Follow along as I show you how to make this detailed Sukkos decoration with your Cricut, from cutting the pieces to assembling the finished lantern. In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to make a detailed lantern with Hebrew lettering and animal designs that come to life when it’s lit up. It’s a lovely way to add something handmade to your sukkah, with a warm glow that makes the finished project feel extra special. I’ll walk you through the process from cutting the pieces to assembling the lantern and adding the light. If you make one, I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Subscribe for more Cricut tutorials, Jewish holiday crafts, and easy DIY projects.
The quick walkthrough
- 1
The Design
Download the design and bring it into Design Space. In the layers panel you'll see that most portions of the file are a made up of a group containing a layer with lines and a layer with the shape of the piece. For each one, select the lines layer, change the operation type to score, and then attach both layers together. Depending whether you're using an LED candle or string lights, choose the circle or rectangle and resize it to fit the diameter of the candle or the dimensions of the battery pack. Centre it on the hexagon and attach. Hide the shape you won't be using.
- 2
Cutting
If you're using the scoring wheel in the Cricut Maker, you will need to insert that first, wait for it to be done scoring, and then it will prompt you to switch it out with the blade to continue cutting. If you're using the stylus, put it in the left clamp, and the blade in the right clamp. Now the machine will score first and continue to cut without needing your input.
- 3
Assembly
Fold all the cardstock along the score lines, then glue the vellum in place behind the six windows. One at a time, apply glue to the tabs and stick them in place, attaching all three walls. Finally, insert the ends of the tiny hanging strip into the slits at the top and glue them in place. Then add glue to the five top tabs and close the cap. Also glue the six tabs on the base to the hexagon with the hole in it. Finally, attach the closing tabs inside the lantern, gluing them onto two opposite sides. Line up the tab with the bottom edge of the window, leaving a small gap between the tab and the bottom edge of the lantern.
- 4
Insert the light
Place the candle or battery pack in its slot, lift the base and gently insert it into the lantern. Hold it carefully in one hand while using the other hand to close the flaps beneath it. That's it, you're all done!
Which light?
I prefer the candle slightly over the string lights, because it has a more uniform glow, and it has the added benefit of a gentle flickering effect that makes it look like there's a real candle inside.
