Looking for a way to get inexpensive custom tableware decor? Take a look at this gorgeous centerpiece made with recycled tin cans and napkins. I recently fell in love with these cute napkins and wished I could find more accessories to match the napkins. As I was planning a Spring tablescape for my screened porch, I decided to try covering some tin cans with extra napkins.
Because I’ve always been a waste not kind of girl. I’m always saving tin cans to hold my paintbrushes, pens, and flowers. They are the perfect size, and I can always paint or stencil them.
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How To Recycle Tin Cans
I began to save tin cans to hold paintbrushes and other craft supplies in my shop.
However, I quickly decided they needed to be dressed up a bit and began to paint them.
That led to other ideas for recycling tin cans like these copper candleholders.
Decorating with free decor can be addictive.
Supplies
This project worked so well that I got carried away and covered several tin cans. Here are the steps and materials I used.
- Chalk Paint
- Decorative Napkins
- Mod Podge
- Paint Brush
- Clean Tin Can
When I realized I wanted to cover several can, I decided to use Rust-oleum Chalk Paint spray to speed up the painting process. You just need to paint the exterior with a fast coat of paint. If you want your interior painted, you may need two coats for the inside finish.
Because you need to cut the napkin to the height of your can and you need it to be even across, I use a ruler to mark a straight line. Then cut the napkin along the line.
Most napkins are three ply. You will want to only apply the top layer.
Separate the napkin layers by applying tape to the back layers and gently pulling them apart.
Once your paint is dry, apply a very thin layer of mod podge to the exterior of the can. Apply to all areas you want to adhere to the napkin.
Being careful to keep the napkin straight, gently press it around the tin can.
Protect your Recycle Tin Cans
After the mod podge napkin is dry, then gently apply another thin coat of mod podge to the exterior of the napkin to seal. Note: you may see bubbles form. Don’t panic, these will smooth out once the piece is dry. Just be careful to use a light coat and move on. Over rubbing or brushing, while applying this coat, can cause the napkin to rip .
This is a large tuna can. I spray painted the interior with 2 coats of Linen Chalk Paint.
Recycled Tin Cans Centerpiece
These were just so cute! So I decided to add glass hurricane chimney’s and white candles to the tuna cans. I used a soup can to hold faux stems that mimic the flowers on the thrift store dishes.
What an inexpensive way to use recycled materials for a gorgeous centerpiece
This project was so quick and easy, I couldn’t stop!. Here is my new brush holder. See how I added
This Recycle Tin Cans project can be used for any season by purchasing seasonal napkins. There are so many options.
Don’t you just love a free project? See the 10 Tips for Free Fall Decorating and this Rusty Tin Can wreath for Fall.
Other Napkin Decoupage Projects
- A Distressed Decoupage Lamp
- Updated Thrift Store Ginger Jar
- Chinoiserie Blue and White Napkin Rings DIY
- Recycle Tin Can Decoupage Decor
- How To Make A DIY Decorative Box
- Decoupage Eggs for Easter
- Napkin Decoupage Christmas Ornaments
- Decoupage Coasters for Gift Ideas
- Decoupage Dollar Tree Pumpkins
- No-Wrinkle Napkin Lampshade Makeover
Thanks for stopping by.
I hope this will inspire you to try think outside the box when planning your home decor. If you have any questions, please ask me here. I appreciate all comments. Be sure to subscribe to my blog, so you don’t miss any DIY projects.
Thanks so much for stopping by.
Susan
Tuesday 5th of September 2023
Hello, Rachel, Love the upcycle reusing of cans idea! I cannot see the pewter-looking bases under the cans in the discussion. They add so much. Was this something you had or made, too? I think the cans needed something to elevate them to be in proportion with the shades, so I wanted to know what you used, please.
Rachel
Wednesday 6th of September 2023
Susan, thank you! Those are just some small pewter bowls that I turned upside down to raise the candleholders. You could also use a pillar size candlestick to elevate them.
Wendy McMonigle
Wednesday 29th of June 2022
This is so adorable Rachel and I love how they match your plates.
Rachel
Thursday 30th of June 2022
Wendy, I'm so glad you liked this.
Debbie
Wednesday 29th of June 2022
Omg this table is beautiful I love the yellow, lemons, placemats in green just love this
Rachel
Wednesday 29th of June 2022
Debbie, I'm so glad you liked this table. It was so fun to do.
Renae
Wednesday 29th of June 2022
Very creative. They look so cute. You are definitely the queen of tin can art. Hugs to you, my friend
Rachel
Wednesday 29th of June 2022
Renae, Thanks. You know I love free.
Mary from Life at Bella Terra
Wednesday 29th of June 2022
Rachel, those tuna fish cans are so cute! What a great idea! Now you’ve got me thinking about this….
Rachel
Wednesday 29th of June 2022
Mary, Thanks