Are you sitting on a pile of empty cans, wondering what to do with them? Don’t throw them away just yet! Empty cans can be repurposed into a variety of handicrafts that will add a touch of creativity and personality to your home. From rustic wall decor to practical storage solutions, these 10 clever ways to repurpose empty cans will inspire you to think outside the box and make the most of your trash. Get ready to transform those empty cans into something beautiful and functional!
Transforming Empty Cans into Useful Items
Creating a DIY Candle Holder
If you’re looking for a creative way to repurpose those empty soda cans, why not turn them into a DIY candle holder? Not only is this project easy to do, but it also adds a rustic and charming touch to your home decor.
Materials needed:
- Empty soda can
- Scissors
- Wick
- Melting wax
- Paint or decorative spray (optional)
Steps:
- Clean and sanitize the can: Before starting, make sure to clean and sanitize the can thoroughly. Remove any labels or stickers and rinse it with soap and water. Let it dry completely before proceeding.
- Paint or decorate the can: You can choose to paint the can with a coat of paint in your desired color or use a decorative spray to add some personality to it. If you choose to paint the can, make sure to wait for it to dry completely before continuing.
- Attach a wick: To create a candle holder, you’ll need to attach a wick to the top of the can. To do this, cut a piece of wick that is long enough to reach the bottom of the can and insert it into the center of the can. Secure it in place with some hot glue or wax.
- Melt wax: You’ll need to melt some wax to fill the can. You can use a microwave or a double boiler to melt the wax. Once the wax is melted, carefully pour it into the can, making sure to fill it to the top.
- Allow the wax to cool and harden: Let the wax cool and harden completely. This may take a few hours, depending on the size of the can and the amount of wax used. Once the wax is hard, your DIY candle holder is ready to use.
By following these simple steps, you can transform an empty soda can into a beautiful and functional candle holder that you can use to add some rustic charm to your home decor.
Turning a Can into a Planter
- Drill holes for drainage: To prevent water from accumulating and causing the roots to rot, it is important to drill holes for drainage. The holes should be large enough for water to escape, but small enough to prevent soil from spilling out. You can use a 1/2 inch drill bit or a nail to make the holes. Place the holes at the bottom of the can, about an inch above the base.
- Add soil and plant seeds or seedlings: Once you have drilled the holes, you can add soil to the can. Fill the can about 2/3 full of soil, leaving enough room for water to be added later. Plant seeds or seedlings in the soil, making sure they are not too deep. Water the soil lightly after planting.
- Place the can in a sunny location: After planting the seeds or seedlings, place the can in a sunny location. The can should be placed in a location where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. This will ensure that the plants have enough light to grow. If you do not have a sunny location, you can also place the can near a window that receives a lot of sunlight.
Making a Trivet or Coaster
Transforming an empty can into a trivet or coaster is a practical and stylish way to add a touch of creativity to your home decor. Here’s how you can make one:
- Clean and sanitize the can: Remove any labels or residue from the can using a mild detergent and warm water. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely.
- Paint or decorate the can: Choose a color or design that complements your home decor and apply a layer of paint or decorative finish to the can using a brush or spray paint. Allow the paint to dry completely.
- Add a layer of cork or foam board: Attach a layer of cork or foam board to the bottom of the can using a strong adhesive. This will provide insulation and protect your surfaces from heat.
- Allow the material to dry: Allow the cork or foam board to dry completely before placing the trivet or coaster on your table or countertop.
With just a few simple steps, you can transform an empty can into a functional and stylish trivet or coaster that will add a unique touch to your home decor.
Repurposing a Can as a Pencil Holder
When it comes to repurposing empty cans, a pencil holder is a simple yet effective option. Here’s how you can turn a can into a functional pencil holder:
- Clean and Sanitize the Can: Before you start, make sure to clean and sanitize the can thoroughly. Remove any labels or residue from the surface of the can.
- Paint or Decorate the Can: Once the can is clean, you can start decorating it. You can use paint, markers, or any other crafting material to give the can a new look. This step is optional, but it can add a personal touch to your pencil holder.
- Punch Holes for Pencils: The next step is to punch holes on the sides of the can. This will allow the pencils to fit snugly inside the can. Use a drill or a hole punch to create the holes. Make sure the holes are evenly spaced and large enough to accommodate the pencils.
- Add a Lid or Top to the Can: Finally, you’ll need to add a lid or top to the can. This will keep the pencils in place and prevent them from falling out. You can use a scrap piece of wood, a plastic lid, or any other material that fits the size of the can. Cut the material to fit the top of the can and secure it in place using glue or nails.
