Grab some tissue paper and a jar or two! Today we’re making tissue paper votive holders inspired by Ted Harrison and his Yukon paintings.
I don’t think it’s possible to view Ted Harrison’s work without smiling. Through his bold use of color, playful lines, and love for Yukon culture, he captured the natural brilliance of the northern lights, reflections on the snowy ground, and Yukon-themed cityscapes.
Drawing inspiration from Harrison’s Yukon scenes, we’re going to recreate some layered landscapes of our own with some help from a popular tissue paper on glass craft technique. And that’s where these tissue paper candle holders come into the picture.
Tissue Paper Candle Holders Inspired by Ted Harrison
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Ready to make these tissue paper candle holders? Here are the supplies you’ll need to have on hand.
Tissue Paper Candle Holders Supply List
- Tissue paper (assorted colors)
- Small glass jar (a smooth-surfaced jar works best.)
- Paint brush or sponge brush
- Mod Podge
- Scissors (optional)
Also, A Brush Full of Colour is a great resource for learning about Ted Harrison’s life and art. An added bonus, it includes a forward from Harrison himself and lots of full-color images of his work.
Step 1 – Prepare the tissue paper.
To start your candle holder project, look at some of Ted Harrison’s landscapes with your artists. After observing the lines, colors, and imagery in general, have them tear or cut strips of tissue paper to use in their designs.
Step 2 – Apply paper layers.
Next, be sure all glass jars you're using are clean and dry. Then use an old paintbrush to apply Mod Podge to a section of the jar and press strips of the tissue paper onto the Mod Podge. Working around the entire jar, continue to apply Mod Podge and secure the tissue strips as desired.
When the first layer is finished, repeat the process to build the layers of tissue paper strips that will complete the design. Don’t be afraid to add several layers! In fact, layering the strips will enhance the colors, create new shades, and reduce the opacity of the tissue paper for the final project.
Repeat steps 1 and 2 for all jars you're creating with your artists.
Step 3 – Seal the jars.
When your artists have added all the tissue cuttings needed to complete their designs, have them seal their jars with one final layer of Mod Podge. Then place them somewhere to dry.
Once the jars dry completely, you’re ready to display your Ted Harrison-inspired candle holders and enjoy.
As always, we would LOVE to see your completed candle jars. Be sure to include #masterpiecesociety in your caption and tag us when you share it on social media so we don’t miss your gorgeous work!
Looking for more art ideas inspired by great artists? Check out the following project tutorials:
- Soak stain art inspired by Helen Frankenthaler
- Drip painting inspired by Jackson Pollock
- Tile art inspired by Wassily Kandinsky
- Ink bleed painting inspired by Paul Klee
- Quilt art inspired by the Makers of Gee’s Bend
Lastly, be sure to check out Mixing with the Masters Volume 1 and Volume 2. Also, if you're a Studio Member, remember that you have access to both Mixing with the Masters volumes and our super fun Art Escapades course through your membership. Between these options, you'll have plenty of artist-inspired fun to keep you busy!
Want a FREE art lesson to inspire creativity in your child or teen?
Try Our Free Bluebird Art Lesson...
One of my favorite ways to introduce families to Masterpiece Society is our free Bluebird Art Lesson.
In this lesson, your child will create a beautiful bluebird painting while exploring color, brushwork, texture, and artistic expression.
It's designed to be approachable for young artists—and enjoyable enough that parents often want to paint along, too!
