Chinese New Year is nothing without its signature home decorations.
From flowers and ornaments to wreaths and ang pows, each element has its own special meaning and symbolism.
But out of all this, there is none quite as important as the iconic crimson and gold lanterns we see every time the festive season rolls around.
They are beautiful, useful and serve as illumination during the night.
But have you ever wondered why they’re so popular this time of year? Well, read on to find out.
The Symbolism of Lanterns During Chinese New Year
Almost everyone recognises the pumpkin-shaped paper lanterns that are so often put on display during Chinese New Year.
They are hung by the multitudes along house beams or on lines suspended in the air.
In East Asia, they are known called Dēnglóng (燈籠) and are also known as Palace Lanterns.
Originally used as royal ornaments and manufactured from glass, silk and tapestry, Palace Lanterns were once a favourite item of kings to celebrate special occasions and festivals. They have been around for centuries, as far back as the Han dynasty.
Aside from being tools of worship and cultural artefacts, lanterns also carry their own significance depending on their colour, design and even shape.
Red Palace lanterns, for instance, symbolise prosperity, fame, and wealth. They are a staple ‘good luck charm’ when celebrating joyous occasions such as festivals, weddings, and of course, family reunions.
When hung near entrances, they are thought to ward off evil spirits from entering the home.
Some lanterns also have messages written on them to convey certain wishes for the New Year.
You will also often find lanterns with animals and motifs on them which signify different things.
Plants denote growth, butterflies represent happiness and Dragons and Phoenixes are ancient symbols of power and strength.
How to Make Your Own Paper Lanterns for CNY
For those who are currently making preparations for Chinese New Year, you may already be looking for some decorations to put in and around your house.
Instead of (or in addition to) buying your own palace lanterns, why not make and design your own?
This video tutorial below teaches you exactly how to make your own paper lanterns using whatever colour you want.
You can even add your own personal messages and designs to it to convey your hopes and wishes for the New Year.
All you need is coloured paper, a ruler and pen/pencil, a pair of scissors/craft knife, some glue, some string and a tassel.
Other Chinese New Year Decorations
The Year of the Rabbit promises to bring plenty of good fortune and abundance.
So, let us honour the Noble Animal associated with this new cycle and fill our homes with rabbit-inspired decorations!
But why stop there?
Why not craft your own Chinese New Year using the lucky colours of red and gold, and easy to obtain materials like paper and towels?
You can even turn it into a family bonding activity by getting your kids involved.
Without further ado, here are 7 Rabbit-themed decorations you can DIY at home with your children.
Origami Rabbit
This fun project is a great parent-child bonding activity.
At the end of the project, you’ll have cute little bunnies that you can put on tables as decoration.
Or even add as an ornament in your Chinese New Year Door wreath.
Ang Pow Rabbits
You can put more of your Origami skills to work with this rabbit decoration made from Ang Pows.
Hang them on walls or under lanterns, anywhere you think could use some extra luck.
They will definitely draw positive attention!
Door Ornament
Embellish your door with this beautifully made rabbit cut-out that you can make by yourself with minimal craft experience.
All you need is some red coloured paper, a pair of scissors, a string and a little bit of creativity.
Wall Decoration
Does the living room feel a little bare? Well, you need a little bit of colour and decoration to make those walls pop.
This wall decoration has a hidden bunny motif in it to honour the Noble Animal.
You can also put them on doors so guests can appreciate your handiwork before entering.
Towel Bunny
Need a quick little something to liven up the dinner table?
Well, why not make these adorable towel bunnies in honour of the Year of the Rabbit?
Relatives can unravel them at the start of your reunion dinner and use them as napkins.
Which means you save up on kitchen tissues and serviettes. Two birds one stone.
Clay Bunny
This is fast-dry modelling clay that will harden into a sculpture without the need of a kiln.
But you do need to be quick and be sure to follow the instruction and time so you don’t accidentally activate the clay too soon before you’re ready to mold it.
Once done, you can put it as decorations on tables or give them away as gifts.
DIY Your CNY Decorations Now, Mums
There are so many more ideas when it comes to rabbit-inspired DIY decorations that you can do at home.
So, make your Chinese New Year preparations now mums while there’s still time. And have fun with your kids at the same time.
Motherhood wishes you and your family a Happy Chinese New Year full of love and prosperity, Gong Xi Fa Cai!