By following these steps, you can easily repurpose an empty can into a functional pencil holder. This is a great way to give new life to old cans and create a useful item for your workspace or home office.
Turning a Can into a Magazine Holder
When it comes to repurposing empty cans, turning them into a magazine holder is a great way to put them to use. Here are the steps to make this craft:
- Clean and Sanitize the Can: Before you start any project, it’s important to clean and sanitize the can. Use soap and water to remove any dirt or debris, and then rinse the can thoroughly. Allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
- Paint or Decorate the Can: Once the can is clean and dry, you can start decorating it. You can use paint, stickers, or any other decorative item to add a personal touch to the magazine holder. Get creative and have fun with it!
- Cut or Fold the Can to Create Compartments: Depending on the size of the can, you may need to cut or fold it to create compartments for the magazines. Use scissors or a utility knife to make the necessary cuts, and then fold the edges to create a sturdy container.
- Add a Lid or Top to the Can: To keep the magazines from falling out, you’ll need to add a lid or top to the can. You can use a scrap piece of wood or cardboard to create a simple lid, or you can find a lid that fits the can at a local hardware store. Attach the lid securely to the can using glue or nails.
By following these steps, you can easily turn an empty can into a functional and stylish magazine holder. This project is a great way to give new life to old cans and create a useful item for your home.
Creating a Decorative Wall Hanging
When it comes to repurposing empty cans, one creative idea is to turn them into decorative wall hangings. Not only does this give new life to old cans, but it also adds a unique touch to your home decor. Here’s how you can create your own decorative wall hanging:
- Clean and Sanitize the Can
Before you start decorating the can, it’s important to clean and sanitize it thoroughly. Rinse out any remaining contents and remove any labels or stickers. Use a mild soap and warm water to clean the can, and then let it air dry completely.
- Paint or Decorate the Can
Once the can is clean and dry, you can start decorating it. You can use paint, markers, or even stickers to add some color and personality to the can. Consider what style or theme you want to go with, and choose colors and designs that match.
- Add a Cord or Wire for Hanging
To turn the can into a wall hanging, you’ll need to add a cord or wire for hanging. You can use a piece of twine or string, or you can cut a longer piece of wire to use as a hanger. Attach the cord or wire to the top of the can, making sure it’s secure and sturdy.
- Display the Can on a Wall
Once you’ve finished decorating the can and adding a hanger, it’s time to display it on a wall. Choose a spot in your home where you think the wall hanging will look best, and then use nails or screws to securely attach the can to the wall. Step back and admire your handiwork – your empty can is now a beautiful decorative wall hanging!
Transforming a Can into a Birdhouse
- Clean and sanitize the can: The first step in transforming an empty can into a birdhouse is to thoroughly clean and sanitize it. This is important to ensure that the birdhouse is safe and free of any harmful bacteria or chemicals.
- Paint or decorate the can: Once the can has been cleaned and sanitized, it can be painted or decorated to give it a fresh and vibrant look. This is a great opportunity to get creative and add some personal touches to the birdhouse.
- Cut or remove the bottom of the can: After the can has been painted or decorated, the next step is to cut or remove the bottom of the can. This will allow birds to enter and exit the birdhouse.
- Add a perch and a birdhouse entrance: To complete the birdhouse, a perch should be added to the inside of the can. This will provide a comfortable place for birds to perch and rest. Additionally, a birdhouse entrance should be added to the front of the can. This can be done by cutting a small hole in the front of the can and attaching a door or a piece of mesh to keep the birds safe.
- Display the birdhouse in a tree or on a fence: Once the birdhouse has been completed, it can be displayed in a tree or on a fence. This will provide a safe and cozy home for birds to nest and raise their young.
By following these steps, an empty can can be transformed into a charming birdhouse that will add a touch of nature to any yard or garden.
Using Empty Cans as Inspiration for Art
Creating a Sculpture from Empty Cans
When it comes to repurposing empty cans, one of the most creative ways to use them is by creating a sculpture. This project can be both fun and rewarding, and the end result will be a unique piece of art that can be displayed in your home or garden. Here are the steps to create a sculpture from empty cans:
- Clean and sanitize the cans: Before you start arranging the cans, it’s important to clean and sanitize them to remove any residue or debris. You can use soap and water to clean the cans, and then rinse them thoroughly.
- Arrange the cans in a desired shape or pattern: Once the cans are clean, you can start arranging them in the shape or pattern you desire. You can use a single color or create a pattern with different colors. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity guide you.
- Use wire or other materials to connect the cans: Once you have arranged the cans in the desired shape, you will need to connect them to keep them in place. You can use wire or other materials to connect the cans, such as string or rope. This will help hold the sculpture together and make it sturdy.
