FAQ's
Installation Information
How do they work?
The stars arrive flat and are easy to set up. Simply unfold them one point at a time and tie the two cords together to create a perfect star.
Each lantern comes with instructions, and you can also watch a video tutorial on how to open and hang the star.
How do I use my star?
You can use the star as a lampshade for any pendant light fitting.
Alternatively, you can turn it into a lantern by placing battery-operated LED fairy lights inside. Hang the star or invert it over a lamp stand for stability. Please make sure to use battery-operated fairy lights as electric ones are not recommended due to heat output and contact with the star.
Our stars also make fantastic unlit 3D decorations.
To be more eco-friendly, we encourage you to use our stars over an existing light source you may have. However, we do provide cable kits and fairy lights in case you need them!
Our stars are perfect for indoor use or in dry outdoor environments.
Can you walk me through how to install my star please?
Your star will arrive flat packed. Simply unfold it one point at a time and tie the two cords together to form a perfect star.
Instructions are included with each lantern, and you can also watch a video tutorial on how to open and hang it.
The stars are designed to be tied over a light source of your choice. The light source can be either battery operated or mains powered, and you can purchase it separately. Here are some ideas and recommendations (you might already have some fairy lights!):
Since our stars are tested to British Standard as lampshades, you can use them as you would a lampshade with electric light bulbs and LEDs over a standard pendant light fitting (as shown in the video). You can also use an electric plug set with a flex, light fitting, and plug to hang it in the window. The maximum recommended wattage for the stars is 40W, and they work well with LED bulbs up to 7 watts or low-energy light bulbs up to 16 watts.
You can insert battery-operated fairy lights, which will create a beautiful twinkling effect through the star's perforations. Remember to use battery-operated fairy lights as electric ones are not recommended due to heat output and contact with the star.
You can also use other types of battery-operated LED lights, such as portable 'bulb-on-a-rope' camping/closet lights.
What lamp should I use inside?
Our stars have been tested to work with a maximum wattage bulb of 40 watts.
However, LED lamps between 1.5 and 5.5 watts are recommended for the best results. The higher the wattage and lumens (e.g., 5.5 watts), the brighter the star will be. If you prefer a more ambient glow, use a set of battery-operated LED fairy lights or a lower wattage lamp (e.g., 1.5 watts).
The type of light you use inside and the color of the star will create different effects.
But don't just take our word for it—here's some feedback from our customers about how they've creatively lit up their stars:
"The perfect thing to hang in my office window for Christmas. I used a small string of battery fairy lights to light it, and it's subtle but really effective. Thank you so much. :)" "Easy to put together and looks fab :) I have mine over a multi-color changing bulb." "Arrived quickly and is absolutely beautiful! I've put a string of fairy lights inside mine and have them hanging in the windows. They're just the thing to brighten up the winter months!"
For more info, please see our light bulb guide here.
Our stars conform to the British Standard for luminaires BS EN 60598
Product Care
How do I take care of my star?
Each star is a unique creation, meticulously handmade from natural materials. When opening your star, please exercise caution and carefully follow the enclosed instructions.
To store your star safely, it can be folded flat and kept in its protective wrapper. Treat it with care, and it will radiate its brilliance for many years!
In case your star accumulates dust, simply wipe it gently with a clean, dry cloth.
Durability of the Lanterns
Despite being made from paper, the lanterns feature a clever structural design that ensures their strength. Don't let the material discourage you! The weighted paper used is thick, sturdy, and expertly crafted. Once assembled, the lantern becomes remarkably strong.
Longevity of the Lanterns
When treated with care, our lanterns can last for many years. We have customers who have enjoyed their lanterns for years of daily use. Although they may accumulate some dust over time, a dry cloth can easily restore their pristine appearance. Please note that certain colors may fade slightly over many years of exposure to direct sunlight, as natural pigments are used. However, if hung indoors and following the provided instructions, our lanterns are designed to last for years.
Please keep in mind that our lanterns are not suitable for wet weather conditions or bathrooms, as the paper can be damaged by moisture and steam.
Sizes of the Stars
Our store offers stars in various sizes and geometries, ranging from 42 cm to 87 cm in diameter. You'll find a wide selection to suit your preferences.
For larger decorative installations, we also provide bigger stars. Contact us for more information.
Safety Precautions
Rest assured, all Paper Starlights' lanterns have undergone British Standard testing and comply with BS EN 60598-1:2008.
