Summer DIY Project – Tin Can Lanterns Craft

Summer is in full swing and it’s time for grilling, picnics, and backyard parties. After sweating in the sun all day, invite some friends over for a get-together in the evening. Decorate your outdoors with these easy-to-make tin can lanterns that beautify spaces without costing a pretty penny. They have tiny holes which create gorgeous scattered light patterns. Most of the materials are readily available. Follow these simple steps to carry out this summer DIY project.

Summer DIY Project – Tin Can Lanterns Craft

Image via: Casadex

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Materials:

Recycled tin cans

Nail

Hammer

Bailing wire

Spray paint

Pliers

Tea light candle

Outlines (natural or printed)

Sellotape

Sand

Directions

1. Remove labels from the cans with warm soapy water. Cut out the tops and remove any contents.
2. Fill the tins with ¾ sand and water and put them in the freezer. Remove them when the ice is solid. Freezing prevents the cans from being deformed and sand prevents bulging.
3. Remove one can from the freezer and make 2 holes on opposite sides near its top using the nail and hammer.
4. Use sellotape to fix the outline to the can. Make sure you like the placement before you start hammering.
5. Hammer on the outer sides of the outline before you hammer inside. Space the nail holes evenly to create a symmetrical pattern.
6. Once you’ve created a design, let the ice melt out then dry the tin.
7. Remove the outline to showcase the design. Cut a strip of bailing wire and bend its ends to form hooks. Stick these through the top side holes.
8. Repeat the above processes on the other cans
9. Spray paint the cans. Do not paint the cans before hammering as this may create a rough exterior.
10. Leave the tins to dry for about one day.
11. Fill the bottom of the cans with sand. Place the tea light candles inside and light them.

 

Image via: Tip Junkie

Lights are a unique design element. They can create a magical scene that lures and enchants. Unfortunately, most outdoor lights are expensive. If you want to brighten up your exterior without spending a lot of money, try this summer DIY project. It is not only ideal for summer, it can be reinvented throughout the year for parties, birthdays, and festive events.

For more summer crafts on Stagetecture, click here.