- Add paint or other decorations to the sculpture: After the cans are connected, you can add paint or other decorations to the sculpture. You can use spray paint or acrylic paint to add color to the sculpture, or you can add other decorations such as beads or other materials to enhance the design.
Creating a sculpture from empty cans is a great way to repurpose them and create a unique piece of art. It’s a fun and creative project that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With a little bit of effort and creativity, you can turn empty cans into a beautiful work of art that will be enjoyed for years to come.
Using Empty Cans to Create a Mosaic
When it comes to repurposing empty cans, one creative idea is to use them as inspiration for art. By turning empty cans into a mosaic, you can create a unique piece of art that is both functional and decorative. Here’s how you can do it:
- Clean and Sanitize the Cans
Before you start creating your mosaic, it’s important to clean and sanitize the cans. This will ensure that the final product is free from any dirt or debris that may have accumulated over time. You can use soap and water to clean the cans, or you can use a mixture of vinegar and water to remove any stubborn stains. - Arrange the Cans in a Desired Pattern
Once the cans are clean and sanitized, you can start arranging them in a desired pattern. This can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be. You can arrange the cans in a random pattern, or you can create a specific design or image. The key is to experiment with different arrangements until you find one that you like. - Add Grout or Other Adhesive Between the Cans
Once you have arranged the cans in the desired pattern, it’s time to add grout or other adhesive between the cans. This will help hold the cans in place and prevent them from moving around. You can use a variety of adhesives for this step, including epoxy, silicone, or construction adhesive. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package to ensure a strong bond. - Add Grout or Other Decorations to the Mosaic
After the cans are secured in place, you can add grout or other decorations to the mosaic. Grout is a great option for filling in any gaps between the cans and creating a solid surface. You can also add other decorations, such as beads, stones, or tiles, to add texture and interest to the mosaic. Be creative and have fun with it!
Overall, using empty cans to create a mosaic is a great way to repurpose old cans and turn them into something new and beautiful. With a little bit of creativity and patience, you can create a unique piece of art that will add style and personality to any room in your home.
Turning Empty Cans into a Wind Chime
If you’re looking for a unique and creative way to repurpose empty cans, why not turn them into a wind chime? This project is not only fun, but it’s also a great way to add a touch of nature to your home decor. Here’s how to get started:
Clean and Sanitize the Cans
Before you start drilling holes and adding decorations, it’s important to clean and sanitize the cans. This will help prevent any lingering odors or residue from affecting the final product. To clean the cans, simply wash them with soap and water, then let them dry completely.
Drill Holes in the Cans
Once the cans are clean and dry, it’s time to drill holes in them. The size of the holes will depend on the size of the beads or other decorations you plan to add later. Use a drill and a small drill bit to create the holes. Start slowly and carefully to avoid breaking the cans.
Add a String or Wire for Hanging
Once the holes are drilled, it’s time to add a string or wire for hanging. You can use any type of string or wire, but it’s important to choose something sturdy enough to support the weight of the wind chime. Attach the string or wire to the top of each can using strong adhesive or a screw.
Add Beads or Other Decorations to the Wind Chime
Finally, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your wind chime. Choose beads or other decorations that complement your home decor and personal style. Attach the beads or decorations to the string or wire using strong adhesive or a screw.
And that’s it! With just a few simple steps, you can turn empty cans into a beautiful wind chime that will add a touch of nature to your home decor.
Creating a Collage from Empty Cans
* Remove any labels or residue from the cans
* Wash the cans with soap and water
* Dry the cans thoroughly
* Experiment with different arrangements to find the desired pattern
* Consider the size and shape of the cans when arranging them
* Use a ruler or measuring tape to ensure straight lines
- Add Glue or Other Adhesive to Attach the Cans
- Choose an appropriate adhesive for the project
- Apply a thin layer of glue or adhesive to the back of each can
- Allow the glue to dry completely before moving on to the next step
- Add Paint or Other Decorations to the Collage
- Choose a color scheme for the collage
- Use paint, markers, or other craft supplies to decorate the cans
- Add details such as lines, shapes, or patterns to enhance the design
By following these steps, you can create a unique and eye-catching collage using empty cans. This project is a great way to repurpose items that would otherwise go to waste, and it can also be a fun and creative activity for both adults and children.
Using Empty Cans to Create a Mobile
When it comes to repurposing empty cans, one of the most creative ways to use them is to create a mobile. A mobile is a decorative object that hangs from the ceiling or a wall, and it can be made using a variety of materials, including empty cans. Here are the steps to create a mobile using empty cans:
The first step in creating a mobile using empty cans is to clean and sanitize them. This is important because you don’t want any dirt or debris to interfere with the aesthetics of your mobile. To clean the cans, you can use soap and water or a cleaning solution that is safe for metal surfaces. Be sure to scrub the cans thoroughly and rinse them well before proceeding.
