1. First, protect your work table with paper towels and put on rubber gloves. Then, follow the package directions to mix a dye bath in the plastic bucket.

2. Submerge each doily in the dye bath for 10 to 30 seconds (note: the longer they soak, the deeper the color will be), then wring out and lay flat to dry (about 24 hours) on paper towels. Clean bucket.

3. Tie one end of a length of twine around the ball's valve; tape the other end to the work table so the ball hangs just above the floor. Lay paper towels underneath to catch any drips.

4. Apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly to the inflated beach ball (this will keep the doilies from sticking).

5. Pour fabric stiffener into the bucket and dip in a doily, fully saturating the fibers. Squeeze excess stiffener into the bucket and position the doily on the beach ball.

6. Repeat with the remaining doilies, positioning them around the ball so they overlap slightly. Smooth down uplifted edges as you go. Cut a 3½" hole at the top.

7. Let the lantern dry completely (about 24 hours), then use scissors to remove the deflated beach ball through the hole.

8. Screw an LED bulb (which stays cool to the touch) into the cord set, then push it inside the lantern so the bulb is centered and at least 2½" away from all sides. Secure the cord set to the top of the lantern using wire, and suspend above a table.