Coffee Filter Butterflies

I had forgotten what a great activity this is to do with kids. These butterflies combine the magic of science with an easy and colorful craft. They are just so pretty!

Supplies:

🔲 coffee filters

🔲 non permanent markers

🔲 pipe cleaners

🔲 spray bottle, water dropper or spoon

To Make:

Begin by stacking two coffee filters on top of each other. Draw a design on the top coffee filter with markers. Some of the ink will run through to the second coffee filter and that’s ok.

We found that the more color you use, the better they turn out. The more white you leave on the filter, the less colorful your butterflies will be.

Once your designs are complete, use a spray bottle, water dropper or even a spoon to carefully add a layer of water over the top.

You will see the colors start to run and mix, creating interesting tie dyed patterns. Place the filters in a sunny spot and allow them to dry fully.

When they are completely dry, you can begin to make your butterflies! Separate the two filters. Then fold each one back and forth in an accordion motion.

Take your two matching flat pieces and stack them on top of each other.

Then take a pipe cleaner and fold it in half. Bend it around the two halves of your butterfly and twist to tighten.

You will then have two ends of the pipe cleaner sticking up. Curl the ends around your finger to make them look like antennae.

Finally, fluff up the wings of your butterfly and it’s ready to fly!

You can add string or twine to hang it wherever you’d like.

Enjoy your beautiful butterflies! 🦋

How did your butterflies turn out? Let us know by sharing photos/videos @little.sunshine.mom!