A paper case enclosing a bulb or candle is known as paper lanterns. These lanterns come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can also be made using earthen materials like clay and bamboo. There are simple designs to more intricate designs. A simple lantern will cost lesser when compared the intricate lantern, whose skeleton is made using either bamboo or metal wire, which is then covered with durable and decorative paper.

Paper lanterns have been used for both decorative and esthetic purposes in many countries like China, India, Japan, etc. There are lantern festivals, wherein paper lanterns are flown in the air. It is a feast to the eyes to see lines and lines of lanterns airborne. In Japan and China, one can see lanterns with different colored lights hung in front of houses as well as establishments. Although this tradition originally came into being to attract business, nowadays it has more to do with visual and artistic appeal. In China, paper lanterns are made in different sizes �" from miniature size to round to huge ones. Owing to the growing demand of paper lanterns worldwide, there are websites that sell lanterns for an affordable price.