These spooky lanterns cost very little to make. The black and white drawings were found online and printed on vellum then inserted into second hand 8" x 10" picture frames. The frames were then joined to form a square and a votive candle was then placed inside.
For each lantern, use four picture frames that are all the same size. We were lucky enough to find a bunch of standard sized frames at a resale store. Discount stores often have basic frames for only a dollar or two.
Remove the mesh and glass from the frame and set them aside. Keep the brackets or nails that hold the glass in place.
Lay the frames out on a tarp and spray them with black spray paint. Let dry and then flip them over to spray the back and sides.
Search the Internet for vintage-style black-and-white Halloween drawings. We use bats, skeletons, witches and old medical drawings. Size the images accordingly, then print them on the white vellum paper.
Cut the prints to fit the frame. Place the front of the image on the glass. Cover the back of the paper with the clear tape (this way water won't collect on the paper and could damage it). Position the packing tape so it hangs over the glass, then fold it over the glass about 1/4".
Place the glass and print back inside the frame and bend the supports (or nails) back to hold everything in place.
Lay the four frames side by side with their backs facing up (Image 1). Use black tape to secure the edges of the frames together (Image 2). Leave one at the end untied for now. Pick up the frames and place them in a square, then attach the last piece of tape from the inside (Image 3).
Susan Teare
Place the lantern frame over a candle (battery or standard).
