DIY Menorahs for Hanukkah

The menorah is an integral symbol during the eight days of Hanukkah. Many families opt for a traditional menorah, but it's not unusual for crafters to try their hand at something more unconventional.

A typical menorah consists of nine branches with four candles on each side of a center candle that sits higher. There are some clever and chic menorah tutorials we're sharing so you can make your own. We're also exploring some ways you can alter candle holder tutorials to help you create a custom DIY menorah. Some ideas will look familiar, and for some, you'll have to think outside the box.

If your household has small children and you're in search of something flameless, check out some of these kid-friendly options.

01 of 10

Keep Your DIY Menorah Simple

Simply Designing

If the idea of burning candlesticks makes you feel uneasy, consider making this menorah that uses votive candles instead. The flames are safely encased inside the glass, and the pedestal can be customized to your liking.

DIY Menorah from Simply Designing
02 of 10

Alter a Kwanzaa Tutorial to Make a Menorah

Damask Love

This candle tutorial from Damask Love shows you how to make a kinara to celebrate Kwanzaa. However, as Amber mentions, this project can easily be adjusted to work for Hanukkah. Simply add two extra dowels and alter the colors to reimagine this piece.

DIY Kwanzaa Decor from Damask Love
03 of 10

Upcycle Objects You Already Have in Your House

Moms and Crafters

If you're a new mom, you might be able to relate to Menucha of Moms and Crafters. When she started her family, she looked forward to carrying on the family traditions of Hanukkah. Instead of going out and buy a menorah, she opted to use things she had around the house. Can you tell what she used? Head on over to the tutorial to find out.

DIY Upcycled Menorah from Moms and Crafters
04 of 10

Make Several of These Candle Holders

A Beautiful Mess

As this photo stands currently, these candles do not look like a menorah. However, if you opt to make one larger candlestick from this tutorial and eight shorter ones of equal length, then you will have a very modern and chic DIY menorah for the season.

DIY Mid-Century Modern Candle Sticks from A Beautiful Mess

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05 of 10

Stack Blocks to Build a Custom Menorah

Love Always, Aubrey

This menorah tutorial from Love Always, Aubrey is easy to follow and looks chic with any modern decor. If you prefer to keep your menorah more simple, skip out on the geometric pattern and paint the blocks a solid color.

DIY Menorah Tutorial from Love Always, Aubrey
06 of 10

Convert Scrap Pillars Into a Large Scale Menorah

Gray House Studio

If you want to have a larger-scaled menorah on your mantle, consider making nine of these wooden pillar candle holders. Paint the bases silver and use white or blue pillar candles to complete the look.

DIY Wood Candle Holders from Gray House Studio
07 of 10

Adjust This Tutorial to Hold More Candles

The Gathered Home

This candle holder tutorial from The Gathered Home makes a beautiful centerpiece to any table. If you want to alter this tutorial to work for Hanukkah, add enough length to fit three more candles and then stage the center with a taller candle.

DIY Copper and Cement Candle Holder from The Gathered Home
08 of 10

Try Out These Dip Dyed Candle Holders

Almost Makes Perfect

Overly practical crafters might appreciate that this tutorial could work as a menorah and all throughout the year. Craft nine individual candle holders using this tutorial. Line them up during Hanukkah and then spread them throughout the house in unique arrangements for any other time of the year.

DIY Dip Dyed Candlesticks from Almost Makes Perfect

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09 of 10

Make a Menorah Using Concrete

Fall for DIY

This tutorial can be altered just like the others mentioned here by making nine individual candle holders. This might seem like a lot, but you could always give each family member one to have throughout the year. When Hanukkah comes, have each member of the family bring their candlestick to come together to create one whole menorah.

DIY Paint Dip Dyed Candle Holder from Fall for DIY
10 of 10

Reuse Your Excess Shot Glasses

Home Made By Carmona

This menorah idea might seem completely unconventional, but the result might just be worth it. Gather up nine shot glasses and make sure one is taller than the rest. Follow this tutorial from Home Made By Carmona and then line each candle up on a wooden tray. You'll have created an instant and elegant menorah.

Shot Glass Candle Holders from Home Made By Carmona