Each star light comes with detailed assembly instructions, and you can also find an instructional video here
Please ensure that the wattage of your light bulb does not exceed 40 watts. We recommend LED lamps ranging from 1.5 to 5.5 watts. As our stars are made of paper, they should not be used with candles and should be kept away from open flames.
Fair Trade
Where Are They Made?
Our stars are proudly made in India.
For over 25 years, the team behind Paperstarlights has collaborated closely with a small family business in India to develop exclusive ranges of these wonderful, simple paper lanterns. These products are the result of a longstanding, harmonious working relationship. Each piece is equitably traded and crafted by individuals who work in a happy, secure, and supportive environment. Learn more here.
Originally created to celebrate 'Diwali,' the Hindu festival of light, star light lanterns elevate the mood and infuse a spirit of light and celebration into any occasion.
The Manufacturing Process
Each star light is meticulously handmade with great pride, using high-quality, weighted paper that boasts a superior finish. The production process follows traditional, non-mechanized methods. Every section of the star is printed using traditional techniques, the design features are hand-punched, the tissue paper is carefully cut and affixed by hand, and the star is assembled with geometric precision. Prior to packaging, each star undergoes a meticulous quality check.
Due to this non-mechanized process, slight variations in shade and design may occur. Please consider these as evidence of their handmade nature, adding to their authenticity and charm.
General
Can I Use Star Lanterns All Year Round?
A Star Lantern is not limited to Christmas alone! It can be utilized throughout the year as a stylish lampshade or for various parties and events.
They also make for cool camping lanterns and stunning wedding lights.
However, if you wish to use your star light as a cherished Christmas decoration that you bring out every year, rest assured that your star will fold perfectly flat for easy storage and can be reused year after year.
Comparison to Other Star-Shaped Lanterns
While many people have encountered paper stars or star lanterns before, we believe our stars are some of the most enchanting and of the highest quality available. They possess a depth of color, luminescence, and beauty that sets them apart from others.
"I ordered 2 of these paper lanterns and was pleasantly surprised by their quality - even better than the ones I had previously purchased from a different supplier. These lanterns are strong and well made, and I know they will last for years. I am extremely happy." "The superior quality of these lanterns is evident in every aspect."
The paper and materials used are robust, and the design and manufacturing process is executed by hand with expertise and care.
The artistry and attention to detail behind each lantern are unmatched, and each star undergoes rigorous checks and testing to meet the highest standards before being dispatched.
Paper Starlights are handcrafted by genuinely remarkable individuals and are produced through fair trade practices, which have been maintained for over 25 years.
Gift Wrapping
Every star is a gift in itself, regardless of the recipient, and we ensure that each one is packed accordingly.
To prioritize environmental concerns, we do not offer extra gift wrapping options. Rest assured, our stars arrive in an enticing manner, and our customers have praised the quality of our packaging. We have received fantastic reviews regarding our packaging, which utilizes minimal materials. We believe that the best gift we can offer is a more sustainable future.
How Bright are the Star Lanterns?
The brightness of our stars depends on the design. As a general rule, lighter-colored papers emit more light, such as white and ivory compared to red or violet. Additionally, stars with punched-out perforations create a twinkling effect and emit more light than those with tissue inserts. On a scale, Starry White, Venus White, North Star White, and Prosecco (white paper with perforations) produce the most light, while Fantasia Montana emits the least.
Paper Starlights' Sustainable Packaging
Achieving sustainable packaging can sometimes be challenging, especially with the rise of e-commerce. For a detailed breakdown of the packaging materials we utilize, please refer to our "Transparent about Packaging" guide here.
Our stars are meticulously packed with care, functionality, and minimal materials. Each package includes comprehensive instructions.
Can I Have That One, Please?
Certainly! You can have the star of your choice.
Shipping & Returns
Delivery Time
All orders received before 2 pm are dispatched on the same day. Orders placed after 2 pm will be shipped on the following day. For orders placed after 2 pm on Friday, shipment will occur on the following Monday.
Within the UK, we use standard 48-hour delivery services as our default shipping option.
International delivery typically takes 3-5 working days.
Please note that delivery times may be longer during peak periods.
For more information, please refer to our delivery policy.
International Shipping
The buyer is responsible for additional costs such as duties, taxes, and customs clearance fees. These charges can vary widely and are often based on factors such as item price, package weight and dimensions, origin country, and destination country's taxes, duties, and fees.
Please be aware that we have no control over these charges and cannot predict their amounts.
Contact
Still have questions? We're here to help! Feel free to email us at hello@paperstarlights.com, and we'll respond as soon as possible.
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