How to Make Garden Lanterns from Old Tin Cans

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

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

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bd\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bd\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-1.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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.
    2. Advertisement
Part 2
Part 2 of 5:

Prepare Tin Can For Punching

PDF download Download Article

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

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6b\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6b\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-5.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This will prevent bulging of the tin can when frozen. (Water expands when it freezes.)
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-6.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1a\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1a\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-7.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7b\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7b\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-8.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Then remove the tin from the freezer.
    5. Advertisement
Part 3
Part 3 of 5:

Adding the Leaf Design

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5d\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5d\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-9.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Tape the leaf in place on the can. Check that you like the placement and size before you begin to hammer.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/10\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/10\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-10.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Consider hammering the first nail toward the top of the leaf to stabilize your design.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e1\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e1\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-11.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Space the nail holes evenly so your design appears symmetrical.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c1\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c1\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-12.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You should be able to see the same leaf pattern now outlined in nail holes on the tin can.
    5. Advertisement
Part 4
Part 4 of 5:

Spray Painting the Tin Can

PDF download Download Article

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. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/73\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/73\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-13.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Spray paint it the desired color.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/cf\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/cf\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-14.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    However, most spray paints will dry within 3 hours if left in a cool, dry area.
    3. Advertisement
Part 5
Part 5 of 5:

Assembling the Lantern

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7f\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7f\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-15.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Fill it with about a ½ cup of sand, depending upon the can size.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0a\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-16.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-16.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0a\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-16.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-16.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/04\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-17.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-17.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/04\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-17.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Step-17.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":324,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":512,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    (Or, turn on battery operated votive.) This will light up the night.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fc\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Intro.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Intro.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fc\/Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Intro.jpg\/aid2951939-v4-728px-Make-Garden-Lanterns-from-Old-Tin-Cans-Intro.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":310,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":491,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    5. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • 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.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 5 Helpful 23
  • 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.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 11
  • 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.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 8
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      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
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      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

      You Might Also Like

      How to Make a Flying Paper Sky Lantern
      How to Use an Oil Lantern
      How to
      Light a Liquid Fuel Lantern
      How to
      Launch a Sky Lantern
      Advertisement

      References

      1. http://www.finegardening.com/how-to/articles/garden-lanterns.aspx – research source

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 139,776 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement