Learn How To Make Can Luminaries

Traditional luminaries are composed of the simplest of materials: a brown paper bag, a handful of sand, and a candle combine to form a simple lantern. This project offers a new take on this simple idea.

If you love the idea of luminaries, but worry about their safety around pets and kids, or would like a more permanent version, un-canny luminaries are for you. Plus, these luminaries, unlike the traditional ones, can be hung (with care) from porch, patio, or even trees.

The charm of traditional luminaries comes partly from the clever use of humble materials.

If you choose plastic over paper at the grocers, it is unlikely you have got a stash of paper bags on hand. But whether it is mandarin oranges or green beans, chances are you have got a pantry stocked with canned goods.

Serve up their contents, saving the cans as you go. When you have accumulated a half dozen or so, it is time to get started.

Prepare for this project several days before you plan to use your tin lanterns. You need to allow a day to allow the water-filled cans to freeze solid. Don't try skipping this step. It is nearly impossible to punch holes into an empty can. The ice supports the can as you pound into it and gives you something to pound into as well.

The designs you will punch into the cans should be simple and geometric, at least until you become accustomed to the process. You may want to thoroughly dry the outside of the can and use a marker to outline your design: the spray paint you will apply later will cover the marker lines. It is really easy, though, to "eyeball" it: make four equally spaced punches around the middle of the can, connect the "dots" with more punches to make a zigzag line, etc. The ridges in the can be used as measuring points as well.

These luminaries will add a festive touch to your next summer party. With temperatures in the 90s, it is hard to believe that fall, and with it Halloween, will be here before you know it. With different motifs and a can each of orange and black spray paint, you will enjoy making more luminaries for Halloween.

More canned vegetables, anyone?

You Will Need

Fruit or vegetable cans
Hammer
Awl or large nail
Spray paint various colors, satin finish
Wire for hangers
Votive Candles
Glass votive candle cups, folded towel, baggies, rubber bands

You Will Need To Do

Fill clean, empty cans with water. Freeze overnight or until solid.

Cover open end of can with baggie. Close tightly with rubber bad around top of can. This will keep most of the ice inside the can as you work.

Lay can on folded towel on work surface. Use hammer and awl to punch holes into can. Don't forget to punch two holes for the hanger at the top edge of the can. The towel cushions the can and absorbs whatever melted ice will escape as you work.

When punched design is complete, run hot water into can to melt remaining ice. The can's bottom may have bulged out from the expansion of the water as it froze. If this occurred, simply invert the can on the folded towel and use the hammer to pound the end flat.

Make sure the can is completely dry, then spray paint inside and outside. Don't forget the bottom of the can if you will be hanging it. Remember that several light coats are better than one or two heavy ones.

Cut a piece of sturdy wire, or a piece of a wire coat hanger, about 18 inches long. Twist part of it around a pencil, to create a curly effect. Bend ends up to secure handle to can. Insert handles into holes.

Insert candle in glass cup, then place glass cup into can. Use fireplace matches to light.