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Cut one 8 1/2" x 11" in half, so you end up with 2 pieces measuring 5 1/2" x 8 1/2" as shown. One piece will be for the front of your luminary, the other for the back. On the front piece, trace a shape (we used shapes from the plastic shape kits) or draw your own and cut out with a razor knife. (We only cut shapes out of the front piece of the luminary, but you may also choose to do the back and side pieces as well.)
Next, cut another 8 1/2" x 11" in half, so you end up with 2 pieces measuring 5 1/2" x 8 1/2." With a bone folder and ruler, create scores 1/2" in from the edge along the 2 long sides of each piece as shown. Fold in at the score marks.
For the bottom of the luminary, cut a piece of paper 5 1/2" x 6 1/2". Score in from each side 1/2". Cut and remove the small square in each corner as shown. Fold flaps in.
It may be easier to decorate your luminary while the pieces are flat and unassembled. Try cutting the top edge with a decorative scissors. Adding a piece of vellum behind your cut out shape is also great for diffusing the light, creating a softer look.
Assemble the luminary as shown, attaching the pieces together by applying adhesive (glue stick, double-sided tape, and so on) to the flaps.
For the light source, we recommend using battery operated candles, Christmas lights, or nightlights which are inexpensive, safe, and found at most hardware stores. If placing outside, you may need to add additional weight to the bottom of the luminary such as sand or stones.
Luminaries are great for Halloween, the holidays, weddings or special occasions---inside, place on a table, or line a fireplace or stairway. Outside, hang from a tree branch, place on porch steps, or line a sidewalk or drive way
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