Heart-Shaped Hanging Paper Lantern – SO Easy!

Instructions

STEP 1: GET THE HEART LANTERN DESIGN:

You can get my Heart Shaped Hanging Paper Lantern design file from my free resource library (get the password to the library in the form at the bottom of this page.

Tip: If you are not sure how to upload an SVG cut file to the Cricut Design Space, watch this helpful video training series I made. If you are on an iPad or iPhone, here is how to download and upload SVG files to the Cricut Design Space app.

This project requires folding and it has two different versions for you to choose from -- a "dashed-line" version and a "scored-line" version. The filenames identify the version.

The dashed line version does not require a scoring tool or any score line setting. Instead, we've added small cuts to the file that will assist you in folding your project. If you are new, we recommend you use this version of the project.

Here is what my dashed line Heart Lantern design file will look like when you upload it to the Cricut Design Space:

The scored line version requires a scoring tool, such as the Scoring Stylus or Scoring Wheel. It also requires that you set and attach the score lines in this tutorial. If you don't set and attach your score lines, your score lines will cut rather than score.

Here is what my scored line Heart Lantern design file will look like when you upload it to the Cricut Design Space:

First thing you want to do is zoom out so you can see the whole design and hide or delete the black layer with the directions. You can do this by selecting the black layer in the Layers panel on the right and clicking the Eye icon or the Delete icon.

I originally pre-set and attached this project's score lines for for you, but Cricut Design Space no longer recognizes this. That means you need to set and attach your score lines.

HOW TO SET & ATTACH SCORE LINES

To set and attach score lines in this project, select the design on the Canvas and click Ungroup. Now begin checking the Layers panel for layers that look like nothing more than empty, uncolored lines -- those are the score lines. Another way you can identify the score lines in this project is to look for two layers that are in a small group with themselves -- in these small groupings, the top in the score line and the bottom is the base layer.

So once you've found a Score line, select it in the Layers panel, then go to the Operation menu, and choose Score. You should see that layer change from Basic Cut to Score in the Layers panel. Now hold down the Shift key and select the layer below that, then click Attach. Your Score line is now set and attached to its base layer. It's very important you tell Cricut Design Space which layer you want scores by attaching it, or you'll just have scoring happening on empty mats. Continue going down the Layers panel until all layers that just seem like empty lines are set to Score, and make sure you Attach them to the layer immediately below it each time. When you feel you've got them all, click Make It and carefully check each mat. If you see any mats that appear to just be odd black lines, that means you forgot to attach some score lines to their base layers. Go back and find them, and then select the score line and the layer immediately below that, and click Attach.

This is how your project should look when all score lines are set and attached:

This video shows you how to identify and set score lines in one of my projects.

If you'd like to change the color of your material, you can select each colored layer from the Layer panel, then click on the Color Picker at the top of the screen to choose a new color.

STEP 2: SELECT MATERIALS AND TOOLS IN CRICUT DESIGN SPACE

When your project is ready, click "Make It".

That will take you to this screen where you will now click "Continue" in the bottom right. (If you are asked if you want to cut this on or off a mat, choose "On Mat.")

Now it's time to choose your materials and tools. Click "Browse Materials".

I used Mirror Metallic Pink Cardstock and after some trial and error I found the perfect setting for the cut...Foil Kraft Board. So I typed "Kraft" in the search window and selected "Foil Kraft Board, Holographic".

I always like to change my pressure to "More" to ensure a nice clean cut.

Next, I'm going to click "Edit Tools" because I'm going to use my "Scoring Stylus". This tool works great for this project and it's easier because you won't need to switch out tools.

Now you are all ready to cut.

STEP 3: CUT YOUR HEART SHAPED HANGING PAPER LANTERN

First, make sure to add the scoring stylus in "Clamp A".

Next, place your cardstock on your Blue LightGrip mat and load the mat into your machine, I'm using the Maker, but you can also cut this on the Explore Air 2...then press the flashing Cricut icon. Repeat this step for the other side of your heart design.

STEP 4: ASSEMBLE YOUR HANGING PAPER LANTERN

Once the cut is complete you will peel the cardstock off your mat.

TIP: Flip your mat over and slowly roll it back. This releases the paper and keeps it from rolling.

Then use a weeding tool or pen to pop out the bits and pieces that didn't come out on their own during the cut.

Now that you have both sides of the lantern, the first thing you want to do is apply small pieces of Scor-Tape to each of the tabs, don't peel it back to expose the adhesive part just yet.

TIP: If you can, use a rotary blade to cut the scor-tape. You can use scissors, but they might get ruined by the sticky part of the tape.

Now, it's time to fold. It really helps if you use a hard edge to fold the tabs. I used the side of my portable trimmer, but you can use whatever works for you.

You can just use your hands to bend and fold the other parts of the design.

Next, starting at the bottom, peel back the Scor-Tape and attach it to it's corresponding side.

Each tab should be attached to the inside of the heart and use your fingers to make sure it's firmly attached. This can be a bit tricky, because it's a tight space, but take your time.

Now, make sure your LED light bulb is screwed into the hanging cord and make sure everything is working.

I plugged my LED light in and switched it on to test it out.

With the Heart Lantern on its side and still open at the top, place the light bulb into the lantern. You will notice there's a hole at the top big enough for the bulb to fit through.

Now finish attaching all the tabs, making sure each tab is firmly stuck to the other side. And that's it...you're all done!

STEP 5: SHOW IT OFF!

Your final and most fun step is to hang your heart lantern up wherever you like, plug it in, and enjoy the glow!

Isn't it so pretty? Just perfect for Valentine's Day or any celebration of love throughout the year, weddings, baby showers, anniversaries...it's the perfect finishing touch! And it's sure to impress!

You can also adjust the size if you are looking for something smaller, maybe for a centerpiece or a garland, and add fairy lights instead of a light bulb.