You never go wrong when you give someone a gift of money for a birthday, graduation or another special occasion, but if you’d like to give something a little more impressive, why not gift a money dispenser? You can easily make the dispenser then fill it with as much – or as little – money as you want. The recipient of the money dispenser will never forget the unusual gift!
Start the project by using a cardboard can. Ones that are short, and a few inches in diameter, are ideal. These types of cans are usually found containing Doritos, Fritos or other chips. You’ll also find some that contain coffee. The lidded containers are perfect for making a money dispenser. After emptying the can take a damp cloth and wipe out the inside.
Decorate the can by wrapping paper or cloth around the outside. Fabric or paper with a money theme works great. You’ll find money-theme papers in the scrapbook section at a craft store. Another option is to attach any type of paper then place coin stickers all over the can. Or, buy fake coins and glue them onto the can. Before gluing or sticking anything onto the outside of the can, though, cut a slit on one side. The slit should be slighty longer than the width of a dollar bill. Center the slit on the can so that there is as much space above the slit as there is below it. Glue or affix any decorations you want but just don’t cover the slit. Paper or fabric, of course, should be attached to the can before making the slit.
Lay the money out that you want to use for the dispenser. Decide how much money you want to give and in what denominations. Lay the bills on a table, in front of you, so that they are butted together, short end to short end. Make sure all the bills are face-down and are all turned the same way. Use a piece of narrow tape down the seam of each set of bills to attach one to another. When you’re finished you should have a long string of bills.
Begin rolling the bills from one end to the other. They don’t have to be rolled really tight unless they are lots of them. After you’ve finished the roll place it inside the can. Reach in and slide the first bill through the slit in the can. Pull it out just an inch or so and leave it slightly protruding from the can. Place the lid on the can and give the gift.
If you want, you can decorate the can lid as well. Cut a circle of cloth or paper to match the can itself or to coordinate with the can. Glue a narrow piece of ruffled cloth, ribbon or roping around the edge of the lid. The recipient of the gift can pull money out of the can and watch it keep on coming! You can even make a dispenser that features other things besides money, like coupons, chore cards, love notes and more. The finished gift is suitable for many occasions and for man, woman or child.
