Tin Flashing Crafts

Tin is non-magnetic.

Tin flashing is a sheet of metal with tin coating. Pure tin is costly but fairly corrosive-resistant, so a thin layer is added over other metals to help them hold up to weather conditions. Tin flashing is available in a range of thicknesses at home improvement stores but a thin sheet is easier to cut and shape for crafts.

Preparation

Create paper templates in the shapes you need to make a tin flashing craft. Tape the template to the tin flashing sheet and use a pencil to lightly trace around the template. Tin flashing is sharp, especially after it is cut. Use tin snips while wearing durable leather gloves to cut it into smaller, more manageable pieces. A sturdy pair of tin snips is worth the investment so your cuts have clean edges.

Candle Holders

Tin is noncombustible, which means it will not catch fire, making it suitable for candle holders and covers. A tin flashing candle cover needs holes throughout so the light can shine through. Hammer small nails through the tin flashing in a pattern and remove them. Add holes along both side edges of the flashing so when you roll the metal into a cylinder, you can lace wire through the holes to hold the tin flashing candle cover together.

Ornaments

Add holes to tin ornaments using the nail and hammer method, or create designs by imprinting images. Lightly tapping nails into the flashing without piercing it leaves an indentation. One way to add color is to glue on rhinestones or string beads. Super glue works well for adhering the rhinestones and thin picture wire fits through large beads and secures tightly behind the tin ornament. Add basic string or twine to hang the ornament.

Memory Board

A tin flashing memory board provides a sleek surface for displaying daily reminders, pictures and general mementos. Cut a square in the size you want and add a frame over or around the tin flashing piece because the edges are sharp. Super glue or hot glue stationary clips for a modern aesthetic or wood clothespins for a rustic appeal. Painting a section with chalkboard paint allows you to add hand-written messages.

References

• U.S. General Services Administration Historic Preservation Technical Procedures: Tin: Characteristics, Uses and Problems
• The Family Handyman: How to Use Tin Snips to Cut Sheet Metal