How to Build a Model Airplane Out of Pop Cans

Upcycle an empty pop can into a model airplane.

Upcycling is taking recycled materials and re-purposing them into a new product. In the past few years, this practice has become very trendy. You can even see upcycled crafts, fashion and home accessories for sale in fashionable retail stores.
This craft is a fun one for a parent and child to work on together while discussing the importance of conservation and recycling in our communities. It takes three recyclable aluminum cans and turns them into a nifty model airplane that your child can proudly display.

Things You'll Need

• Three empty aluminum soda cans
• White glue
• Utility scissors
• Ruler
• Black permanent marker
• Box cutter
• Hammer
• Nail
• Small screw
• Small nut

Instructions

1. Rinse your soda pop cans. Measure 1/2 inch from the top of the first can and mark with the marker. Poke a hole through the can on this mark with the box cutter. Use the utility scissors to cut the top off the can by inserting the blade into the hole you made. Discard the top.

2. Measure 2 1/2 inches from the bottom of the second soda and make a mark like on the first can. Poke a hole using the box cutter and use your utility scissors to cut the bottom of the second can off and set it aside.

3. Cut the top and bottom off the third can. Then cut a slit up the body of that can so it opens up. Put on work gloves and use your hands to flatten the can so that it lays flat. Draw a single-blade propeller on the inside of the can with the marker. Draw two wings (make sure they are the size). Draw a tail. Cut these pieces out with your utility scissors and set aside.

4. Cut two horizontal lines on opposite sides of the first can for your wings with the box cutter. You want to have the slits oriented so that the bottom of that can (still attached) is facing toward the back of the airplane. At the end of the can which has been removed, cut a slit on the top wall of the can (also horizontal) for the tail. Place the wing and tail pieces into place and secure them with glue.

5. Hammer a hole into the center of the bottom portion of the second can that you cut off in Step 2. Hammer a hole into the center of the propeller piece. Attach the propeller to the can using the screw and nut. Keep the screw loosened a bit so the propeller will turn.

6. Slide the the two can pieces together (propeller at front, tail at the back) and glue it into place. Allow to dry fully.

Tips & Warnings

• Be cautious working on this project, as the edges of cut aluminum will be sharp and could cause injury.

References

• MSLK Reactions: Green Fashion Glossary
• ASME: Aluminum Can Airplane Challenge
• Aviation Earth: Free Pop Can Airplane