If You Have Paper, Glue, And A Balloon, You're Ready To DIY The Cutest Pumpkin Lantern

Some paper, a bottle of PVA glue, and a balloon might not seem like much on their own. But if you combine the three items, you can create nostalgic '90s-style pumpkin lanterns. Wondering how? Paper mâché the balloon (aka cover it with paper strips dipped in glue), let it harden, and decorate it. Not only can this idea help you repurpose items lying around your house, but it's also a great way to decorate your home on a budget, as you're sure to find all of the supplies either at home or for a few bucks from your local craft store. Plus, it's a beginner-friendly project you can involve your kids in if you like. It won't take up a lot of your time, disregarding the hours your balloon lamp will need to harden into a solid pumpkin lantern to line your yard this season. 

Ready to get started? Besides the three primary supplies, you'll need a bowl, some water, masking tape, twine or jute rope, and a utility knife. To decorate the pumpkin, you can use black markers and paint. Additionally, keep a battery-operated tealight handy to light up your pumpkin lantern when it's complete. A string of fairy lights will work, too. Bonus points if they're remote-controlled so you won't have to take them out every time you want to turn the lights on or off. Just don't pop in a real candle since it's a fire hazard.

Start by blowing up your balloon based on how big or small you want your pumpkin lantern to be and tie off its opening. If you plan on crafting multiple lanterns, play around with their size for more creative pumpkin decorations. Apply a little bit of petroleum jelly to the surface, if you have it. Although optional, it'll help keep the paper mâché from adhering to your balloon, making it easier to pop the balloon later without the risk of your lantern deflating.

Now, get your roll of twine and tie its end around the knot on top of your balloon, securing it in place with a little masking tape. Loop the twine around to divide your balloon into multiple sections like a pumpkin, ensuring each line is tight. When you're satisfied, cut off the twine from the roll and tie its end around your balloon's knot, using masking tape again. Afterward, pour some glue into a bowl and add a little water to thin it out. Tear your paper into small strips, dip them into the glue mixture, and begin attaching them to your blown-up balloon. You don't have to use expensive tissue paper for this craft; a roll of toilet paper, your old newspapers, or the brown bags you get your groceries in will work, too.

Do a few layers to DIY a sturdy pumpkin (the exact number will depend on your paper's thickness) and leave it to dry for about a day. Finally, cut a small hole to pop your balloon and remove the latex. To finish off, decorate your pumpkin: Use a black marker to draw the eyes and carve the mouth (a sinister smile appears spooky), then fill them in with black paint before popping your tealight inside.