How to Decorate Garbage Cans

Garbage cans are not exactly the most stylish object in a home. They can look boring and dirty. In order to make a garbage can look more like a piece of art rather than a dumping ground for trash, consider putting your own style to it. It should cost you only a little money, and it can create a topic of conversation in your home.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mod Podge
• Foam Brush
• Spray paint
• Paint
• Paintbrush
• Stencils
• Fabric
• Velcro
• Small teddy bears
• Food labels
• Scissors

1. Decorate with labels. Consider decorating your garbage can with the labels from food items that you would normally throw out. For example, take the label off a soup can or a candy bar wrapper and adhere it onto the outside of the can by using Mod Podge applied with a foam brush. You can even decorate it with cutout fronts of cereal boxes. You can have it be mix and match or make a theme, such as all candy bar wrappers or all soup labels.

2. Wrap it in unwanted fabric. Take a piece of fabric that you no longer want and adhere it to the garbage can. Measure and cut the fabric according to the shape of the can. If you have a square garbage can, cut the fabric into four sections, plus an additional piece for the lid. Instead of adhering the fabric to the garbage can by gluing it, use Velcro. Put one long strip on the garbage can and another on the fabric so when you need to clean it, you can remove the fabric and wash it.

3. Paint a scene on it. If you have artistic talent, or know someone who does, paint a scene on the garbage can that is reflective of the theme in the room. For example, if you have a beach-themed bathroom, paint seashells on the garbage can. If you are not able to do a scene freehand, use stencils to paint your scenes on. You can also use spray paint to spray the stenciled image onto the outside surface of the can.

4. Create a themed garbage can according to a child's interests. There are several fun ideas you can use to decorate her garbage can. If she loves stuffed animals, purchase a bunch of small bears, which you can buy in bulk, and stick them all over the garbage can by using Velcro. If she loves animals, adhere pictures all over the can by using Mod Podge applied with a foam brush.