This toilet paper roll menorah is simple to make and perfect for toddlers and preschoolers to “light” safely during Hanukkah. Tissue-paper flames tuck into the cardboard tube candles so young children can participate in the ritual without real flames.
See all of our Easy Menorah Crafts for kids here.
I’m excited to share our first toilet paper roll menorah craft—an easy, kid-friendly project that produces a cheerful and colorful centerpiece. It’s a great way for little hands to create a safe, reusable menorah they can “light” each night of Hanukkah.
We’ve also made a wine cork menorah version for older kids and adults who want a sturdier alternative.
Children can personalize their toilet paper roll candles however they wish. In our example we painted the tubes in bright colors and added patterns with a liner brush or washi tape. If you prefer, glue, buttons, craft jewels, sequins, or glitter make lovely decorative accents—this craft encourages creativity and fine motor practice.
To keep the menorah child-safe, the flames are made from tissue paper so they slide in and out of the tubes easily. This allows children to “light” the menorah each evening by placing a tissue flame into a candle tube. For older children who want a more realistic flame, paper circle flames that slot into the tops of the tubes can add a refined look.
If you prefer a different flame style, try paper circle flames that slide into a slit at the top of the tube for a more lifelike effect.
Supplies:
- 8 toilet paper tubes
- 1 paper towel tube (for the shamash or helper candle)
- acrylic or tempera paint
- paintbrushes (various sizes)
- washi tape or thin decorative tape
- tissue paper (yellow, orange, and red if you want multi-colored flames)
- glue or hot glue gun (adult use recommended)
- optional embellishments: craft jewels, sequins, buttons, glitter
Time needed: About 1 hour (plus drying time)
Cardboard Roll Menorah — a step-by-step guide for a safe, reusable kids’ menorah
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Cut the helper candle
Trim the paper towel roll so it stands a little taller than the toilet paper tubes. This taller tube will be the shamash (helper candle) and sits in the center of the menorah.
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Paint the cardboard tubes
Paint each toilet paper tube in bright, festive colors. Allow the paint to dry completely before handling. You can use simple solid colors or add stripes and patterns for interest.
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Assemble the menorah
Arrange the eight painted toilet paper tubes in a straight line and place the taller helper candle in the center. Secure the tubes to each other with small dots of hot glue or craft glue to keep the structure stable.
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Add decorative details
Embellish each candle with washi tape, paint details, jewels or sequins. Small touches like painted stripes or tape bands personalize the look and make each candle unique.
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Make tissue paper flames
Cut a sheet of tissue paper in half, then fold the half several times. Flatten and pinch the center, gather the excess to shape a flame, and twist lightly so the flame holds together. Use red, orange, and yellow to create layered color if desired.
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Light your menorah
Each night of Hanukkah, tuck a tissue paper flame into the top of the next candle tube to “light” it. Because the flames are removable and nonflammable, children can safely take part in the nightly ritual.
This little menorah looks lovely on a windowsill or mantel and serves as both a festive decoration and a tactile way for young children to learn about the Hanukkah tradition. It’s lightweight, portable, and perfect for classroom activities, daycare, or at-home crafting sessions.
Tips: supervise young children when using glue guns; use washable paint for easy cleanup; store the tissue flames and menorah together in a small box so they’re ready to use for each night of Hanukkah. Encourage kids to invent patterns or tell stories about each candle to make the project extra meaningful.
We’ll be sharing more simple and creative menorah crafts soon—check back for more ideas that are perfect for toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children.
More Toilet Roll Holiday Crafts:
- Toilet Roll Snowman
- Toilet Roll Reindeer
- Toilet Roll Nativity
- Toilet Roll Christmas Candle