Next time you open a can of food – be it beans, chopped tomatoes or even soup – consider reusing the tin, rather than throwing it away.
One thing you can do is repurpose it into a mini lantern. You’ll need some paint or spray paint (colour of your choice, but make sure it’s flame-retardant), a nail and hammer, bale wire and pliers.
First, decide on your chosen design – remember that whatever pattern you choose will be what the light shines through. You can create random perforations, specific shapes or even spell out your initials. Use the hammer and nail to create the design by poking holes into the can. You’ll also need a hole on either side of the top of the can where the handle will go.
Next, cut the bale wire to the length of your preference to use for the handle. Paint the can and handle, and leave to dry. Once dry, thread the wire through each of the holes at the top. Use the pliers to curl each end to prevent the wire from slipping out.
You can then place tea lights into the can. The new lanterns can be dotted around your garden, on your patio or along the walkway leading up to your front door.
