Abstract: There is provided a composite ceramic foam filter having an outer edge which is surrounded by a protective sleeve, with the outer edge of the filter being bonded to the inner surface of the sleeve. The composite is preferably made by forming a ceramic sleeve having an opening therein, and forming a ceramic foam filter of a size and shape to fit the opening in the sleeve; placing the filter into the sleeve opening thereby forming a composite; and drying and firing the composite thereby bonding the filter to the sleeve, resulting in a single piece. Alternatively, a dried foam filter could be placed into the opening of an unfired sleeve and the two pieces are then fired together.