Tin can lanterns are a classic summer craft and were one of the activities on our “Old School” Summer Bucket List that our kids had never seen before. I haven’t made one since I was at summer camp so I thought it was the perfect activity to do this summer.
How to Make Tin Can Lanterns
Tin can lanterns aren’t hard to make, but they definitely do require adult supervision and assistance. We didn’t need a lot of supplies and I love that we are able to upcycle cans that would have otherwise gone into the recycling bin.
1. Tin cans (that have been cleaned and don’t have any sharp edges)
2. Permanent marker
3. Hammer and nail
4. Protective eye gear
5. Tea light or votive candles
Once we had all of our supplies ready the kids designed their lanterns by making dots with the marker on the outside of the cans. We talked about how the light would shine through wherever the dots were.
Once the kids were happy with their designs, my husband used a hammer and nail to poke holes through the can. Older kids could help with this step if they are properly supervised.
Then once it got dark we put candles inside and admired our new tin can lanterns!
Make sure to check out the projects from the other camp counselors too!
DIY Recycled Playhouse Tent from Inspired by Family
{DIY Tutorial} Crate Lemonade Stand for Kids from See Vanessa Craft
DIY Homemade Sparkling Beads from Mama Miss
Eric VanRaepenbusch says
July 8, 2013 at 7:22 pmThese are very cool and easy to make! Pinning!
Megan Sheakoski says
July 9, 2013 at 6:32 pmThanks Eric! They kids love them!
Nikki says
July 18, 2013 at 9:44 amI have seen things similar to these before… one GREAT tip! To make sure that the cans keep their shape when you are poking the holes fill with water and freeze overnight the ice inside will stop the cans from bending when you hammer the nail in 🙂 Then just run under warm water to melt and your tin lantern is ready!
Megan Sheakoski says
July 18, 2013 at 10:25 amNikki what a smart idea!!!! Thank you so much for sharing!
latisha says
December 25, 2015 at 7:33 pmdo you turn the bottom of the can toward the ceiling for better effects? and if so do you poke holes in that too?
Megan Sheakoski says
December 30, 2015 at 10:58 amNo we put the bottom on the bottom, but I think flipping it over is an AWESOME idea!!!!!!! I’d definitely poke holes in it. I bet it would be really cool!