Decorative Cabbage With Coffee Filters
Decorative cabbage with coffee filters is a creative and budget-friendly way to add a touch of charm to your home decor. By combining the unique texture of cabbage leaves with the delicate look of coffee filters, you can create eye-catching centerpieces or table displays. This DIY project is not only fun to make but also a great conversation starter for when guests come over. So, grab your supplies and let your creativity bloom with this delightful craft idea!
Supply List
- Coffee Filters
- Green Craft Paint
- Green Food Coloring
- Coffee Stained Water (optional)
- Hot Glue Gun
- Cup, glass, or tin can
Step 1: Trim Coffee Filters To Look Like Cabbage Leaves
I began by taking a small stack of coffee filters and folding them in half. Then, I used scissors to trim a curvy edge to the entire stack. So easy!
Step 2: Stain Coffee Filters
Next, I made a green stain mixture using coffee-stained water and green food coloring. I began adding the individual coffee filters into the stain. I realized quickly that the food coloring and coffee alone wouldn’t give them the decorative cabbage color I desired. So, I added some of the green craft paint to the mixture. This method created a more realistic appearance, allowing for dark stained and light areas on each coffee filter.
Step 3: How To Dry Stained Coffee Filters
You have two options for drying the stained coffee filters. You can spread them out to dry naturally, or you can dry them in an oven or microwave. Because I wanted to complete the project quickly, I opted to dry the decorative cabbage leaves in the microwave and even a few in the oven. Either method works quickly.
To dry in the microwave, place 4-5 coffee filters on a paper plate and ensure the stain is heavier in some areas. Also, keep the filters slightly wrinkled. Place in microwave on high for 1 minute at a time. Rearrange and repeat until they are completely dry.
You can also dry in your oven with an oven-safe pan and follow the same placement suggestions. Keep the oven temperature low, 200-250 degrees, and only leave it for 5 minutes or less. Do not leave the stove unattended with the paper coffee filters inside.
Step 4: Assemble Decorative Cabbage
Once all your coffee filter craft leaves are dry, you can assemble your decorative cabbage.
Begin with a cup or tin can to wrap the cabbage leaves around. I used a small recycled bean tin can, and the size was perfect. Fold the cabbage leaves around the rim of the can one at a time.
Next, add a small amount of hot glue to the coffee filter at the rim and wrap another one over the top with approximately 1/2 of it overlapped. Continue around the rim of the can for at least two to three more rounds using hot glue to secure as you go. I used 12-15 leaves per cabbage.
Insider Tip
The dried coffee filters are crinkled and wavy. Don’t try to press the wrinkles out with your hands. Instead allow them to remain as wrinkled as possible. This adds to the authenticity of the faux leaves. The craft paint also created a stiff texture to the coffee filters which enhances the design.
Step 5:
When you have your desired size cabbage, place a bead of hot glue around the entire rim and put one of the coffee filters flat to the bottom. Then, remove the can to reveal your gorgeous cabbage leaf. Easy peasy!
