DIY Noise Makers

Recycle your old soda cans into noisy noisemakers.

Making your own noisemaker is a very simple way to keep kids busy, support your favorite sports team or ring in the new year. Noisemakers are used to create aural havoc when yelling and screaming just isn't enough. They are easily adaptable to different colors, and inexpensive enough that you can make several different versions to take with you to various events. Noisemakers are very easy to create, often with materials that you already have lying around the house. This is a great project for kids.

Things You'll Need

• Aluminum soda can
• Small metal objects such as pennies, nuts and bolts
• Scissors
• Cardboard
• Craft glue
• Masking tape
• Acrylic or spray paint

Instructions

1. Trace the top of the can onto the piece of cardboard. Cut out the cardboard and trim the edges so it will fit neatly inside the lip of the aluminum can. Set the cardboard aside.

2. Decorate the cardboard with your favorite team colors, phrases or decorations.

3. Fill the can one-fourth of the way full with the small pieces of metal. For noisemakers that aren't quite as noisy, you can use beans instead.

4. Glue the top of the cardboard onto the can. Reinforce the sides if necessary with some of the masking tape. Allow the glue to dry completely before painting. Test shake the can a few times to make sure the cardboard is going to hold. If it looks like it needs some more reinforcement, repeat steps 1 and 2.

5. Paint the outside of the can with your favorite colors. You can decorate it for any sports team with acrylic paints. If you are not artistic, you can use a stencil to put words or phrases on the can. Allow the can to completely dry before continuing.

Tips & Warnings

• Depending on the type of masking tape you use, the paint could be discolored once it dries. To fix this, use a light colored spray paint and spray the whole can, making sure that the tape and cardboard are completely covered. Once it dries, then use the acrylic (or more spray paint) to decorate.

References

• Cool-Kids-Craft-Ideas.com: Noise Maker Crafts for Kids