An empty tin can gets new life as a light in this project that reuses what otherwise might have been tossed in recycling or the garbage. This is a very simple-looking light, so it fits with most decor and (with the exception of humid areas such as the bathroom) can be placed in any room with an outlet.
If you aren't enamored of the natural twine color, use colored jute or raffia ribbon instead. Just make sure any wrap is securely glued so it does not fall down and connect with the bulb to create a fire hazard. Also be careful around the can's cut and drilled edges as they are sharp.
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Materials
- Clean, dry tin can without label and top lid, 3-1/4 inches in diameter
- T-square
- Marker
- 2 medium C-clamps
- Handheld drill
- Bi-metal arbored hole saw, 1-1/4-inch
- Thin twine
- Hot glue gun
- Hot glue sticks
- Scissors
- Cord pendant light with light bulb
- Clean, dry tin can without label and top lid, 3-1/4 inches in diameter
- T-square
- Marker
- 2 medium C-clamps
- Handheld drill
- Bi-metal arbored hole saw, 1-1/4-inch
- Thin twine
- Hot glue gun
- Hot glue sticks
- Scissors
- Cord pendant light with light bulb
DIY Everywhere
Instructions
1. Place the can upside down on a work surface. Measure across the bottom vertically and horizontally to find the center point and mark it.
1. Place the can upside down on a work surface. Measure across the bottom vertically and horizontally to find the center point and mark it.
2. Attach the arbored hole saw to the drill. Clamp the can (still upside down) in two places to the work surface.
3. Line up the drill with the center point and drill the hole. Recycle or discard the cutout.
4. Glue the twine around the can's indented ridges. Trim the excess. If there are no ridges, apply the twine around the center of the can, 1 inch in from the top and bottom.
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5. Feed the pendant cord up through the can until the socket reaches the top. Hang where desired.