Turn your recycling bin into a garden party with these adorable decoupage tin can planters! This craft is a fun way to upcycle old cans and give them new life with a fresh coat of paint and pretty patterned napkins. Whether you’re adding flowers to your front porch or herbs to your kitchen window, these charming planters are such a sweet way to add a little DIY flair to your space.
And one of the best parts? You can totally make them your own! Just switch up your napkins for different seasons, holidays, or colour schemes. They’re the perfect weekend craft for adults, teens, or older kids, and they make thoughtful handmade gifts, too!
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How to Make a Decoupage Tin Can Planter
Materials:
- Large tin can (28 ounce)
- Multi-surface acrylic paint (white, or colour of choice)
- Matte Mod Podge
- Decorative paper napkin
- Garden wire
Watch the step-by-step video tutorial:
Instructions:
Step 1: Find what you need
- Gather your supplies and materials.
Step 2: Prepare the can
- Remove the label from an empty large can. Then use a can opener to remove the bottom. Your can should be clean and dry.
- Use a hammer and nail to make 2 holes near the top of the can, opposite each other.This is where you’ll attach the wire to hang your planter. You can use your hammer sideways inside the can if it doesn’t fit the proper way.
- Flatten the other side of the can with your hands. The holes should be on the left and right when you do this.You should be able to do this easily, but you can use pliers to help you, if needed.
- Then use a hammer to really flatten out the bottom. Flip the can over and repeat, so you have a flat edge that’s mostly closed.
Step 3: Decorate the planter
- Paint the can with white primer or multi-surface paint. Allow to dry and then paint the back as well.(You may need a second coat, depending on the paint you use.)
- Cut a napkin so it’s just a bit bigger than the can and peel off the top (patterned) layer.Depending on the quality of your napkins, you may need to do this in stages (removing one ply and then removing the second). Go slowly and work carefully, so you don’t rip the patterned layer.
- Brush a thin coat of matte Mod Podge on one side of the can.
- Set the napkin onto the can, centering it. Slowly press it down, working in small sections at a time.
- Once the front is covered, flip the can over, add more Mod Podge, and press the napkin onto the back.
- Cut off the excess napkin once the whole planter is covered. Leave a bit extra at both the top and bottom.
- Fold the excess napkin over the top edge of the planter. Use Mod Podge to secure it inside.
- Repeat on the bottom. You should be able to use a thin paintbrush or toothpick to push the napkin edge inside the planter through the small gaps.
- Then apply a thin coat of Mod Podge over the whole outside.
Step 4: Add the wire
- Use wire cutters to cut about 20 inches of gardening wire.
- Fold the wire at the half-way mark, making a loop for hanging at the top center. Then arch the wire down and out at the bottom, where the wire will be inserted in the planter.
- Optional: Paint the wire white and allow to dry, or use white coated wire to match your planter.
- Insert the wire hanger into the sides of the planter from the inside. Then use pliers to push the ends of the wire up, securing it in place.
Step 5: Insert a plant
- Cut the corners off a sandwich sized plastic storage bag. This will give you a holder for the plant that will keep dirt from spilling out of the planter, while still offering drainage holes.
- Place the plant in the plastic bag, and add it to your planter.
- Your decoupage tin can planter is complete!
- Have fun making more tin can planters using different napkin designs!
Helpful Tips:
- Napkins can tear easily when wet, so take your time applying Mod Podge in smaller areas, instead of trying to do the whole can at once.
- Look for napkins with bright colours or bold prints. Florals, fruit, and farmhouse patterns look especially cute on white backgrounds!
What type of napkins work best for tin can decoupage?
Look for 2-ply or 3-ply decorative napkins for these hanging tin can planters. You’ll need to peel away the white backing layers to use only the top printed ply. You can find beautiful designs at dollar stores, craft shops, home decor stores, or online.
What kind of paint should I use when using tin cans as planters?
When making these tin can hanging planters, we recommend using multi-surface acrylic paint or chalk paint for a nice opaque base. A matte finish helps the napkin stick more smoothly than a glossy finish.
Can I hang these upcycled tin can planters outside?
Yes, but make sure to seal the finished DIY tin can planter with an outdoor-safe sealant if it’s going to be exposed to rain or sun. Mod Podge also makes an outdoor version for extra durability.
These decoupage tin can planters are such a fun way to reuse materials and bring a little beauty into your home or garden. With a splash of paint, a bit of Mod Podge, and a pretty napkin or two, you’ll be growing your DIY skills right alongside your plants. It’s the kind of project that’s equal parts relaxing and rewarding — and it turns out so darn cute!
Here’s even more easy DIY decor ideas:
How to Decorate Candles with Napkins
Wine Glass Painting with Flowers
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