Convert old cans into thoughtful gifts and cute decor with supplies you likely already have in your home! Before tossing those tin cans and soda cans into the recycling, reuse them as canvases for creating candles, vases, terrariums and for holding all the things we treasure!
Now during the stay in place orders of COVID-19, it's hard to get to the store to shop for gifts and even art supplies are in short stock! But people still have birthdays that need to be honored. Teachers, neighbors and friends appreciate small random acts of kindness left at their door step. Kids need things to do wile they sit at home. So this meant getting creative with unconventional supplies that I already had in my home. So I cooked a huge pot of chili. One advantage of cooking chili, is that it creates loads of cans to play with!
Soak the cans in hot soapy water, to wash away food residue and so that the labels peel off easily. Using pliers or a small hammer, knock down any jagged edges left from the can opener, so that you don't cut yourself.
Soda cans work well too. Use a can opener to remove the lid, rinse and dry!
Chalk paint works really well, although acrylic paints are good too, if that's all you have on hand. 1 layer of chalk paint looks a little shabby, but if you're planning to cover the whole can with paper, prints or gift wrap, then a single layer is sufficient.
After 2-3 coats of paint the can is already looking brand new! Dry between each layer.
Next you'll need the following supplies:
Mod Podge
sponge brushes
napkins/ gift wrap/ prints/ stickers/ contact paper
water
paper towel
Apply a layer of Mod Podge with a wet sponge brush.
Rub your sticker/ napkin/ print onto the wet surface.
Immediately apply another layer of Mod Podge and smooth out any bubbles with your fingers.
Allow the can to dry.
For a smoother finish, paint on a final coat of Mod Podge.
Accessorize with ribbons, raffia or string.
Plant a terrarium.
Insert a tea light.
Use as a container for your art supplies, pencils, pens and stationery.
Create a poured candle with a wick and some soy wax.
Or just tie on a pretty shape!
Go through verses, magazines, prints lying around collecting dust and convert them into can art.
It works in all sizes!
Or just spray the clean cans with hammered metal spray to create a vintage look!
So many options. So little time! Or a good excuse to cook another batch of chili for all your neighbors and friends!
These pretty decoupaged cans become so useful to have on hand when you're looking for a thoughtful gift to give someone.
Gift ideas:
Fill it with water and fresh cut flowers or herbs from your yard. Add a label and a ribbon. Leave it on the porch for someone who could use a pick-me up.
Or fill it with soil and plant a succulent.
Place a dozen pencils, brushes or markers into it for teacher appreciation, with a hand written note by your child.
Fill it with gravel and add a tea light for a quick candle.
Use it as a tip jar for all the coins and loose change you find in the house.
Pop in some kisses or chocolates as a sweet treat for your sweetheart.
How will you use your jars?
