These eerie Halloween lanterns are incredibly affordable and simple to craft. I discovered vintage black-and-white drawings online, printed them on vellum paper, and fitted them into thrifted 8" x 10" picture frames. Four frames join to create a square lantern, illuminated by a single votive candle inside.
For each lantern, gather four identical picture frames. I've scored great deals on standard sizes at resale shops and discount stores, often for just a dollar or two. Remove the mesh and glass, setting them aside, but keep the brackets or nails that secure the glass.
Lay the frames on a tarp and apply black spray paint evenly. Allow to dry fully, then flip to coat the backs and sides for a professional matte black finish.
Search online for vintage black-and-white Halloween images like bats, skeletons, witches, or eerie medical illustrations. Resize to fit your frames and print on white vellum paper for a translucent glow.
Trim prints to size and place the front side against the glass. Cover the back with clear packing tape to protect against moisture. Overlap the tape slightly over the edges and fold it around the glass by about 1/4 inch.
Slide the glass and print back into the frame, then bend the supports or nails to secure everything firmly in place.
Align the four frames side by side with backs facing up (Image 1). Secure adjacent edges with black tape (Image 2), leaving one joint open. Form a square, then tape the final connection from inside (Image 3).
Susan Teare
Position the lantern over a votive candle—battery-operated for safety or traditional for authentic flicker.