Arrange the Cans in a Desired Pattern
Once the cans are clean and sanitized, you can begin arranging them in a desired pattern. This is the fun part of creating a mobile because you can get as creative as you want with the arrangement. You can arrange the cans in a circular pattern, a linear pattern, or any other pattern that you like. You can also experiment with different sizes and shapes of cans to create a unique look.
Add String or Wire for Hanging
Once you have arranged the cans in a desired pattern, you can add string or wire for hanging. This will allow you to hang the mobile from the ceiling or a wall. You can use thin wire or string that is strong enough to support the weight of the cans. Be sure to measure the length of the string or wire carefully so that the mobile hangs at the desired height.
Add Beads or Other Decorations to the Mobile
Finally, you can add beads or other decorations to the mobile to give it a personal touch. You can use beads, ribbons, or other materials to add color and texture to the mobile. You can also add small trinkets or charms to the mobile to give it a whimsical feel. The possibilities are endless when it comes to decorating a mobile using empty cans.
FAQs
1. What can I make with empty cans?
There are many things you can make with empty cans! Here are ten clever ways to repurpose them into handicrafts:
1. Umbrella stand: You can turn an empty can into a unique umbrella stand by drilling holes on the sides and bottom of the can. Add a flat base and some paint, and you have a stylish umbrella stand.
2. Pencil holder: To make a pencil holder, simply remove the label from an empty can and paint it. Then, drill a hole near the top of the can for the pencils to fit through.
3. Plant pot: Empty cans can be used as plant pots. Remove the label, drill drainage holes on the bottom, and add some soil and plants.
4. Table lamp: To make a table lamp, spray paint an empty can and attach a socket and a cord. Add a light bulb and some screws, and you have a stylish table lamp.
5. Wall art: You can turn an empty can into wall art by painting it with acrylic paint and attaching a dowel rod to the top. Hang it on the wall, and you have a unique piece of art.
6. Piggy bank: Empty cans can be turned into piggy banks by cutting off the top, removing the label, and adding a lid.
7. Drink holder: To make a drink holder, cut an empty can in half and bend the edges inward to create a funnel shape. Then, spray paint it and add a handle.
8. Flower pot holder: You can turn an empty can into a flower pot holder by painting it and adding a base. Add some flowers, and you have a beautiful display.
9. Pen holder: To make a pen holder, remove the label from an empty can and paint it. Then, drill a hole near the top of the can for the pen to fit through.
10. Mirror: Empty cans can be used as mirrors by attaching a piece of mirrored glass to the top. Add a frame and some glitter, and you have a glamorous mirror.
2. What materials do I need to repurpose empty cans?
To repurpose empty cans, you will need some basic materials such as:
* Empty cans of different sizes
* Paint (optional)
* Drill with a drill bit (for larger cans)
* Sandpaper (optional)
* A saw (for larger cans)
* A hammer (optional)
* Glue (optional)
* Mirrored glass (optional)
* Frame (optional)
* Screws and nails (optional)
* Soil (for plant pots)
* Seeds or plants (for plant pots)
* A socket and cord (for table lamps)
* A light bulb (for table lamps)
* A dowel rod (for wall art)
* Flower pot base (for flower pot holders)
* Flowers (for flower pot holders)
* A pen (for pen holders)
3. Can I paint the empty cans?
Yes, you can paint the empty cans to give them a new look. Spray paint works well, but you can also use acrylic paint if you prefer. Make sure to let the paint dry completely before using the can for your craft.
4. How do I make a pencil holder from an empty can?
To make a pencil holder from an empty can, remove the label from the can and paint it. Then, drill a hole near the top of the can for the pencils to fit through. You can add some cute decorations to make it even more special.
5. Can I use any type of empty can for repurposing?
Yes, you can use any type of empty can for repurposing. However, larger cans may require more materials and tools to work with. It’s best to start with smaller cans for easier repurposing.
6. Can I make more than one craft from an empty can?
Yes, you can make more than one craft from an empty can. For example, you can turn an empty can into a pencil holder and then use the same can to make a flower pot holder. Get creative and see what you can come up with!
7. Are empty cans safe to use for crafts?
Empty cans are generally safe to use for crafts, but it’s always a good idea to check with the manufacturer to make sure they are safe for your intended use. Additionally, make sure to remove any labels or linings from the cans before using them for crafts.
