spray varnish, like Aleene's Spray Acrylic Sealer, works on various materials, including paper. Another option is spray starch, which you may already own. A product like Niagara Spray Starch Plus may not harden the paper as much as the acrylic varnish, but should be sufficient for this project.

A single DIY tea lantern can change the vibe of a room, and it is also a renter-friendly way to add more light. For more of a wow factor, make multiple lanterns with this same method. You can also add visual interest by varying the lantern height. For example, crinkle the paper down just a few inches from the top of the can for a taller lantern, or push it farther down for a shorter candleholder. 

If you've run out of space on your shelves or coffee table, adapt this Pringles can project into a crafty idea for gorgeous string lanterns. Weave decorative ribbon through holes poked into the tops of the paper lanterns to create a strand of lights to hang on your wall or in an archway. Another option is to attach wire or string to the tops of the Pringles can lanterns to create individual hanging lights. 

For safety precautions, only use battery-powered tealights with these lanterns. You can also insert short strands of mini fairy lights, similar to these YOEEN Fairy Lights, for a more whimsical glow. If you are not a Pringles fan, try this craft with a tall glass or narrow vase. Or, for a more eclectic look, combine these various shapes as a unique decor option.