There are so many ways to use clothespins far beyond just using them to hold clothes. I don’t remember the last time we hung clothes out on a line, but we use clothespins in our crafts and school almost every day! This time, we wanted to make a clothespin craft that could be used as a gift or decoration in our house. The way the nautical clothespin candle holder turned out was even better than I had hoped! We’ll be using this candle holder all summer long in our backyard to add a cheery glow to long summer nights.

This easy DIY Clothespin Candle Holder is perfect for a nautical theme or a patriotic celebration! Make one for Memorial or the 4th of July!

Recommended Grade Level:

Materials for the Button Counting Grids:

  • Clothespins
  • String
  • Pillar Candle

Follow these steps to make your own nautical-themed clothespin holder.

Save a tuna can from lunch. Wash it out thoroughly to remove the fishy smell.

Remove the metal piece holding the clothespins together. You’ll need about 16 clothespins.

If your clothespins aren’t painted, paint 16 blue and 16 red. Let dry.

Glue the bumpy end of the clothespin to the outside of the tuna can. Alternate between red and blue all the way around the tuna can.

If your can is the same size as ours, if you are careful, you should be able to go all the way around the can without having to repeat any colors in a row.

Wrap the center of the candle holder with twine. Add a bit of glue to hold the string in place. You can add as much or as little string as you like. The string helps hold the clothespins in place and gives it a finished look.

Add a candle, light it, and you’re done!

We’ll be using our candle holder with citronella candles to keep mosquitoes away all summer long.

More from our Shop

Find even more engaging activities in the Life Over C’s shop!

candle holder craft for tweens using clothespins
text saying [want more activities? Click to try these!]

Similar Posts