https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/tin-can-luminary • Posted by Ryland Peters & Small
Empty tin cans become sturdy lanterns ready to add glittering light to any dim place that could benefit from a bit of magic. Make as many as you like and use them to cast a subtle glow along a walkway or down some steps, or to add ambiance to a romantic dinner served outside on a warm summer night.
Empty tin cans become sturdy lanterns ready to add glittering light to any dim place that could benefit from a bit of magic. Make as many as you like and use them to cast a subtle glow along a walkway or down some steps, or to add ambiance to a romantic dinner served outside on a warm summer night.
Prepare the cans by removing any labels and washing and drying the cans thoroughly inside and out to avoid rusting. Carefully tap down any jagged edges with a small hammer.
Fill the can almost to the top with water and place in the freezer for a couple of hours—you need the water inside to just-freeze. Leaving the can in the freezer for an extended period of time can cause the bottom to expand and warp, making it unsteady as a fixture.
Remove the can from the freezer and draw a simple shape such as a heart on the best side of the can.
Prepare a sturdy surface where you can hammer a pattern into the can. The best bets are a table over a cork board or cutting board, or outdoors at a picnic table, with the can supported by a couple of bricks propped on a dishtowel. Carefully hammer the end of a nail just through the can and then pull out; repeat at intervals around the shape to create a pattern of small holes. If you plan to hang your luminary, make two holes at the top of the can on either side so you can attach a handle. When all the hammering is completed, drain and dry the can.
Use a foam brush to paint the can using a craft paint meant for metal, or latex paint. You can also use spray paint but be prepared for occasional drips. Apply as many coats as desired, allowing the can to dry thoroughly between coats.
If you want to hang your luminary, thread a sturdy piece of wire through and fasten well either by bending or tying. TINKER TIPS To loosen a stubborn label, submerge the can in warm, soapy water and leave overnight. Work quickly to make all the holes before the ice melts, but take care when hammering and focus on completing one hole at a time. Take all the usual precautions when using candles, or use small battery-operated votives. The handle from a Chinese food take-out carton makes a good hanging device. FANCY THIS Hammer out other patterns such as numbers, simple flower shapes, and stars.