how do i drain oil from oil filter without making a huge mess?

Just prepare lots of rags/shoptowels if it isn't self explanatory,

First time you do an oilchange on any car, you'll figure out which way the oil goes, then you can prepare funnels, chutes or other path to the drain receptacle next time.

use a rag to catch excess oil, get a better drain pan that has a spot to set the filter. or you could just change your oil on a dirt patch like i do and the oil spot goes away as it gets absorbed by the dirt. just try not to let too much get on the dirt, i hear oil is not that great for the environment.