Traditional Chinese lanterns (in different shapes) are usually made of paper, bamboo and silk, modern lanterns include as well some metal and plastic parts. The roots of traditional lanterns lead us to Han dynasty (about 2000 years ago) when they served as decorations of rich houses and Buddhist temples. Later lanterns were used to illuminate streets and homes. Nowadays a lantern is still a vibrant symbol of prosperity, joy and family reunion during the Lantern Festival or the Mid-Autumn Festival. 中国传统灯笼（形状各异）通常由纸、竹和丝绸制成，现代灯笼也包含一些金属和塑料部件。 传统灯笼的起源可以追溯到汉朝（约 2000 年前），当时灯笼是富人住宅和佛教寺庙的装饰品。 后来灯笼被用来照亮街道和家庭。 如今，灯笼仍然是元宵节或中秋节期间繁荣、欢乐和家庭团聚的生动象征。

We have developed easy paper folding steps for children so that they could make a lantern by following the letters and matching coloured shapes. Print-outs are available down below. Happy paper folding! 我们为孩子们设计了简单的折纸步骤，这样他们就可以根据字母和匹配的颜色形状制作灯笼。下面提供打印件。祝您折纸愉快！