Paper Lanterns Guide

Paper lanterns are a great source of light and beauty, but they can be dangerous if proper procedures are not followed.

Paper lanterns come in two types: electrically lit and flame lit. Because of the heat emitted from the bulb, starting a fire is a danger associated with electrically lit lanterns, but the risk can be minimized to a safe level if proper procedures are followed.

Electrically-lit paper lanterns usually come with a long cord that has a socket on the end. The cords come in many different lengths, ten or fifteen feet being by far the most common. In homes, these cords are often run up walls and hung from the ceiling by hooks.

When hanging lanterns, ensure that an adequate number of hooks are used to hold the cord; this helps avoid the lantern falling from the ceiling. We recommend a hook every twelve inches to adequately hold the cord and to keep regions from hanging low enough to be hit.

When using electrically-lit lanterns that rest on the ground, ensure that they are placed in a location where they will not be knocked over, and be sure that the cord is not in a place where one might trip over it. Usually these lanterns are used for dim lighting at night, often outdoors, so a black cord may be a tripping hazard if not properly placed.

The cords have a maximum recommended wattage. Ensure that you follow this wattage; do not use a stronger bulb than recommended to avoid the risk of fire. Usually cords can support up to a sixty-watt bulb, but there are cords that support up to one hundred watts for home use. Cords exist that support up to six hundred and sixty watt bulbs; these are often used in film production for lanterns called “chinaballs.”

When a bulb too powerful is used in a paper lantern, a fire can be started. More often, though, the socket casing will melt, because the heat gets trapped in the lantern.

Both incandescent and compact fluorescent bulbs (CFCs) can be used in paper lanterns, but halogen lights are not recommended due to the high level of heat they produce. We recommend the use of CFC bulbs in paper lanterns; they generate very little heat, so any risk of fire or melting is negated.

Extra care must be taken when placing the bulb inside the lantern. When using an incandescent bulb, we recommend a distance of at least three to four inches from the closest side of the paper shell; this helps lower the risk of the paper catching fire. When using a CFC bulb, any distance is from the paper is acceptable, as very little heat is generated from these bulbs. Still, to reduce the risk of fire even further, we recommend the bulb does not come in direct contact with the paper.

When buying pre-assembled electrically-lit lanterns, the risk of fire is negligible if the correct wattage bulb is used. When assembling a manufactured lantern, it is best to follow the instructions to avoid risk of fire or melting; the correct wattage bulb can usually be found in the instructions that come with the kit.

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.