Light the way with these DIY lanterns

Thought to have started in Egypt, it’s tradition to hang lanterns during the month of Ramadan, which begins Monday.

Called fanous, the lanterns symbolize hope, like the light of the world. In many Arab countries, they are hung in houses, on streets and in stores as decorations.

To light up your own home, follow these steps.

What you’ll need:

1. If you want to make a pattern or add a more intricate design to your paper, which will be the body of your lantern, do that first. Some lanterns hung up for Ramadan have stars and moons on them.

2. Fold the paper in half longways. Then carefully use scissors to cut slits about two-thirds of the way across, starting at the folded side.

3. Unfold the paper. With a piece of tape, secure the two opposite sides together. It should look like a tall cone.

4. Cut out two small strips of paper, and stick them to the top of the lantern to make a handle. Hang them up wherever you like.