How to Make a Decorative Lantern Using Tin Cans
According to Scholastic Books, lanterns made from tin signaled slaves of the Underground Railroad that it was safe to cross the Ohio River. They also provided lights for homes according to the authors of Rams Horn Studio. Though the use of tin lanterns has become passe in the home after the invention of advanced lighting, when you plan your next outdoor get-together with family or friends, make your own tin-can lanterns to decorate the patio. The lanterns require little time and skill to create, and they allow you to match any party theme you desire. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Wire
- Nails
- Pliers
- Water
- Freezer
- Patterns
- Tin cans
- Marker
- Tape
- Hammer
- Thin rope
- Spray paint (optional)
- Tea light candles (optional)
Instructions
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Choose a theme or style you want to place on your lantern. Draw or locate a pattern and adjust it to fit the size of the tin can you choose to use. Mark the pattern with dots on key points to create an outline of the design. Make enough copies of the pattern to have one for each tin can. Match the design on your lanterns or vary it from can to can.
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Remove the lid of a tin can with a can opener that leaves no sharp edges. Empty the contents, then thoroughly wash and dry the can. Fill the can with water and place it in the freezer. Once the water freezes, remove it and begin your project.
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Tape the pattern to the can. Using a hammer and nail, cut holes through every dot on the pattern to penetrate the tin can. Remove the pattern and hammer two holes directly across from one another, 1/2 inch from the top of the can. Allow the ice to thaw and dump it out.
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Make a handle for each lantern. Cut 7-inch strips from the wire. Place one end of the wire through one of the last two top holes that you made. The wire should go into the can from the outside. Use the pliers to fold the edge of the wire up 1/2 inch from the end. Repeat the process on the other side of the can. Once the wire handle is folded into place, two options remain: place a tea light candle inside and hang your lantern, or paint your lantern with spray paint.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear gloves to protect your hands from the coldness of the can.
Wear safety goggles when using the hammer and nails.
References
- Photo Credit open tin can image by Melking from Fotolia.com
