How to Create a DIY House Lantern

Materials:

• 1 x 10 board – 15 inches total
• 2 x 2 board – 16 feet total
• Wood glue
• 2-inch finish nails
• 1 1/4-inch wood screws

Tools:

• Miter saw
• Nail gun
• Power drill

Make these cuts to your wood boards:

• One 1 x 10 board - cut at 15 inches
• Nine 2 x 2 boards - cut at 12 inches
• Four 2 x 2 boards - cut at 9 inches
• Two 2 x 2 boards - one end cut at 45 degrees - long end to end at 6 1/2 inches
• Two 2 x 2 board - one end cut at 45 degrees - long end to end at 5 inches

Attach 12-inch boards to the ends of a 9-inch board using wood glue and finish nails.

• Attach a 9-inch piece on top to complete making a rectangular frame.
• Build two of the frames.

Attach 12-inch 2 x 2 pieces to the frame from Step 2, using wood glue and finish nails.

Tip: It is easier to attach two diagonally opposite boards and then stand the entire structure up to attach the remaining boards.

Attach the other rectangular frame to the top using wood glue and finish nails.

Attach the 1 x 10 board to the frame using wood glue and 1 1/4-inch wood screws to make the base for the lantern.

• Build roof structure by attaching one long and one short angled board to each end of the short side of the structure.
• Use wood glue and finish nails to secure them in place.

For the center beam, attach a 12-inch board aligned to the top of the roof triangles using wood glue and finish nails.

Add seasonal elements and place your decor on a table or floor.