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Making a coffee filter candle holder is a fun and creative activity for kids. It gives them a chance to work with colors and simple materials. Younger children may need extra help, but older kids can do most of it on their own. When finished, the colorful holder can be placed on a prayer table with a battery-operated tea light inside.

This activity helps children connect with prayer in a hands-on way. They create something beautiful to use in their prayer space. Seeing their own work on the table can remind them to pray. It also teaches them that prayer spaces should be special and inviting.

Working on this coffee filter candle holder craft also helps kids grow in patience and attention to detail. They learn to follow steps and see how small actions lead to a finished project. As they watch the colors blend and change, they see how simple things can become something greater. This can be a quiet, calming activity that encourages reflection.

Another benefit is the chance to work together. Families or groups can do this craft as a shared project. Kids can help each other and enjoy the process. It is a good way to build community while making something for prayer. When they see their candle holders lit up, they will know their effort was worth it.

Let Your Light Shine with Faith and Creativity

This coffee filter candle holder craft can remind kids of Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before others.” Just as the candle holder glows with soft, colorful light, our faith should shine in the world. This activity helps children see that even small things, like a simple craft, can bring beauty and warmth. It teaches them that their actions, words, and kindness can be a light to others.

The process of blending colors on the coffee filter can also reflect how God works in our lives. Different colors come together to make something new and beautiful, just as God takes all our experiences and shapes us. This can be connected to themes of trust in God’s plan, unity in the Church, and the idea that everyone’s gifts contribute to the whole.

In youth ministry, this coffee filter candle holder craft can make faith more engaging. Kids learn best when they can see and touch something meaningful. This project gives them a way to connect prayer with creativity. It also encourages group interaction, helping children build friendships as they work together. When they place their candle holders in a prayer space, they see their faith as something living and active.

Instructions for the Coffee Filter Candle Holder

Materials Needed

Instructions

  1. Flatten a coffee filter and place it on a protected surface. Use a disposable tablecloth if needed.
  2. Tear the tissue paper into small pieces (about 1 inch).
  3. Arrange the tissue paper pieces on top of the coffee filter. Overlapping colors will blend together.
  4. Spray a heavy coat of starch over the tissue paper.
  5. Use a paintbrush to smooth out the paper and help the colors blend. If the colors do not bleed, dip the brush in a little water and spread it over the paper.
  6. Carefully remove the tissue paper, leaving the colored coffee filter.
  7. Spray the coffee filter with starch again and drape it over an upside-down jar. Let it dry completely.
  8. Once dry, the filter will hold its shape. Remove it from the jar.
  9. Turn on a battery-operated tea light and place it inside the holder.

Variations and Safety Notes

  • Color Experimenting: Try using different color combinations to create unique designs.
  • Layering Effect: Instead of removing the tissue paper, leave it on for a textured look.
  • Different Shapes: Trim the coffee filter edges with scissors for a wavy or scalloped design.
  • Safety First: Do not use real candles. The coffee filter is flammable, so only use battery-operated tea lights.

This simple craft adds color and creativity to a prayer space. It also gives children a fun way to reflect on their faith.

Resources

Unleashing Creativity: The Power of Creative Activities in Youth Ministry

More Youth Ministry Activities

Looking for more fun and meaningful activities for youth ministry? Our Youth Ministry Activities page has many ideas to help young people grow in faith. You’ll find crafts, games, service projects, and prayer activities that keep kids engaged. Each activity is designed to encourage learning, teamwork, and a deeper connection with God.

Whether you need a hands-on craft like this candle holder or a group activity for a retreat, there are plenty of options to explore. These ideas can be used in religious education, youth groups, or at home. Visit our Youth Ministry Activities page here to find more ways to bring faith to life for young people.

Questions and Answers

Can I use regular glue instead of spray starch?

Spray starch works best because it makes the coffee filter stiff while keeping the colors bright. Regular glue may make the filter too sticky or heavy.

How long does it take for the coffee filter candle holder to dry?

It usually takes a few hours. For faster drying, place it in a sunny spot or near a fan.

Can I use real candles instead of battery-operated tea lights?

No, real candles are not safe for this craft. The coffee filter is flammable. Always use battery-operated tea lights.

What if the colors don’t blend well?

Try adding a little water with the paintbrush to help the colors spread. You can also spray more starch.

Can I use something other than a mason jar to shape the coffee filter candle holder?

Yes, any similar-sized glass or plastic cup will work as long as it helps the coffee filter hold its shape and does not stick.

A Simple Craft to Brighten Your Prayer Space

This coffee filter candle holder is a fun and easy craft for kids. It uses simple materials like coffee filters, tissue paper, and spray starch to create a colorful design. Once dry, the filter forms a delicate holder for a battery-operated tea light. The soft glow makes it perfect for a prayer space.

This activity helps children connect creativity with faith. As they blend colors and shape the filter, they can reflect on how God brings beauty into their lives. It also teaches patience and focus, making it a calming project for all ages.

Youth groups, families, and religious education classes can all enjoy this craft. It is a great way to bring kids together and encourage teamwork. When finished, each person has a unique candle holder to use in their prayer time. This small but meaningful project helps children see that faith can be both personal and creative.

Your Turn

Give this simple and meaningful craft a try! It is a great way to add color and light to your prayer space. Whether you do it alone, with family, or in a youth group, it is a fun way to reflect on faith.

We would love to hear about your experience. Did you try different colors or techniques? Do you have tips to make it even better? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments. Your creativity could inspire others to make their own beautiful candle holders!

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