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Recycled Tin Can Lanterns
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How to Make Tin Can Lanterns

These tin can lanterns are so easy to make, and they look so pretty! They light up the night beautifully, leaving patterned reflections of light on every surface. Make your own DIY lantern today!
Active Time45 minutes
Drying Time3 hours
Total Time3 hours 45 minutes
Yield: 1 tin can lantern
Author: Debbie Chapman
Cost: $1

Equipment

Materials

Instructions

Step 1: Find what you need

  • Gather your supplies and materials.
    Tin can lanterns supplies

Step 2: Prepare the tin can

  • Begin by filling the tin can with wheat kernels or another item (read more options below).
    This helps support the metal while you hammer in the nail holes, keeping it from losing its shape.
    Tin can lanterns
  • Now use masking tape to seal the top of the can, keeping the wheat in place.
    Tin can lanterns
  • We used long strips of tape and then added another piece around the can to keep them in place.
    Tin can lanterns

Step 3: Add the template

  • Add a layer of sand to a baking tray.
    Tin can lanterns
  • Then nestle the can into the sand. This will help keep the can in place while you hammer the holes.
    If you don’t have sand, you can use a folded towel, rice, or a non-slip mat to help stop the can from rolling. Sand works especially well because it molds around the curved can and keeps it steadier as you work.
    Tin can lanterns
  • Print one of our free templates. Find one linked in the materials list above, with lots more options listed below.
    Tin can lanterns
  • Cut around the template so it fits on the can and then tape it in place.
    Tin can lanterns

Step 4: Make holes in the can

  • Hammer a nail into the can on one of the lines of the template.
    Tin can lanterns
  • Remove the nail from the can.
    Tin can lanterns
  • Repeat, hammering holes about 1/4 inch apart.
    Tin can lanterns
  • Go around the template making holes until the whole shape is hammered in.
    Tin can lanterns

Step 5: Paint the lantern

  • Remove the template and tape from your can. Pour the wheat kernels back into its bag to be used again.
    Tin can lanterns
  • Paint the outside of the can with multi-surface acrylic paint. We find a fan brush does the best job at not leaving brush marks on the can.
    Allow to dry.
    Tin can lanterns
  • Add fairy lights or another light source into your lantern and put it on display!
    Tin can lanterns
  • Your tin can lantern is complete!
    Tin can lanterns
  • Have fun making different designs and watch them light up the night.
    Tin can lanterns

Video

Notes

Looking for more recycled craft ideas? Here's a few of our favourites:
Decoupage Tin Can Planters
Bunny Tin Can Planters
Plastic Cup Lighthouse Craft