This
project is a great idea for inexpensively decorating for outdoor parties,
holidays, or “just because”. The steps are easy to follow and simple
to complete and you likely have most everything you need in your home right
now!
JUST A TIP: You don’t have to be an
artist to create a decorative luminary, be resourceful and look at available
stencils at you local craft and hobby store!
Materials you will need:
1 old metal coffee can in any size you
want
Crafting paint (available at local crafting and
discount retail stores)
Stencils (optional-available at your local
crafting store)
Tools you will need:
Hammer and nails
Can opener
To get started: Follow these easy
“how-to steps” to complete this crafting project. In no time at all
you will be admiring your own hand made luminary and thinking about the next
luminary you plan to make!
Thoroughly clean out your coffee can of any
residue.
Remove the bottom of the coffee can (as well as
the top) with your can opener. (You do not have to remove the bottom of
the can, though for this project the bottom was removed.)
Place the coffee can on a steady surface and
using a large nail, hammer holes into the can in a random pattern. Continue
to make holes over the entire surface of the coffee can all of the way around.
Once you are satisfied with the number of holes
in you can, it is time to begin painting!
Paint the entire surface of the can first and
let this coat of paint dry. You may want to use spray paint to coat the
can; it is quite a bit easier, and saves on time.
After the first coat of paint dries you can
begin to paint on your decorative touches. For this portion of the
crafting project you may opt to use stencils to create the design on the
luminary. There are several stencils available and many are holiday
themed so you can create exactly what you want! NOTE: You don’t
have to paint additional touches to the can, you can let your “nail
holes” be the “star” of the project (see “ADDITIONAL TIPS” section).
Once the paint of your decorative touches is
dry, you may choose to add a coat of clear sealer. NOTE: The sealer is
not really necessary unless you are going to be using the luminary outdoors
where it won’t be protected from the weather.
Place a candle inside your luminary and light
it. You will be amazed at how beautiful your completed luminary
craft is. The soft glow if the candle will surly set any mood and is a
enchanting addition any home or patio decor.
ADDITIONAL TIPS:
Instead of nailing the holes in a random
pattern around the can, create a pattern such as a large star with several
small stars around it. This will look amazing once the candle is
lighted!
Make a “collection” of luminaries by using
different size coffee cans and displaying the
finished projects in a cluster.
Use small soup cans to create cute table top
decor for outdoor parties or bar-b-ques.
Create a Jack-o Lantern that will last for
years! Paint your coffee can orange and nail in your Jack-o-Lantern’s
face!
© Rubyglen.com
2003
