what are paper lanterns?

Paper lanterns are a type of lamp, and they are made from paper and some lighting source. This lighting source is usually either a flame or a light bulb. They have been used for many years, mostly by the Chinese and Japanese.

Paper lanterns come in all kinds of shapes and sizes today. The simplest form is a bag with a candle in it; this form of paper lantern is often seen on driveways on Halloween. This form is particularly dangerous though due to the risk of being knocked over which may start a fire; additionally, these lamps are usually placed on the ground, which might open children to touching the flame and getting burnt.

Today, they are usually lit with a light bulb and often come with a long electrical cord. They are often referred to as “hanging paper lanterns” or simply “hanging lanterns.” These cords usually come either ten feet long or fifteen feet, although other sizes are available. Usually, the maximum wattage for bulbs that these lanterns will take is a sixty watt bulb, but higher wattage cords are available as well. These cords are usually plugged into an electrical outlet and are run up a wall and hang from the ceiling by hooks. This is usually because these lanterns are used only temporarily for special occasions. Lanterns that are to be used as a permanent or long term lighting source are often electrically wired through the walls or ceiling, which hides the cord; this creates a more aesthetic appeal.

Paper lanterns that use flame for a lighting source are usually found outside. They typically go well in gardens or in places where people are going to be sitting or gathering. Special care must be taken not to bump into these lanterns, as the paper may catch fire if it comes into contact with the flame.

These lamps are sometimes white, but they often are multi-colored or are covered with designs. Chinese characters or Japanese kanji are popular designs for these lanterns. Other Oriental designs such as paintings of cherry blossoms or bamboo are also popular, but many kinds of designs are available.

Some manufacturers will make custom lanterns; this is useful if you want a specific design or photo on your lantern.

Paper lanterns are a useful lighting source, and can provide style and color to many environments. They are effective to use as lights and decorations, and are a nice addition to any home or garden.

This entry was posted on Sunday, July 19th, 2009 at 10:57 pm and is filed under general. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

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