Tin cans are one of my favorite recycled materials to use for kids’ craft projects. These top 5 tin can crafts for kids are easy-to-make and cheap, too! They are perfect for teachers to use as classroom projects.
The first thing you will need for these tin can crafts is a smooth-edge (or safe edge) can opener. These nifty kitchen tools open cans without leaving sharp edges on the can or lid. I bought mine at a Pampered Chef party but you can find them in most kitchenware departments of stores.
#1 – Pencil holder
You can use any size tin can to make a pencil holder. Have kids cut random shapes of colorful pictures from old magazines. Once they have a pile of pictures, have them glue them to the sides of the tin can using white glue. Let dry completely. For a more durable finish you can cover with Modge Podge or a mixture of white glue and water. When dry, kids can fill with their pencils and enjoy!
#2 – Wind chimes
For this craft project, collect five or six different sizes of can lids. Take the kids on a nature walk and look for things that can be glued to their lids. They can make designs on the lids by gluing on leaves, sticks, ferns, etc. Punch a hole through each lid using a hammer and nail. Attach a length of yarn to each lid and tie onto a branch to hang. Finish by tying a piece of yarn to each end of the branch so kids can hang their wind chimes.
#3 – Treasure ‘chest’
Have the kids paint a tuna fish can and lid. Glue a large bead to the top of the lid. Kids can decorate their treasure ‘chest’ with stickers, magazines pictures, yarn designs, or paint. This is a great Mother’s Day craft project.
#4 – Candleholder
Kids can make beautiful votive candleholders out of small cans. Mushroom cans work well for this craft project. Have kids coat the outside of the can with white glue. While the glue is still wet, have them wrap yarn around the can until it is completely covered. Leave the top edge of the can uncovered to reduce the risk of fire.
#5 – Christmas or Hanukkah ornaments
Kids can make beautiful Christmas or Hanukkah ornaments for their loved ones with tin can lids. Have them glue one of their school pictures to the center of one side of the lid using white glue. Next, glue a length of artificial pine bough around the edge of the lid. Cut a six inch piece of narrow red ribbon or yarn to use as a hanger. Glue it between the back side of the lid and a circle of red felt (blue felt for Hanukkah) cut to cover the lid. Parents and grandparents will love this thoughtful gift!
Have fun crafting with kids!
Find more kids’ craft projects on author’s profile.
Source:
Personal experience
