Sculptural Paper Lamp Making Workshop

Workshop details

There’s something very satisfying about starting with a few lengths of rattan and sheets of mulberry paper, then slowly turning them into a light of your own.

You’ll choose from a small selection of templates to guide the basic shape of your light, then bend the rattan into form and bind the pieces together with copper wire to build the frame. The templates give you a clear starting point while still leaving room to adjust the proportions, shape, and details as you go.

Once the frame is complete, you’ll cut and apply the mulberry paper by hand. Some parts are a little fiddly, some are repetitive in a strangely enjoyable way, and there’s plenty of time to settle into the rhythm of making.

The class is limited to eight people, so I’ll be around to help with the trickier joins, problem-solve with you, and offer guidance as your piece develops.

The best part comes at the end when the LED goes in and you switch it on for the first time. The paper softens the light, the structure becomes visible underneath, and all of those small decisions suddenly come together.

No previous experience is needed, just a willingness to work with your hands and spend a few hours making something with patience and care.

What you'll get

Your own finished sculptural lantern, shaped and made by you during the workshop, with a battery-powered LED included.

Lanterns will generally be sized to sit comfortably on a bedside table, shelf, or display surface. If you’d like to make something larger, extra materials can be purchased on the day, subject to time and availability.

A small amount of complimentary mulberry paper to take home, along with the recipe for the handmade glue used in the workshop. You can use these for repairs or to finish your lantern at home if you run out of time.

Your lantern will still be slightly damp when you leave the workshop, so it will be more fragile than usual and should be handled with care. Allow at least 12 hours for it to dry fully.

Knowledge required

No previous experience or making skills are required. This workshop is beginner-friendly. A little patience and an enjoyment of working with your hands will help you get the most out of the experience.

What to bring

Just yourself. All materials and tools are provided.

Comfortable clothing is best. We’ll be using glue during the workshop, which washes out easily, but you may get a little on your clothes while making.

Please note:

• Your lantern will still be slightly damp when you leave the workshop, so it will be more fragile than usual and should be handled with care. Allow at least 12 hours for it to dry fully.
• Lanterns will generally be sized to sit comfortably on a bedside table, shelf, or display surface. If you’d like to make something larger, extra materials can be purchased on the day, subject to time and availability.