Punched tin cans are the ultimate freebie, recycled craft. The project uses tin cans that I can grab after cooking green beans, a bit of paint, a hammer, and a nail. I bet you already have all that around the house! Punched tin cans can pull double duty– decor by day and luminary by night! These Americana Punched Tin Cans are especially fun for July 4th and go with a cookout from day to night. I was surprised at how easy these were to make. So go make a can of green beans, then hop in and join the fun!
Supply List:
- Clean and dry empty tin cans
- Paint
- Nail
- Hammer
- Water
- Dry Rice
- Rubber Band
- Star Stencil
Begin by adding support to the tin cans. Fine Gardening gives a great tip for this- fill the cans halfway with dry rice. Then add water to the top of the can. Place the can in the freezer for several hours until the mixture is completely frozen. This means that you’ll have to plan ahead for this project. I underestimated how long that it would take the mixture to freeze and pulled one of the cans out to soon. As a result, I had a small dented section at the bottom of one of the cans. If doing again, I would allow a minimum of a half a day for freezing.
Take the tin can out of the freezer. Grab the stencil, which can be as simple as a small shape. I cut my stars out with my Cricut cartridge. Attach the shape to the can with a rubber band. It will not be totally secure, so watch out for this while working. Since the can builds up condensation after coming out of the freezer, it is hard to find other ways to attach the shape. A rubber band or two works well, depending on the shape.
Using the nail and hammer, punch holes around the shape. You’ll feel the nail “give” through the tin when punching the holes. Complete this around the shape. You’ll noticed on this one where I have a bit of “denting.” This is the one that I did not allow enough time to freeze.
Remove the star and rubber bands. Turn the cans upside down to melt and empty. I went redneck and did this in the backyard.
After the cans are completely dry, spray paint them patriotic colors.
Done! Now go wipe your booty and make these Americana Napkin Rings {from toilet paper inserts}.
So festive, Melanie – I love these! Pinning and stumbling 🙂
Such a great project!
I always wanted to try this. Distressed art is always so interesting. 🙂
What an excellent idea! Love it!
great project that could be used for quick decor and the best part is that it’s from a green bean can!
Love the matching napkin rings too.
This is such a cute and easy way to add decor to a 4th of July display! Thanks so much for sharing!
I’ve been saving cans to make some of these and I didn’t know about the rice, water and freezing part. Thanks for sharing!
Yes, it’s a definite must! Otherwise the cans just dent!
These cans are adorable!! You make them look so easy too! I might even make them in different colors so I could use them all summer long. I would love it if you linked this up to my Motivate Me Monday linky party!