There's something rather lovely about walking past a house on a winter evening and spotting a glowing star in the window.

It's a tradition we've always loved at Paper Starlights. A softly illuminated paper star can completely change the feeling of a room, bringing warmth and colour to darker evenings. And while our stars might look intricate, they're surprisingly straightforward to hang.

Whether you've bought your first paper star lantern or you're dusting off a favourite from last Christmas, here's how to make it shine.

What do you need to hang a paper star lantern?

You don't need to drill holes or make permanent changes to your windows. You'll need a paper star, suitable hanging cord, a hook or other secure fixture and, if you'd like it illuminated, compatible LED lighting. For our USB lighting kit, you'll also need a suitable USB power source.

How to hang your paper star, step by step

1. Choose your spot

Windows are one of our favourite places, especially at Christmas: you can enjoy the star from inside and everyone passing by can enjoy it too. Measure the available space before you begin. Give the points of your star enough room so they aren't pressing against the window frame.

2. Open your star gently

Our paper stars arrive folded flat for easy storage. Carefully unfold the points and ease the star into its three-dimensional shape, following the instructions supplied. There's no need to rush this part.

3. Position your hook

A removable adhesive hook, such as a suitable Command hook, can be helpful if you'd rather not drill. Make sure it's rated for the combined weight of the decoration and any lighting, is suitable for the surface, and follow its cleaning and waiting-time instructions before hanging.

4. Add your lighting

Here's where the magic happens. Our LED lighting accessories are designed to complement our stars. The USB LED kit uses a warm-white 1.5W LED and a 4-metre cable, so you can position your display with flexibility. Follow the lighting kit instructions to position the light securely inside the lantern and connect it to a suitable USB power supply. Compatible battery-operated micro lights are another option for locations without a convenient plug.

Only use suitable low-heat LED lighting and keep all lighting, cables and paper safely away from heat and moisture.

5. Hang your star and enjoy

Secure the star with its appropriate hanging arrangement. Check that the cord and hook support the full weight and that the lighting cable is not pulling on the paper. Then switch on the light and enjoy the glow.

What size paper star is right for your window?

60cm stars are a lovely all-round choice for many windows. 87cm stars create a statement in larger windows or bay windows. Our 25cm mini stars add a cheerful little detail to compact spaces and layered displays. Measure first and leave space around the points.

Four window-display ideas we love

Keep it simple

A single white or gold illuminated star can look beautiful in the centre of a window. It doesn't need anything else to feel special.

Play with different heights

Hang a larger star with a few smaller decorations at varied heights for a relaxed arrangement. Keep cords and fixtures secure and out of the way.

Embrace colour

We love seeing bright reds, greens, purples and patterned stars bringing cheerful colour to a gloomy December afternoon. Christmas certainly doesn't have to be all white and gold.

Make it a yearly tradition

When Christmas is over, carefully fold your star flat and keep it in a dry place. It can come back out year after year.

Paper star lantern FAQs

Can I hang one without drilling?

Yes, a suitable removable adhesive hook can work well when fitted according to the manufacturer's instructions and rated for the weight and surface.

Do paper stars need to be plugged in?

No. You can display them unlit, or choose suitable battery-operated lighting. Our USB LED kit requires a compatible USB power source.

Can I leave an illuminated paper star on overnight?

We recommend switching the light off when sleeping or leaving it unattended and following all product safety guidance.

Can I use paper stars outside?

Paper stars must be protected from moisture and weather. Only use them in suitable dry, sheltered places and follow the product instructions.

Can I reuse them?

Absolutely. With careful handling and dry storage, paper stars can be part of your Christmas celebrations for years.

A little light goes a long way

We've been sharing the joy of handmade paper stars since 1996, and seeing them glowing in people's windows is still one of our favourite things about Christmas.

Ready to create your own display? Explore our handmade paper star lanterns and lighting accessories.