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Upcycling a Metal Can into Winter Scenery

Today, I'm thrilled to share an upcycling project featuring a metal can. We will transform a basic metal can into a beautiful, easy, eco-friendly, winter scene decoration. 

I am excited to participate in the Sustainable Challenge alongside fellow bloggers and share eco-friendly and sustainable craft ideas. I can't wait to share my upcycled craft with all of you. This month's theme is Winter.

metal can winter scenery

Close up of mini truck, mini tree, present and faux snow

Materials such as mini truck, mini tree, paint, and metal can.

Materials you will need
  • Metal can ( I am reusing a smaller cheese can)
  • Mini winter ornaments
  • Twine
  • Acrylic paint
  • Decorative gift tag
  • Hot glue
  • Paintbrush
  • Scissors
  • Optional: Faux winter berries, faux snow powder-if you prefer to use this over the cotton snow.

Applying Acrylic paint to the metal can

First, apply acrylic paint to the can. For my decoration, I chose to paint the can white. After applying each coat of paint, make sure to let it dry. I used two coats of paint for my can.

Paintbrush, metal can, and white acrylic paint
Adding the gift tag 
Next, prepare your gift tag. Remove any decorative ribbon from the tag and cut it to the right size for your can. I adjusted mine so that it would fit perfectly.
Using hot glue or any other adhesive, attach the gift tag to the can.
Mini can, gift tag, and scissors

Decorative gift tag, and painted metal can.Wrapping the twine around the metal can
Then, take twine and apply it around the top of the can with hot glue. I attached the twine while applying the glue.

Collage of metal can with twine

Adding faux snow

Once the twine is attached, add cotton snow to the inside of the can. I chose to use faux cotton snow, which gives a fluffier look to the decoration. However, if you prefer, you can use expanding snow powder. Spread out the cotton snow and add it to the can.
Painted metal can with cotton snow inside
Adding mini decorations

Finally, add mini ornaments to the top of the snow. I used a mini tree, truck, and present, and also cut white berries to set on the snow. Use hot glue to attach each decoration.Collage with painted metal can, and mini ornaments

Mini painted can with winter scenery

Creating a beautiful winter decoration from a single metal can is easy. Remember to reuse items before throwing them away, as there are many possibilities for creating something new.

This decoration can be added to winter-themed decor like a tiered tray, mantel, or centerpiece.

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Pinterest pin showing metal can with winter scenery and text description

You may also enjoy



Be sure to check out the other bloggers participating in the Sustainable Challenge!

Sums of their stories|Upcycled Block Shelf Sitter
Christine's Crafts|DIY Waterless Snow Globes
Purple Hue's and Me|Winter Mittens Door Hanger
Sew Crafty Crochet|Crochet Snowman Ornament
Old Rock Farmhouse|Friendsma Fizzy Soaking Salt


Comments

  1. This is so cute and so adaptable. I need to look what cans I have and what cute items I can add to the top! Thanks for sharing.

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    1. Christine, thank you. I'm happy to hear that you enjoyed this craft. 😊

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  2. How adorable, Stephanie! And what a fabulous idea! I don't think I've ever seen a craft like this before. Painting the can white really added a serene and calming overall look. And adding the gift tag was the "icing on the cake!" It all looks very unique and appealing!

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    Replies
    1. Gail, thank you. Your comment made me smile. I'm so happy to hear that you enjoyed this craft. It was such a fun craft to work on. And I agree, the white paint really did create that serene and calming look. These craft challenges are so much fun! I appreciate you visiting.

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  3. I have a tin that looks like a Christmas village that would be perfect for this craft. I love that I can recreate a scene that I love or envision a new one!

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    1. Terri, yes there are so many possibilities! I love creating new crafts with materials around the house.

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  4. Your winter scene is beautiful! I love the truck and glittery present! You've really transformed the metal can into something really lovely.

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    1. Aw, thank you so much. I appreciate your kind words. It was such a fun craft. I'm happy to hear that you enjoyed my metal can makeover. :)

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  5. I love everything about this! It could be tucked into any winter vignette! Sharing on FB -Marci @ Old Rock Farmhouse

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    1. Marci, thank you so much. 😊 I'm happy to hear that you enjoyed this craft.

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  6. The Red Truck theme is my favorite and this is so cute!

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  7. So cute! I love upcycling and I love those trucks!

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  8. What a cute upcycled project! So festive! I love your step-by-step instructions, too! Can't wait to give this a try! Pinning!

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    1. Laura, thank you so much. I appreciate it. It's super easy to create.

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  9. That turned out so pretty, love it. Thanks so much for linking up at the #UnlimitedLinkParty 142. Pinned.

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    1. Dee, thank you so much. 😊 I always appreciate you visiting.

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  10. This is so cool!! I love a red truck in the snow scene!!

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  11. This is darling. What a sweet look! Thanks for sharing this post at the Will Blog for Comments #18 linkup. Hope to see you next time, too.

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  12. So cute and one can make lots of variations on the theme.
    Thank you for visiting and sharing your links with us at SSPS #291. See you again on Monday, January 8th, 2024.

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  13. CONGRATS Stephanie! Your post is FEATURED at the #UnlimitedLinkParty 143!

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  14. Your can upcycle idea is adorable! Thanks for sharing at the #HomeMattersParty.

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  15. Little red truck is my favorite! This is so pretty.
    Thanks so much for sharing this sustainable diy with Sweet Tea & Friends this month my friend.

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  16. This is so cute and creative. I love how this turned out.

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  17. Great Project Stephanie. This post will be a feature this week for our party. #HomeMattersParty

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    1. Donna, thank you so much! I appreciate it. :)

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  18. This is so lovely. I always love repurposing ordinary things into special ones. This definitely is. Featuring when my party opens!

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    Replies
    1. Carol, aw, thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed this craft idea. I love reusing and repurposing everyday items. It's amazing what we can create by reusing them. Thank you for visiting. I appreciate your kindness.

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