How to Make Objects With Altoid Tins
Altoid tins can be reused in several creative ways. The tins come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Crafters and artists recycle these tins into projects such as robots and mini-shrines. The tins seem to be designed to transport small objects. Safely organize necessary supplies that can be stashed in your purse, or stacked in your desk at work. Make mini-kits from Altoid tins to give as gifts or use as party favors.
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Things You'll Need
- Paint thinner
- Sandpaper
- Paint
- Polymer clay
- Spray glue
- Fabric
- Small objects
Instructions
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Wash and dry the Altoid tin. If the tin has been handled a lot, wash with soap and water to remove any oils that can make it difficult to decorate.
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2
Remove all the existing paint with paint remover and sandpaper if you want a blank slate to start with. Skip this step if you want to keep the original Altoid design.
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3
Decorate the tin. Apply paint while the tin is open, and be careful around the hinges. Alternately, you can cover with a layer of polymer clay. Add polymer clay embellishments such as small balls for polka dots or fashion a small polymer clay handle.
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4
Line the tin with fabric. Cut the material to size. Use spray glue to set in place. Decorative paper can be used instead of fabric.
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Gather small items to place in the tin. For example, it can be a dedicated travel sewing kit. Fill with a pair of miniature scissors, pins, needles and thread. Add safety pins and a tube of super glue in case you do not have time to do a repair on the spot.
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Create an emergency medical kit by preparing a supply of aspirin, antibacterial ointment, alcohol pads, tweezers and bandages.
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Prepare a portable eye care kit. Contact wearers can fill with eye drops and your contact lens case. Alcohol wipes and a small bottle of hand sanitizer can help prepare your hands before touching your eyes. People who wear glasses can make a small eyeglass repair kit with extra screws and mini-screwdriver. Add wipes to clean your glasses and eye drops for irritated, tired eyes.
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Transport your drawing supplies in the tin. Fill with pieces of charcoal and an eraser. Attach to your sketch pad with a large rubber band. Secure the rubber band to the bottom of the tin with hot glue.
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Turn the tin into a travel game box. Paint a tic-tac-toe board on the top of the tin. Play with buttons that have had small magnets hot-glued on the back. Use chalkboard paint for the rest of the tin. Fill with chalk for doodling. A notepad and golf pencils can be placed inside for other games such as hangman.
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Add memories of a special person to make a memorial shrine that can fit on your desk. A photo, miniature items that remind you of the individual and other images can be arranged inside the tin. Decorate the outside to reflect the personality of the person. A whimsical shrine can also be dedicated to a favorite food or activity using the same principles.
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Tips & Warnings
Use goggles and gloves if you plan on cutting your Altoid tin. The edges and metal slivers will be very sharp.
References
- Photo Credit Creative Crop/Digital Vision/Getty Images
