Looking for a simple red, white, and blue craft to celebrate America 250, the Fourth of July, or Flag Day?
This Patriotic Rice Tea Light Decoration is easy to make, inexpensive, and looks great displayed on a table, windowsill, or countertop. Kids will enjoy helping color and layer the rice while creating a festive decoration for your family’s celebration.
Supplies
☐ Uncooked white rice
☐ Red food coloring
☐ Blue food coloring
☐ White rice (leave some uncolored)
☐ Zip-top bags
☐ Paper towels or wax paper
☐ Clear glass jar, vase, or votive holder
☐ Battery-operated tea light
Directions
Step 1: Color the Rice
Place one cup of rice into a zip-top bag.
Add a few drops of red food coloring and seal the bag. Shake until the rice is evenly coated.
Repeat with another cup of rice and blue food coloring.
Leave a portion of the rice white.
Step 2: Let the Rice Dry
Spread the colored rice onto paper towels or wax paper.
Allow it to dry completely before using it in your decoration.
Step 3: Layer the Colors
Pour a layer of red rice into your clear container.
Add a layer of white rice.
Add a layer of blue rice.
Continue layering until the container is filled.
Step 4: Add the Tea Light
Place a battery-operated tea light on top of the rice.
Your patriotic decoration is ready to display!
Why Red, White, and Blue?
The colors of the American flag are recognized all around the world.
Many people connect the colors with these ideas:
- Red reminds us of courage and bravery.
- White reminds us of honesty and ideals.
- Blue reminds us of perseverance and justice.
As you create your decoration, take a moment to notice the colors and what they represent.
Make It Your Own
Try one of these fun variations:
☐ Create striped layers.
☐ Use a mason jar instead of a votive holder.
☐ Add small star stickers to the outside of the container.
☐ Make several decorations and use them as a table centerpiece.
Safety Reminder
Always use a battery-operated tea light for this craft. Adult supervision is recommended when working with food coloring and glass containers.
Talk About It
While you craft, ask:
☐ What do the stars on the American flag represent?
☐ What do the stripes represent?
☐ Where have you seen the American flag displayed?
This easy craft is a fun way to celebrate America 250 while creating a festive decoration your family can enjoy throughout the holiday season.
Family Activities 