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Light up the night repurposing old tin cans. That summertime, rustic appeal will add warmth and a glow to any balmy summer evening. All you will need are tin cans (of any size), leaves to use as a pattern and a hammer and nails.

Part 1
Part 1 of 5:

Cleaning the Tin Can

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  1. Open each tin can and remove the top (along with any contents). Remove labels and wash with warm soapy water. Dry completely.
    • Discard any cans that are damaged or rusted.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 5:

Prepare Tin Can For Punching

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Freezing the tin can first will prevent your tin from being deformed once you start hammering it.

  1. This will prevent bulging of the tin can when frozen. (Water expands when it freezes.)
  2. Then remove the tin from the freezer.
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Part 3
Part 3 of 5:

Adding the Leaf Design

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  1. Tape the leaf in place on the can. Check that you like the placement and size before you begin to hammer.
  2. Consider hammering the first nail toward the top of the leaf to stabilize your design.
  3. Space the nail holes evenly so your design appears symmetrical.
  4. You should be able to see the same leaf pattern now outlined in nail holes on the tin can.
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Part 4
Part 4 of 5:

Spray Painting the Tin Can

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Spray paint the can after you’ve created the design, so that you don’t disturb the paint (painting beforehand may create a more rough exterior).

  1. Spray paint it the desired color.
  2. However, most spray paints will dry within 3 hours if left in a cool, dry area.
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Part 5
Part 5 of 5:

Assembling the Lantern

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  1. Fill it with about a ½ cup of sand, depending upon the can size.
  2. (Or, turn on battery operated votive.) This will light up the night.
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    Why do I need to freeze the can?
    Community Answer
    This is needed so that the tin stays firm. The ice will help put nice indents in the tin. Otherwise, the tin will just bend and be flimsy.
  • Question
    When and how do I remove the frozen sand from the can?
    Enigma
    Community Answer
    Wait for the ice to melt, and you can then just pour the sand away.
  • Question
    If using in the garden, would it be worth trying to make a lid for it? Very keen to try this out, but unsure how to make a lid.
    Enigma
    Community Answer
    You shouldn't use a lid unless your votive us a battery-powered one. Placing a lid on the can will reduce the oxygen needed by the flame.
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      Tips

      • Use differently sized cans to add interest and to enhance a variety of areas in your yard.
      • Hang a series of such lanterns by hammering holes on two sides of the top of each lantern can. Thread a wire through each end and loop and secure ends to the can. Hang on trees or posts around the yard, being careful to keep them away from anything flammable.
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      Things You'll Need

      • Tin cans
      • Large leaves for your pattern (green leaves are stronger, you'll need leaves that can handle hammering)

      • A bucket of sand to hold the candles in place
      • As many nails as possible and your hammer to create the pattern
      • Masking tape
      • Spray paint
      • Votive candles; consider using battery operated votive candles to reduce the risk of fire

      About This Article

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        Sep 6, 2016

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