How to Make Decorative Lanterns From Tin Cans

Punched tin lanterns made from recycled tin cans make a delightful luminary reminiscent of the days when they were used to light the way on dark winter nights. Tin lanterns hung in windows during the holidays, or on the deck for summer gatherings, provide a soft glow of light that shines through the punched tin designs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tin cans
• Nail
• Hammer
• Paper templates
• Heavy gauge wire
• Acrylic paints (optional)

1. Select recycled tin cans in the sizes of your choice. Gallon paint cans make a dramatic outdoor display and already have the handles attached. Smaller soup or sauce cans are suitable for hanging in a window or setting on a mantle.

2. Choose cans that have a smooth finish without ridges or grooves for best results. Remove the labels and scrub away any remaining glue residue. Remove stubborn glue by pouring boiling water over the area to melt the glue.

3. Scrub the glue away before it has time to cool. Wash the cans in hot soapy water, then rinse and dry thoroughly. Measure the distance around the can, as well as the height of the can. Note the dimensions.

4. Fill the cans with water and place in the freezer overnight to freeze. Prepare paper stencils to the size of the can by tracing the desired design onto plain paper. Keep in mind that you will be punching the outline of the image. Simple designs that are easily recognizable by the outline are best.

5. Consider star bursts, diamonds, and circles. A simple row of punched dots around the rim, or at intervals, looks great, too. Mark the outline with evenly-spaced dots. Use care to provide enough space between dots as the punched hole will be slightly larger than the hand drawn dots.

6. Remove the cans from the freezer once they are completely frozen. Remove only the can you desire to work with and leave additional cans in the freezer until you are ready to work with them. Tape the paper template to the outside of the can. Use care that the tape does not cover any of the template design. Work on a solid surface.

7. Punch holes with a large nail at the points where you have drawn dots in your template. Complete the design and remove the template. Punch two small holes on opposite sides of the lantern just below the rim to attach handles.

8. Allow the ice to melt and empty the can. Dry completely with a soft towel.Spray the lantern in any color you choose or leave plain, if you prefer. Attach the wire loop for a handle and insert a small candle. Light the candle and display your tin punched lantern in a window or on the mantle.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use caution when lighting candles around young children and pets that may accidentally knock them over.