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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.
Steps
Freezing the tin can first will prevent your tin from being deformed once you start hammering it.
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Choose a suitable leaf to place on tin can. Tape the leaf in place on the can. Check that you like the placement and size before you begin to hammer.
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Tap the first nail into the leaf, being careful not to rip or break the leaf. Consider hammering the first nail toward the top of the leaf to stabilize your design.
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Hammer the remaining nails around the perimeter of the leaf in order to create a pattern. Space the nail holes evenly so your design appears symmetrical.
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Remove the nails and pull or tear off the leaf to expose the design. You should be able to see the same leaf pattern now outlined in nail holes on 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).
Community Q&A
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QuestionWhy do I need to freeze the can?Community AnswerThis 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.
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QuestionWhen and how do I remove the frozen sand from the can?EnigmaCommunity AnswerWait for the ice to melt, and you can then just pour the sand away.
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QuestionIf 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.EnigmaCommunity AnswerYou 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.Thanks
- 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.Thanks
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Things You'll Need
- Tin cans
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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
References
- http://www.finegardening.com/how-to/articles/garden-lanterns.aspx – research source
About This Article
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Reader Success Stories
- "I think that this is a wonderful creation. I got my kids into doing it too! They told me to search more about wikiHow so that we can do more things with tin cans! I have never seen them so excited. Thank you." ..." more
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"I think that this is a wonderful creation. I got my kids into doing it too! They told me to search more about wikiHow so that we can do more things with tin cans! I have never seen them so excited. Thank you."
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"I have has trouble with tin cans bulging when freezing them for punching. I like this sand trick!"
