Mid-Autumn Festival is not only a time for children to carry lanterns and feast, but also an opportunity for the whole family to create warm moments together. Among countless types of lanterns, the traditional đèn kéo quân lantern always evokes childhood memories with its magical turning images under the flickering candlelight. But do parents know how to make such a lantern with their child right at home? And more importantly, how can children play safely with this special lantern? Let me share simple steps to craft it, while noting safety tips so the whole family can have a complete Moon Festival season.
Đèn kéo quân What is the đèn kéo quân? The đèn kéo quân is a iconic symbol of the Mid-Autumn Festival and holidays; it not only brings sparkling light but also evokes the story of reunion and the beauty of traditional culture. Each turn of the lantern symbolizes togetherness, reminding generations to cherish family moments during the full-moon festival.
Now let's explore three simple steps to create a traditional, meaningful đèn kéo quân lantern!
Cách làm đèn kéo quân truyền thống tại nhà
1. Chuẩn bị vật liệu
To begin the creative journey, parents need to prepare the following basic materials:
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Lantern frame: Choose a bamboo or wooden frame that has already been whittled.
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Paper: translucent glassine paper, colored paper, and printed paper.
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Decorative motifs: drawings of characters such as the Heavenly Marshal (Tề Thiên), Pigsy (Trư Bát Giới), or traditional scenes such as plowing, fishing.
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Tools: scissors, craft knife, glue, wire, candles or LEDs.

Parents can purchase ready-made DIY lantern kits at stores, helping save preparation time.
2. Lắp ráp và trang trí
After you have all the materials, we will start assembling.
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Make the frame: Use wire or glue to secure the bamboo/wood slats into a cylindrical frame or a star-shaped frame.
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Create the army-pulling motif: Glue the drawings onto colored paper, then cut out and glue onto a rotating axle.
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Attach the turning axle: Fix the axle in the center of the frame. Parents should ensure the axle can rotate smoothly so the images move fluidly.
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Apply translucent paper: Paste translucent paper on the faces of the lantern frame, sealing the gaps.

3. Hoàn thiện và thắp sáng
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Install the light: Place a candle or LED inside the bottom of the lantern. If using a candle, parents must be very careful, placing the candle in a safe position away from flammable materials.
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Lighting: Light the candle or turn on the LED. As the candle burns, the hot air rises, driving the turning axle to move, creating sparkling, magical images. Compared with other lanterns, the army-pulling lantern stands out with movement. Children will be delighted to see the traditional army-pulling lantern they made themselves.

Video guide reference: source Vinacraft
An toàn khi cho bé chơi đèn kéo quân
Safety is always Mykingdom's top priority. Therefore, parents should note the following to ensure a complete and safe Mid-Autumn Festival for their child:
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Use LED lights: Instead of candles, parents can choose LED lights. LEDs are not hot, have no flame, reducing the risk of fires, especially when the child is small.
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Supervise children: Always supervise them when playing with lanterns, whether candles or LEDs.
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Choose quality products: Buy lantern kits with clear origins from reputable brands to ensure safety.

Making the traditional army-pulling lantern with your child and knowing how to stay safe is the perfect blend of memory, family closeness, and the joy of discovery. With a little skill and care, your child's Mid-Autumn Festival will be more sparkling and safe than ever.
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Let this Mid-Autumn Festival be a collaborative artwork of the traditional army-pulling lantern. Wishing you and your child a warm and truly memorable festival season!


