Jill of All Trades

Being a college student during these economic times is tough on the wallet. Doing or making things yourself instead of buying products and services is one way students can save money.

I've learned to be a Jill of all trades and I want to share my penny-wise ways with readers so in each issue of the Accent I'll be covering do-it-yourself methods for all kinds of projects.

Beautiful indoor lighting can make even the cloudiest, gloomiest of days seem bright and cheerful, and bring a sunny atmosphere to any room during the cold winter months. Paper lanterns can add depth to any setting and complement a variety of different décor styles, old and new. These lamps can also be used to create a sparkling display of shapes and shadows on walls to completely change the ambiance of a room when lit up.

Here is what you'll need to make your own paper lantern:

• Framing materials such as wooden dowels or popsicle sticks

• Tissue paper in your choice of color or pattern

• A light bulb and light cord set (IKEA carries one called HEMMA for $3.99)

• Liquid craft glue or wood glue (Elmer's glue works well)

• Hot glue or twine

• Crafting of modeling wire to hold the light source into place

• Scissors and an X-Acto knife for cutting shapes into the lantern

First you'll need to make the shape your lantern will be; try rectangular and triangular prisms, cubes and pyramids or any other form you like. Create your frame by hot-gluing the ends of your popsicle sticks together where they meet at the ends. You can use twine to bind the corners of shape in place for a more natural look.

Next you'll need to cut pieces of tissue paper to cover each side of your frame except the bottom, and top if you prefer a brighter lit lamp. For a more intricate lamp, draw shapes and designs on your paper before you attach it to the frame, and use an X-Acto knife to cut them out. For a simple yet beautiful look, use a toothpick or pointy object to poke small holes in the paper once it is mounted on the lantern to project a starry night effect on the walls surrounding the lantern. Wrap the crafting wire around each joint at the lantern frame's base, and bring each wire in toward the center to wrap and hold the light source end of the light cord set in place.

Finally, use the craft glue to secure each tissue pane in place on your lantern frame. You may cover the frame entirely or leave the edges of it visible for a contrasting look. Your creation should be fully set and dried in a few hours. Screw in the light bulb, plug in the cord and then use that finishing moment to utter those famous words, "let there be light!"

If you have an idea or a request for a do-it-yourself column, contact Assistant Editor Natalie Casanova at editor2@ austincc.edu.